Customizing a Skincare Routine for Combination Skin
Have you ever stepped inside after a cold, windy day and felt like your face had been through a blender? That tight, red, burning sensation is likely windburn, and it can leave your skin feeling raw and irritated. If you're wondering how to deal with it and, even better, how to avoid it in the first place, keep reading for some much-needed relief. What exactly is windburn? Windburn happens when the skin's natural oils are stripped away by harsh wind and cold, leaving the outer layer vulnerable. You're left with redness, dryness, and irritation that can look and feel like a sunburn, even if the sun isn't out. How to know if it's windburn It's likely windburn if you're noticing: Red, flushed skin Dry, tight sensation Peeling or flaking Burning or stinging How to treat windburn Here's what to do when your face feels like it's been lashed by a chilly storm: (1) Hydrate your skin. Windburn leaves your skin gasping for moisture. Go for a rich, natural moisturizer for dry skin to replenish what's been stripped away, and avoid anything with heavy fragrances that could make things worse. (2) Skip harsh cleansers. Your regular face wash might be too much right now. Instead, look for a gentle, hydrating cleanser. You don't want to strip your skin further! (3) Soothing balms and creams. Calm that burning sensation with soothing balms, ointments, or skincare creams that create a protective layer over your skin. (4) Hold off on exfoliating. When your skin is inflamed, the last thing it needs is anything abrasive. That means holding off on physical scrubs or chemical exfoliants (put that natural facial peel on pause for now). Let your skin heal before you reintroduce those into your routine. (5) Shield your skin. Once you're on the mend, protect your skin when you head back outside. Layer a heavy-duty moisturizer with a broad-spectrum SPF—even if the sun isn't glaring. Wind can still sneak in and cause damage, so creating that barrier is key. Think of it as an extension of your skincare routine for dry skin. How to prevent windburn before it starts Moisturize in layers: Before heading out, apply a few layers of natural moisturizer for dry skin to build a shield against the elements. Top it off with sunscreen to block any UV rays that might sneak through, even on cloudy days. Choose the right skincare: Some of the best skincare brands for aging skin offer dual-purpose products that nourish and protect against environmental damage. Look for skincare with built-in SPF or barrier-protecting ingredients. Cover-up: It might sound obvious, but scarves, hats, and gloves can be your best friends when the wind picks up. Think of it as stylish armor for your skin!
