Your skin reacts to seasonal changes no matter where you live, and winter is usually the worst climate for your epidermis. But winters in Alaska are the harshest.
Fortunately, you can take steps to prep your skin for the coming cold, and we can help.
Our team of medical professionals and licensed estheticians at AK Beautiful You LLC provide state-of-the-art services that address all your skin issues and prevent winter damage. Here are some practical strategies to ensure your skin makes it to spring unscathed.
Winter skin care in Alaska: Your comprehensive guide
At AK Beautiful You LLC, we understand the harsh realities of winter skin care in Alaska. The extreme cold wreaks havoc on your skin, leaving it dry, red, and chapped.
But don’t worry — with a bit of knowledge and proactive care, you can keep your skin healthy and vibrant all winter long.
The challenges of Alaskan winters
The main reason you suffer during winter is the extremely low indoor and outdoor humidity. The lack of moisture in the air dehydrates your skin.
The harsh winds don’t help, either. They strip your skin of its natural oils, dry it out, and make it itchy and overly sensitive. Your skin reacts to the extreme temperature changes from heated indoors to frigid outdoors, triggering redness, irritation, and dryness.
Alaska-specific skin care techniques
Tailoring your skin care routine to the specific challenges of Alaskan winters is the best way to approach the season. Here are some tips:
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize
The best defense against dryness is a good moisturizer. Look for products with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin that lock in moisture and create a protective barrier against the elements.
If your skin is oily, opt for a light, oil-free moisturizer. For dry skin, consider a richer cream or ointment.
Don’t forget sunscreen
The sun’s ultraviolet rays damage your skin even in winter, so never go outside without using a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Use a humidifier
Using a humidifier in your home combats the dry indoor air, giving your skin a much-needed moisture boost.
Nourish your skin
Everything you eat feeds your skin, so choose wisely. Opt for foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, that strengthen your skin’s barrier and keep moisture in. Oranges, lemons, limes, and other citrus fruits have plenty of vitamin C, which fights free radicals and boosts collagen production.
Natural remedies
Natural remedies like aloe vera can soothe irritated skin, while honey has natural moisturizing properties. Oatmeal baths can also relieve dry, itchy skin.
Clinical skin care products
When you’re serious about skin care, it’s time to graduate from the drugstore brands to clinical skin care products. We carry only evidence-based, scientifically formulated products we’ve tested and proven. Some of the professional-grade products we recommend and offer include:
- SkinCeuticals®
- Obagi®
- EltaMD®
- ZO® Skin Health
- Revision Skincare®
Our experienced skin care professionals analyze your skin type, tone, and condition and match you with products that will nourish and protect your skin for years to come.
Remember, winter skin care isn’t only about treating problems but also about preventing them. Call or click to schedule an appointment at AK Beautiful You LLC. By understanding the unique challenges that Alaskan winters present and adjusting your skin care routine accordingly, you can maintain healthy, glowing skin all winter long.