What are the effects of cold on the skin?
When winter and the cold arrive, the skin is quick to show signs of pain, dryness, and itching. What's the reason? Temperature drops, chilly winds, temperature differences between inside and outside, but also improper beauty procedures.
In this new article, we explain the effects of cold on the skin (spoiler alert: there are both beneficial and harmful effects) and provide you tips for winter skin care!
How does the skin react to cold? The action of cold on the skin
Cold exposure puts the skin to the test, especially as it is the organ most exposed to temperature variations! Temperature differences between inside and outside induce a large loss of water from the hydrolipidic coating, resulting in skin drying. Problem: in the winter, we tend to be less thirsty and so dehydrated. Because of the racing, this water loss is never fully replenished, and the skin grows drier and drier. The hydrolipidic film also no longer works as a protective barrier, rendering the skin even more exposed to cold air and wind.
Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the skin is crucial in controlling body temperature. To protect us from the cold, the skin's veins constrict to prevent heat loss and to safeguard important organs. This temperature management function is critical to our survival, however it should be noted that it leads to poor skin vascularization. As a result, the epidermis receives less oxygen and is susceptible to long-term cracking, micro-cutting, and flaking.
In general, the following are the most prevalent long-term consequences of cold on skin:
- insufficient blood circulation
- scaly skin
- Flaking, inflammation, tightness, redness, pain, intolerance to particular cosmetics, and so on)
- healing time is being extended
- Skin elasticity is reduced.
Although exposure to cold has a number of negative effects on the skin, it can also be therapeutic in tiny amounts!
IS COLD GOOD FOR THE SKIN?
If your skin is properly hydrated and protected, a brief exposure to cold can be good. Indeed, the cold has a tightening effect! In other words, it can reduce tissue slackening and hence erase the indications of aging.
Furthermore, cold has an astringent effect, which means it has the ability to tighten the pores of the skin and thus reduce overproduction of sebum (which might be useful if you have oily skin). As a result, the skin's texture is improved.
The cold, in modest doses, can also improve blood circulation and promote a healthy complexion. Yes, we know that seems counterintuitive to what was said earlier, but we're talking about a brief exposure to cold!
Finally, one of the additional impacts of cold on the skin is that it acts as a decongestant. When your eyes are swollen, this is the product to use!
Use skin-incing or expose yourself to cold for a few minutes to reap all of the benefits of cold on the body.
Body and face: how to protect your skin from the effects of cold and wind?
Although the cold can be helpful to the body and face, it goes without saying that you need modify your beauty routine to preserve your skin in the winter. Nothing complicated there! Yes, you can take care of your skin in the winter by following a few simple steps and using the correct cosmetic products. Follow the instructions!
GENTLY CLEAN YOUR SKIN
In the winter, there is no excuse for not cleansing your skin because water attacks it and makes it painful! To avoid this sensation, simply use warm water (although hot baths are quite tempting) and a face and body wash containing moisturizing, nourishing, and protective natural components.
To avoid irritating your already sensitive skin, try to wipe it gently and use your moisturizer right away!
MOISTURIZE YOUR SKIN TO REDUCE THE FEELING OF DISCOMFORT
Think hydration as soon as your skin is clean! Creams with more nourishing and unctuous textures can be used to hydrate the skin in chilly weather. These creams will be quite pleasant to use and will soothe dry and uncomfortable skin areas, in addition to supplying the skin with what it requires!
Know that you can use vegetable oils to hydrate your skin in the winter! They are high in vital fatty acids and will deeply nourish, moisturize, protect, and restore the skin's elasticity.
Don't forget to moisturize the extremities, which are drier and more susceptible to cold damage. In the winter, pay extra care to your hands and lips!
PROTECT SKIN FROM POTENTIAL BURNS
Who said UV rays didn't affect the skin in the winter? Yes, even when the sun is less apparent, UV radiation are present. As a result, it is critical to continue using sun protection in the winter, especially if you are going skiing. The latter not only prevents burns, but it also prevents skin aging!
MAINTAIN HEALTHY HABITS
It is also possible to establish (or maintain) a healthy habit to reduce the effects of cold on the skin. When we talk about a healthy routine, we mean a varied and balanced food, physical activity, and enough of water throughout the day.
These few ingredients will not only benefit your health, but will also benefit your skin! Furthermore, do not be afraid to make dietary supplement remedies to prevent deficiencies.
This winter, play to protect your skin from the cold! Products that are adapted, soft gestures, a varied and balanced diet, sun protection... There are numerous winter skin care tips available!
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