The sun-kissed skin we obtained after our holidays doesn’t only have an aesthetic effect, but also very noxious consequences upon the tegument structure. Our skin is made from several layers and it reacts when faced with the aggressive environmental attacks. In time, the negative results can be observed: wrinkles, the appearance of freckles, premature aging of the skin, DNA modification with the risk of developing melanoma even 10 or 30 years after the sunburn. In order to avoid cutaneous aging, it is advisable to take care of your skin on a daily basis. And everything starts with a good hygiene. Cleansing the face is a must whether it rains, snows, or it’s sunny. As harsh elements can really damage your skin, check out some winter skin care tips. 
Water is a vital element for our body, especially for our skin. Deprived of water, the skin dries, turns red, becomes rougher, ages more rapidly, and is not able to face the external aggressions. Hydration is the main objective when it comes to skin regeneration, both by using dermatocosmetics rich in multivitamins, and by ensuring a daily amount of minimum 1,5-2 liters of water, which facilitates the elimination of toxins and the strength of the epidermis. Therefore, the first important gesture that can help you avoid damages is to drink water.
A beautiful, smooth, luminous skin is a very-well hydrated skin. Just for the record, the skin of a baby contains 80% water. During cold winter days, our skin tends to dry out. Some of the symptoms of a dry skin are: discomfort sensation, the skin turns red, and it even becomes irritated. Therefore, we should slow down water loss by making a barrier that stops the water molecules from getting away. Choose suited moisturizing creams with rich textures, which are perfect for winter, that nourish and recharge the skin. Apply hydrating, nourishing and regenerating masks, two times a week, in order to repair the skin and prepare it to face external aggressions.
As we have said before, there are certain moisturizing creams that act at skin level by applying a protective layer and therefore avoiding excessive water loss.The best thing you can do in order to prevent any damage is to choose a moisturizer that is oil-based, or products containing humectants, like glycerine.
If you are prone to acne, it is very important to see a dermatologist, especially if the problem becomes even worse in winter.
It is already well-known the fact that sunscreen is not just for summer. Weather conditions change, but winter sun and snow glare can become real enemies of your skin. This is why, it is important to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher to the face, hands, and any other skin area exposed.
Another essential thing you can do during winter in order to maintain your skin healthy is to use exfoliants. If you exfoliate your skin periodically, all dead cells are removed, and moisturizers are better and faster absorbed, and are more efficient. However, remember that too harsh products can only cause damage to your skin.
In case your skin turns red, thyme and lavender are the best allies due to their calming and soothing properties. These are very efficient ingredients that can help you fight against this problem that attacks skin during winter. Apply them especially if you have a very sensitive skin.
It is also advisable to apply, every morning and every evening, an eye cream. Use it just like a treatment for sensitive and fragile areas that are attacked by harsh elements.
Don’t forget to protect your lips too, using lip balms, as this is a very fragile area. If you have crack lips, apply a thicker layer several times a day. Also, you must protect your hands, as the skin on your hands is thinner and gloves don’t always offer enough protection. Use a cream containing petroleum jelly, shea butter, vegetable oils, silicone, as they confer a protective screen. In case of cracking and itchiness, apply a very thick layer of cream on the hands and leave it during the night. When going outside, make sure you wear gloves to keep your hands warm.
Diet is also very important if we want to maintain our skin healthy, as long as we are aware of the fact that we are what we eat. The quality and texture of the skin are visibly improved by a diet based on dairy products, fish, chicken meat, fish and olive oil. Minerals, proteins and vitamins from fruits and vegetables consumed daily confer firmness, elasticity, brightness, and a velvet-like appearance to your skin.
Foods with a strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effect are apples, watermelon, melon, bilberries, strawberries, avocado, oranges, bananas, kiwi, grapes, pomegranates, nectarines, plums, fennel/caraway, oregano, parsley, coriander, tomatoes, carrots, peppers, radishes, beans, cabbage, broccoli, garlic, cauliflower, spinach, whole meal cereals, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, yeast, barley and oats. These are important elements for a strong immune system and they are amazing sources of minerals, like magnesium, selenium, zinc, and Q10 coenzyme, and essential vitamins. Moreover, they protect the skin, prevent premature aging, and they help fight acne and wrinkles.
