3 winter skincare myths you should stop believing!

Winter can be challenging for your skin, and misconceptions about proper care often lead to mistakes. Let's debunk three common myths and explain the facts behind them to keep your skin healthy and radiant all winter long.

Myth 1: “My skin doesn’t need sunscreen in winter.”

Fact: Even in the colder months, UV rays can damage your skin. While UVB rays (responsible for sunburn) are weaker in winter, UVA rays can penetrate clouds and glass, accelerating skin aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, meaning exposure can be even more intense in snowy areas.

How it affects the skin barrier: UV radiation damages the skin barrier by breaking down collagen and elastin, weakening your skin's ability to retain moisture and defend itself against irritants.

Tip: Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily. Choose a formula that hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier, such as ceramides or niacinamide.

Myth 2: “More moisturizer will fix dry skin.”

Fact: Thicker layers of moisturizer don't always solve dryness. If your skin barrier is compromised or your moisturizer doesn't contain the right ingredients, the product may not be absorbed effectively. The skin barrier, often described as a "brick wall," needs lipids and moisture to stay intact.

How to hydrate effectively:

• Hyaluronic acid: A humectant that draws water into the skin. Apply to damp skin for best results.
• Ceramides: Repair the skin barrier and lock in moisture.
• Occlusive substances: Ingredients such as squalane or shea butter form a protective layer to prevent moisture loss.

Tip: Incorporate a gentle exfoliation 1-2 times a week to remove dead skin cells. This will allow moisturizing products to work more effectively.

Myth 3: “Hot showers are good for your skin in winter.”

Fact: While hot showers feel soothing, they strip the skin of its natural oils. This leads to transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and weakens the skin barrier, resulting in dryness and irritation.

How to protect your skin while showering:

• Use lukewarm water instead of hot.
• Keep the shower short (5-10 minutes).
• Apply moisturizer immediately after showering to lock in moisture.

Tip: Choose body lotions or creams with nourishing ingredients such as glycerin, urea or panthenol to provide moisture.

Additional winter care tips

1. Use a humidifier: Combat dryness caused by heaters by increasing indoor humidity.
2. Layering: First apply a hydrating serum, followed by a rich moisturizer and sunscreen.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and eat water-rich foods like cucumbers, oranges, and melons.

Conclusion

Winter skincare doesn't have to be complicated, but it does require consistency and the right products. By dispelling these myths and adopting science-backed practices, you can protect your skin barrier and keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and radiant all winter long.