Winter Skincare in Texas & Louisiana
At Sanova Dermatology, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier skin care through a combination of experience, education, and advanced technology. Our team of highly experienced physicians are dedicated to providing winter skin treatment. We have convenient locations across Texas, including Houston, Pflugerville, Austin, Bee Cave, and Dripping Springs. We also serve Louisiana with locations in Metairie, Old Metairie, Uptown New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
During the winter, the cold and dry weather can take a toll on your skin. Your skin needs a better protective barrier to guard it from these harsher conditions and retain its moisture. Oil-based and thicker creams are great for this purpose. Keep in mind not all oil-based moisturizers clog pores, so don’t be afraid of using a heavier preparation during these months. Alpha hydroxyl acids (AHAs) are great for this, too, as they help retain moisture while also providing a supplement of antioxidants. In some instances, decreasing the use or frequency of your retinoid or retinols during the winter months is advisable, as skin is already prone to becoming more sensitive and fragile during this time.
What is “winter itch”?
During wintertime, many people begin to notice bumps, patches, or all-around dry skin. Skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema may also become more prevalent during this time. Most likely, your skin is responding to the dry air and other irritations in the winter environment.
Surviving the winter means staying hydrated! Remember to drink plenty of water, as this is the most natural way to keep skin hydrated. Second, find a great moisturizer. It’s best to find something without an artificial scent, as fragrances can sometimes irritate the skin. Ceramide-based moisturizers work great, by helping replenish those natural protective compounds in the skin while hydrating at the same time. The best time to apply moisturizer is right after bathing, when the skin is still damp and the moisture can be locked in. Even though it’s freezing outside, hot water strips the skin of its moisture barrier. Cool, quick showers won’t dehydrate the skin, so try to keep the water temperature a little lower to help retain the skin’s moisture.
Best Time to Have Cosmetic Procedures
Most cosmetic procedures are great all year around, but certain procedures are safer when you stay out of the sunlight. After laser surgery, chemical peels, laser hair removal, the removal of sun spots, patients are advised not to tan and avoid excessive sun exposure. What a better time to do that then when it’s cold outside!
As well, laser procedures are safer and work much better when patients are not tanned. In the winter, our tans fade, enabling the laser to target the skin more effectively.
Finally, with spring around the corner, winter is the best time for sclerotherapy and other varicose vein procedures. Planning ahead for short and skirt weather is the best strategy. Don’t wait to treat your spider veins until the time when you want to show off your legs!
Contact Sanova Dermatology
If you would like more information, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dermatologists, please click here.
