Winter Skincare and Haircare: Expert Tips to Revamp Your Routine for the Cold Season

As winter approaches, our skin and hair need extra care to handle the shift in weather. The cold, dry air can strip away moisture, leading to dryness, irritation, and damage. To maintain a healthy, radiant appearance, it's important to adjust your skincare and haircare routine. Here's expert advice from Dr. Shweta Mishra, a cosmetic surgeon at Sharva Clinic, New Delhi, to help you manage these changes with ease.

# Moisture Is a Must

For Skin:
Winter air tends to dry out the skin, making moisture loss a common issue. A rich, medical-grade moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides can help retain moisture and prevent irritation. In warmer weather, opt for a lighter, oil-free moisturizer to avoid clogging pores.

For Hair:
Just like skin, the scalp also suffers from dryness in winter, often causing dandruff. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner that includes nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil and argan oil to keep your scalp hydrated without weighing your hair down.

# Adjust Your Cleansing Routine

For Skin:
Harsh cleansers can deplete essential moisture, especially during the winter months. Switch to a gentle, non-foaming cleanser to protect your skin’s natural barrier. In warmer months, when oil production increases, a foaming or salicylic acid-based cleanser can help prevent breakouts.

For Hair:
Washing your hair too often can strip it of natural oils. During the winter, reduce the frequency of hair washing and use a gentle, hydrating shampoo . In the summer, when your scalp becomes oilier, a weekly clarifying shampoo can help maintain scalp health.

# Sunscreen – A Year-Round Essential

For Skin:
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can damage your skin, causing premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Make sunscreen with at least SPF 30 a daily habit, no matter the season. Reapply regularly in the warmer months, especially when outdoors.

For Hair:
UV rays can also dry out and damage your hair, making it brittle. Protect your hair by wearing a hat or using products with UV filters.

# Treatments for Seasonal Changes

For Skin:
In colder weather, consider professional treatments like chemical peels or laser resurfacing to address dryness and dullness. In the summer, focus on treatments that target oil and acne, such as salicylic acid peels or LED light therapy.

For Hair:
Cold air can make your hair frizzy and prone to breakage. A weekly deep conditioning mask or leave-in conditioner can restore moisture. During humid weather, lightweight serums or anti-frizz sprays will keep your hair manageable.

# Diet and Supplements

For Skin:
Supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, and antioxidants can help maintain skin hydration and elasticity. Consider adding collagen peptides to your diet for an extra boost.

For Hair:
Nutrients like biotin, zinc, and vitamin D are essential for hair growth. A balanced diet or physician-recommended supplements can help keep your hair healthy and strong.

# Don’t Skip Exfoliation

For Skin:
Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells that tend to accumulate faster in winter. Be careful not to over-exfoliate, though, as it can lead to irritation. Gentle exfoliators like AHAs or BHAs are good options.

For Hair:
Exfoliating your scalp can promote healthier hair growth by clearing dead skin cells and product buildup. Use a scalp scrub or exfoliating treatment to maintain a healthy scalp.

By making small yet effective adjustments to your skincare and haircare routine, you can keep your skin and hair healthy and glowing throughout the winter season.