The temperature may fluctuate, but even Angelenos need to protect their skin in the winter months. Here are your winterizing essentials straight from the experts.
Hydrate!
Cool weather leads to dry skin, a beauty issue that doesn’t discriminate. Skin care expert and master esthetician Olga Lorencin, of Kinara Skin Care Clinic & Spa, recommends adding a lightweight hydrator to your daily regimen. A hydrating toner or serum rich in hyaluronic acid—such as SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel—can boost your moisture levels without adding unnecessary bulk, which can lead to dull looking skin.
Watch Your Diet
You are what you eat doesn’t only apply to your waistline. Vance Soto, President of OLEHENRIKSEN FACE/BODY SPA in West Hollywood, says one of the most common winter-related skin issues his clients report are breakouts. And while airplane air certainly doesn’t help matters, Soto notes the true culprit is an upset in the PH balance often due to holiday diets. So now that we’re into the new year, cut back on the sugars and alcohol and get that natural glow back.
Don’t Forget The Sunblock
“Once that bikini is put away, people seem to forget that big round burst of flames in the sky known as the sun can still cause damage,” Soto says. “The sun lights up the universe, so keep that SPF 50 handy year round.”
Pack Slightly More Lightly
If you plan to escape L.A.’s faux winter and are heading to truly colder climates, our experts unanimously agree to prepare early and often! Start doubling up on your moisturizer a few days before departing for your chilly destination, and don’t be afraid to add a little oil to the mix. OLEHENRIKSEN Pure Truth Youth Activating Oil, made from 100 percent concentrated rose hips oil, adds moisture while activating the skin’s natural reparative ability. If you plan on venturing out into the elements for some winter sporting, consider packing Kinara’s Reparative Nutrient Serum, which, unlike water-based products, won’t freeze on your skin.
Ditch Your Scrub
Mechanical exfoliation and winter-dry skin isn’t a great combination. During the cooler months, consider switching your scrub and opt for a gentle retinol, daily AHA serum or an at-home peel that hydrates while refining. iS Clinical’s Active Serum is an industry favorite. Lorencin also stresses finding the right cleanser is key, and recommends Perricone MD Nutritive Cleanser for a gentle but effective wash.
When All Else Fails, Head To The Spa
At-home beautification is important, but never underestimate the power of a truly great facial. Soto recommends the Rejuvenate Oxygen Facial at OLEHENRIKSEN FACE BODY SPA, a deeply hydrating treatment using hyaluronic acid. “ It's a proprietary blend to rejuvenate, restore and repair the skin of all the environmental elements,” Soto adds. “Consider your skin flawless after this celebrity favorite.”
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