By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Let’s face it, cold weather does not do our skin any favors! My skin fluctuates between dry and oily, and who knew there was such a thing as beard dandruff?! So, during the colder months, I change my skincare routine to both build a better barrier against the cold and to prevent any skin peeves.
Wash Gently
I actually enjoy washing my face, but if overdone, it can strip my skin of natural oils that build an effective barrier against the cold. Use a non-stripping and soap-free cleanser instead.
Ren Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk, $28
Moisture Aplenty
When the humidity drops, your skin needs a moisture boost to keep its balance. Without it, your skin can alternate between parchment dry and oily because when dried out your skin will (over)produce natural oils to counter dry conditions.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, $28
See a Serum
If you really want to change the condition of your skin, you need a serum – a concentrated extract of skin-loving ingredients that will penetrate deeper into the skin. In the wintertime, an antioxidant serum can be helpful to soothe inflammation in the skin caused by the colder temps.
Rustic Maka Balance Antioxidant Facial Serum, $25
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Moisturize Your Beard
Or rather, the skin beneath your facial hair. Excess moisture and dryness can wreak havoc on the skin and cause the not so cute condition beard dandruff. Wash with a cleanser (never shampoo!), and rub some moisturizer in your beard (yes, you can use your regular cream).
Murdock London Beard Moisturizer, $32
Take Care Your Scalp
Your scalp can get itchy and irritated because of the cold, so to prevent a case of dandruff, treat your hair and scalp with soothing and moisturizing hair products.
Yes To Tea Tree & Sage Calming Scalp Relief
Read Your Lips
Chapped lips are a winter thing, but you can stay ahead by using a lip balm a couple of times a day. Avoid lip balms containing Petrolatum or mineral oil as they only cover up but don’t actually hydrate. Instead, go for naturals like beeswax, almond oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, shea butter, or calendula oil.
Bodyceuticals Lip Balm Organic Calendula & Dark Chocolate, $6