When the cold months of winter roll in, most of us are quick to switch up things in our closets, but your clients may not know that it’s just as important to make some changes to their skincare. Between the cold, dry weather outside and the heater running inside, the winter season can quickly drain the skin of moisture and elasticity.

To help your clients avoid dry, itchy skin and hang onto that youthful glow, you can recommend they commit to these ten winter skin resolutions!

1 | Skip the long, hot shower.

When colder temps hit, it’s tempting to linger in the warmth of the shower, but staying under the spray too long actually sucks the moisture out of your skin. Cranking up the heat can cause further dryness by stripping away the skin’s natural oils.

Keeping the water to a warm (but not hot) temperature is ideal for healthy skin and especially important for anyone who suffers from skin problems like eczema or rosacea.

2 | Use a gentler cleanser.

Many people up their moisturizing game during the winter months, but changing up the cleanser we use can make a difference too. A good test is how your skin feels after cleansing. If it feels tight, that’s a sign that the cleanser is too harsh.

3 | Wear sunscreen every day.

With more skin covered up and fewer hours of sunlight, it’s a common misconception that SPF isn’t necessary for the winter. The truth is that the sun’s harmful UV rays are still present on even the coldest days.

Sun damage is the leading cause of premature signs of aging so encourage your clients to continue using sunscreen throughout the winter. A moisturizer that contains SPF can be an easy way to get that important layer of protection.

*Side note: daily SPF isn’t just a winter skin resolution, but something to commit to year-round.

4 | Use a humidifier.

One of the best times to replenish the skin’s moisture is while you sleep, but during the winter we often have the heater running during the night. A humidifier in the bedroom can help prevent the warm, dry air from zapping the skin’s moisture.

5 | Get rid of expired or old products.

While a lot of products might not have an expiration date, that doesn’t mean they don’t go bad. If a product has changed color or smell, it’s time to toss it out. If you can’t remember when (or why) you bought it, that might be another hint that it’s time to say goodbye.

6 | Drink plenty of water.

Keeping the body hydrated is one of the best ways to prevent dry skin in the winter, not to mention it’s good for your overall health. The skin is the body’s largest organ and you can help it stay hydrated by drinking enough water each day.

If you struggle to drink enough plain water, try adding cucumber or lemon slices to your water to give it flavor without adding unnecessary sugar and other additives.

7 | Exfoliate regularly.

Dry skin can be less efficient at shedding dead skin cells. Exfoliating regularly during the winter removes dead skin cells and promotes cell turnover and collagen production. It can help the skin look brighter and allow moisturizers to penetrate the skin more deeply.

Be sure to recommend a gentle exfoliant as a part of your clients’ skincare regimens. They’ll get the benefit of exfoliation without any harsh ingredients that might be too rough for dry skin.

8 | Apply skincare products in the right order.

Make sure to educate your clients about their skincare routine, even if they didn’t buy their products from you. Applying products in the right order will give them the best possible results.

Many people may assume they know which products to use in which order, but you can serve your clients best by ensuring they are following the proper steps.

9 | Protect your lips and hands.

Lips and hands often take the brunt of winter damage because moisturizer comes off easily during eating, drinking, and handwashing. Moisturizing regularly and using products with SPF can help avoid scaly or painful chapped lips and hands.

Another trick for preventing dry hands is to wear gloves while washing dishes. Save your hands from the lengthy exposure to hot water.

And our final winter skin resolution….

10 | Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.

Paying extra attention to keeping skin hydrated during the winter is going to have all kinds of benefits. Aside from preventing the discomfort of dry, itchy skin, moisturizing regularly improves the skin’s appearance and elasticity.

Dry skin can increase signs of aging so make sure that you’re recommending products and treatments that will keep your clients’ skin properly hydrated.

The Bottom Line

Winter skin woes are not uncommon. The cold and the dry air found both outside and indoors can deplete the skin’s natural moisture. The good news is that committing to even a few of these winter skin resolutions can help winter skin look and feel better.