Though the days are gradually getting longer in very small increments since the Winter Solstice in December, we still have quite a few weeks of winter left. Since winter will be here for a while, try these tips to take care of your skin

1 | Hydrate from Within With Water, Broths, Teas, and Foods

Staying well hydrated is not a task only suited for the warm weather months. Water is the key to healthy, well-functioning cells. Though drinking water doesn’t directly go to the skin, it’s still it’s important to maintain adequate hydration year-round for a variety of health benefits. If you’re not that big of a water drinker, try bone broth, herbal tea, eating veggies and fruits with high water content, and adding fruit like lemon to your water for an added punch of Vitamin C (just be sure to use a straw so you don’t wear down your teeth enamel).

2 | Eat Veggies and Nix the Processed Foods and Added Sugar

Eating a lot of processed foods with added sugars and salt will do your skin no favors. Try as much as possible to stick to real foods that support nutrition which will in turn positively impact your skin like veggies, proteins, carbs and lower sugar fruits. In need of recipe inspiration? Try some plant based cookbooks:

Sweet Potato Soul Cookbook | Minimalist Baker’s Everyday Cooking Cookbook | Afro Vegan Cookbook | 28-Day Plant-Powered Health Reboot | The Oh She Glows Cookbook | Love Real Food Cookbook

3 | Use a Humidifier

While it may make your home cozy to crank up the heat, the drying heating systems in our homes can dry out our skin. Try using a humidifier in your home to add the moisture into your home. Your plants will benefit from the added moisture as well.

4 | Decrease Puffiness and With Jade Rolling

Jade rollers, which have been used in Chinese skincare for generations, can potentially reduce puffiness and inflammation in the face due to stagnation of the lymphatic system. A jade roller can help to stimulate the lymphatic system, which in turn reduces inflammation and puffiness. Other benefits include brightening complexions, tightening pores (especially if you put it in the fridge for a few minutes before using), helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, and increasing blood circulation (source).

5 | Moisturize!

It’s easy to forget about this key step in overall skincare particularly when you start to focus on anti-aging products, but moisturizing is key to healthy skin year-round. You can go the DIY route or try moisturizers like:

Josh Rosebrook Vital Balm Cream | Ursa Major Golden Hour Recovery Cream | Weleda Skinfood | Acure Brilliantly Brightening Day Cream | Shea Moisture Matcha Green Tea And Probiotics Facial Moisturizer | Sailor Deep Blue Face Moisturizer

6 | Also Try Moisturizing Masks

Face masks are a beneficial addition to your winter skincare routine that also benefits as a fun way to relax after a long day. If you want to go the DIY Route, try these moisturizing mask recipes:

Avocado Lemon & Honey Face Mask | MoistUrizing Greek Yogurt Face Mask | DIY Hydrating Sheet Mask

If DIY skincare isn’t your thing, try these instead:

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask | Lelani Mermaid Mask | Josh Rosebrook Advanced Hydrating Mask | ORIGINS Drink Up-Intensive Overnight Mask to Quench Skin's Thirst | Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Rescue Mask

7 | Use Butters and Oils to Lock in Moisture

Once you do moisturize your skin, it’s also important to lock in that moisture by layering oils on your face and butters on your body. There are an array of oils and butters you can use depending on your skin type but some options to consider:

Jojoba Oil, Almond Oil, Argan Oil, Baobab Oil, Prickly Pear Seed Oil

8 | Ritualize Exercise

Building regular exercise into your winter routine will support your overall health. Among other benefits, regular exercise strengthens your immune system so it can fight off bacterial and viral infections which run rampant this time of year. A strong immune system will mean your body will work more efficiently so you can see the results of your diet and external skin and beauty practices. Build exercise into your daily routine and add more movement to your daily life when possible to reap the benefits of consistent exercise.

The Rooted and Well website and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. 
All material on this website are provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programs.