Winter in Michigan. While it’s absolutely beautiful it can also mean cold dry days that are harsh on our skin and bodies. Constant hand washing and dryness in our homes from running the heat can make us feel uncomfortable in our skin but thankfully there’s a fix for that! We are so excited to partner with Douglas J Salon and Medspa to bring you expert advice on tackling dry winter skin! Read on below to find out the ways their team loves to support skin in these winter months.
What Causes our Skin to be so DRY in the Winter?
A combination of cold outdoor air, low humidity levels, and indoor heating systems, all of which strip moisture from the hair, skin, and nails can cause us to experience dryness. Add in frequent hand washing, hot showers, and wind exposure and it can cause the dryness to be worse. Winter weather has lower humidity levels, which means there is less moisture in the air to hydrate our skin and hair. Cold air constricts blood vessels and reduces circulation, which can make the skin appear dull and less radiant. Indoor heating removes moisture from the air, creating a double hit of dryness. Read on for how we’re tackling dry winter skin this season.
What are simple everyday changes Moms can make for tackling dry winter skin?
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air at home
- Switch to heavier, more hydrating creams and oils for skin and hair
- Reduce the temperature of showers to avoid stripping natural oils
- Wear gloves outdoors and while washing dishes to protect hands
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Let’s Talk Hair Care in the Winter
One thing we HATE in the winter is how dry and staticky our hair can get from lack of moisture. It’s always top of our mind to protect our hair during these months so how can busy moms protect their hair from the effects of cold weather and indoor heating?
- Use a leave-in conditioner or hair mask once a week to replenish lost moisture
- Avoid over-washing hair, which can strip natural oils; aim for 2-3 times per week
- Use heat styling tools sparingly and apply a heat protectant when using heat on
your hair
What can we do with our kiddos to combat the dryness and keep their hair healthy too?
- Use a detangling spray to make combing easier and less stressful
- Apply a small amount a leave-in conditioner to the ends of their hair
- Braid hair before bedtime or under winter hats to minimize tangles
Are there any professional moisturizing treatments you’d recommend for hair and scalp?
To add moisture to the hair we recommend the Aveda Nutriplenish Intensive
Hydrating Treatment. It can be added on to any hair service and infuses hair with
five times the hydration compared to untreated hair, making it ideal for those
experiencing dryness and lack of shine.
To address a dry scalp we recommend the Aveda Scalp Solutions Professional
Treatment. This service targets hydration, nourishment, and softening of the
scalp to alleviate dryness and can be added to any hair service.
Our Favorite Hair Care Products for Moisture:
- Our favorite detangling heat protectant: Davines Oi All in One Milk – hydrating
spray that detangles, controls frizz, protects from heat and adds shine and
softness. - Our favorite at home Masque: Nutriplenish Treatment Masque – this at home
masque deeply nourishes and restores hair with nutrient-infused superfood
ingredients like pomegranate seed oil, mango butter and coconut oil. - Our favorite moisturizing hair oil: Back of Bottle (BOB) Hi-Hydrating Moisturizing
Oil – ultra-lightweight moisturizing oil that doesn’t weigh hair down but penetrates
the hair cuticle for deep, hydrating moisture.
Let’s Talk Skin Care in the Winter
Without proper care, skin in the winter can become painful for us and our kids. Taking care of it is essential so that we can all be more comfortable because no one wants dry hands or chapped lips! Let’s keep tackling dry winter skin with more tips!
What are your top recommendations for keeping skin hydrated throughout the winter?
- Switch to a thicker moisturizer during the cold/dry months
- Apply lotion immediately after bathing to lock in moisture
- Avoid harsh soaps and opt for gentle cleansers
- Look for a product with Hyaluronic Acid for maximum skin hydration and
plumping
How important is SPF in the winter months, and what type would you recommend?
SPF is essential year-round because UV rays can penetrate through clouds and reflect
off snow. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on exposed areas, even
in winter. Just because you can’t see the sun doesn’t mean it’s not there.
Are there any treatments you’d recommend addressing dryness for facial skin?
- Our standard facial is always a great way to relax while infusing your skin with
moisture. We use Aveda, PCA and Comfort Zone skincare products in our spa so
the facial masques can be tailored to your individual skin needs. - For a deeper clean and more intense moisture we recommend a HydraFacial –
this treatment utilizes boosters and serums that are packed with high performing
ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which attract and retain moisture in the skin.
HydraFacials can help strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, which is critical for
retaining moisture. A healthier barrier means less water loss and more lasting
hydration. - We also know skincare can be overwhelming! That’s why we offer free skin care
consultations to talk about the best treatments and products to get you the skin
you dream of while working within your budget.
Our Favorite Skin Care Products for Moisture:
- Our favorite Hyaluronic Acid Serum: PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum –
the non-negotiable skin-care step for everyone seeking healthy, beautiful and
plumper skin - Our favorite nighttime facial skin cream: PCA Skin Collagen Hydrator – a rich
facial moisturizer that hydrates and firms dry and maturing skin. Can also be
added to your morning skin routine if added moisture is needed - Our favorite at home facial masque: Aveda Botanical Kinetics Intense Hydrating
Masque – an Oil-free masque that hydrates and provides cool, soothing relief
from dryness and exposure to the elements
Let’s Talk Nail Care in the Winter
Our hands take most of the brunt of winter, from the extra hand washing, to the exposure to the cold, it’s so important to keep them healthy so you can keep doing all the things you do as a Mom!
What are the best ways to keep nails strong and healthy in the winter?
- Apply a moisturizing oil daily to prevent cracking
- Use gloves while cleaning or washing dishes to avoid drying out nails
- Keep nails trimmed and smooth to prevent splitting
Are there any quick remedies for dry, cracked hands that work for moms on the go?
- Keep a travel-sized hand cream in your bag and apply it frequently
- Use overnight hand masks with a thicker consistency and seal it in with cotton
gloves - Avoid hand sanitizers with high alcohol content; opt for moisturizing versions
instead - Add on a warm paraffin treatment at your next manicure or pedicure appointment
to seal in the moisture
Are there any treatments you’d recommend for nails and cuticles?
Manicures and pedicures are key to maintaining soft, smooth skin on your hands and
feet, especially in the harsh winter months. Our Soften and Soothe Paraffin treatment
can be added to any nail service. The warm paraffin wax helps open pores and allows
moisturizing oils to penetrate deeply and as the wax hardens it seals the moisture into
the skin.
Our Favorite Hand/Body Care Products for Moisture:
- Our favorite Hand Crème: Hand Relief Moisturizing Crème – a rich hand crème
that intensely moisturizes, leaving hands feeling soft and smooth. It’s also
available in a purse size to keep hands moisturized on the go. - Our Favorite all-purpose Oil: Aveda Beautifying Composition Oil – this nourishing
oil can be used for the body, bath and scalp and is a great addition to any lotion
to increase moisture. It makes an excellent bath additive, massage oil and is
even safe for removing eye makeup. - Our Favorite Shower Cream: Comfort Zone Tranquility Shower Cream – this
shower cream gently cleanses while leaving the skin remarkably hydrated and
soft. The essential oils leave a soft and delicate scent, suitable for all skin types.
You don’t have to suffer this winter. If you need help picking out the perfect product or treatment to keep your skin and hair looking healthy and hydrated this winter head to Douglas J Salon and Medspa. Their team will find the perfect treatment for you and you’ll be feeling so good!
