Unhappy Skin: Help your complexion in cold weather and long Canadian winters

Cold weather can be harsh on the skin. The long winters in Canada present a challenge for maintaining happy and healthy skin.

Let's look at the many ways the cold season can contribute to accelerating the aging process for our skin.

Reduced collagen production: Collagen is a protein that maintains the skin's elasticity and firmness. Environmental exposures can damage collagen fibers reducing their thickness and strength. For example, in extreme cold, the body might reduce its production of collagen, which can cause the skin to become less elastic and more prone to wrinkles and fine lines.

Reduced blood flow: Cold weather causes the blood vessels in the skin to constrict, which reduces blood flow to the skin. This commonly results in a dull, sallow complexion and can contribute to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, cold winter wind also aggravates the effects of cold air on the skin. Windburn is common in people who spend long hours outside during cold days. It causes the skin to become red, irritated, and very dry, directly contributing to developing wrinkles and lines.

Sun damage: Even during a cloudy winter day, the sun can still cause some damage to your skin. Snow and ice can reflect UV rays, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

That's why it is essential to always have sun protection in your daily skincare routine, even during darker months of the year.

Dry air: Cold weather comes with drier air due to the air's lower humidity capacity. This causes the skin to become dry and dehydrated, a condition prerequisite for wrinkles and fine lines. In addition to applying sufficient moisturizer to your skin, aim to stay hydrated; In cold weather, you may not feel as thirsty as during warmer months, but it's important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Drink water, warm beverages, and soups to stay hydrated.

Indoor heating: Due to Canada's long winter, we heavily rely on indoor heating. This contributes to dehydrated skin, as heated air strongly dehydrates the skin. This dehydration, combined with the stressful exposure to cold air, often results in the dull and unhealthy complexion we experience during the cold months.

Lack of vitamin D: During winter, getting adequate vitamin D from sunlight can be more challenging, which is crucial for skin health. A deficiency in vitamin D may contribute to the appearance of aging skin. Try to use supplements to maintain your body's healthy Vitamin D level.

Reduced physical activity: In colder weather, people tend to engage less often in physical activity, which in addition to all the external factors, leads to a decrease in blood flow to the skin. This can contribute to the appearance of fine lines, which are the starting point for developing wrinkles.

Overall, the combination of cold weather, dry air, reduced blood flow, sun damage, indoor heating, lack of vitamin D, and reduced physical activity can contribute to faster facial skin aging.

Microcurrent can help to hydrate facial skin and keep the face looking fresh. This non-invasive rejuvenation treatment works by stimulating blood flow, boosting collagen production, enhancing skin cell function, and increasing (skincare) product absorption.

However, remember that in order to achieve the best results, especially during winter, Microcurrent should be used in conjunction with a comprehensive skincare routine that includes proper hydration, sun protection, and other essential skincare practices like maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle and a balanced diet.

Call for more information about Microcurrent or a free introductory appointment!