In colder temperatures we need to adjust our skincare routine to ensure healthy barrier function. Prolonged exposure to reduced humidity, as occurs in radiant-heated homes in temperate climates during the winter, is a well-known risk factor for AD (A topic dermatitis/rashes/redness). AD increases the natural process of water loss through our skin, which causes dry/itch skin and signals inflammation.
There is evidence that lowering skin PH can help to protect the skin from external pathogens and help bring barrier function back to normal. This is done in your esthetician’s office with peels and masks. Water and some cosmetics can raise the PH of your skin, which is a deadly environment for the good bacteria needed for healthy skin. There is also scientific evidence that psychological stress aggravates barrier function. There are 3 key lipids (Ceramides, cholesterol, Free Fatty Acids) that control barrier function. Applying a lotion including these lipids will help normalize barrier function and heal dry and inflamed skin.
This is a pretty scientific article, but it explains why a monthly peel and a proper home skincare routine is essential for healthy feeling and looking skin throughout the winter. This is especially important for people suffering from dry skin, Rosacea, eczema and dermatitis even before winter begins.