Fighting Winter Dryness with a Seasonal Skincare Routine

Winter can be harsh in many ways. Beyond the cold temperatures and wintry weather, dry air can wreak havoc on our skin. When it comes to winter skincare, the main goal is simple: hydration. "The skin is the largest organ of our body, but not everyone's skin reacts the same way. Monitoring your skin — keeping that barrier healthy also protects you from other pathogens that can make you feel bad," explained Jordan Cemorelis, BSN, RN, aesthetic nurse injector and founder of Max Aesthetic, PLLC. Max Aesthetic, located in Keene, has been open for three and a half years. The practice offers Botox, dermal fillers, microneedling, laser skin resurfacing, radio-frequency treatments for collagen production, medical facials, infusions, anti-aging health and wellness services and carries the exclusive ZO Skin Health line. Cemorelis notes that home environments can worsen dryness. "Pay attention to the moisture level in your home. Wood stoves and other heat sources can really dry out skin." She also warns against using the wrong type of moisturizer for your skin. To help patients understand their skin's needs, Max Aesthetic offers a facial scanning device that evaluates hydration and oil levels. "Patients can come in and see if winter is drying out their skin and we can adjust their skin protocol," she said. Hydration and moisture are key during the colder months. Hyaluronic acids can help boost hydration and plump the skin, while ceramides protect the skin barrier and help it retain water. Staying hydrated internally is just as important; drinking enough fluids throughout the day supports skin health, and infusions of serums are another option. Certain vitamins also play a beneficial role. Vitamin B3 supports the skin barrier and helps reduce redness. Vitamin E is anti-inflammatory and repairs dry, irritated winter skin. Antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, help prevent damage from dryness and improve overall skin health. All of these should be applied topically for the best results. "Ingesting these vitamins, you don't really get to say where they are going to go. They would go where your body determines it is needed the most," explained Cemorelis. She also advises that acne-prone patients avoid Vitamin C. "Information from me is always free," she said, encouraging anyone with skincare concerns to stop in with questions. Another major winter essential is sunscreen. "SPF year-round is the super hero of skin health," added Cemorelis. Even though the sun is farther away in winter, reflective surfaces like snow can intensify exposure. Indoor lighting can also affect skin health. Blue light from phones, computers and tablets — as well as ambient indoor lighting — can still damage skin cells. A broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 is recommended. Max Aesthetic is located at 441 Main St., Keene, on the second floor. For more information, call 762-8282, email contact@maxaestheticrn.com, or visit them online at maxaestheticrn.com.