5 Tips for Healthier Winter Skin

Try hi-tech skincare

Experience medical-grade LED therapy and professional skin treatment at home — and use your pre-tax HSA dollars to pay for it. LED light therapy is a type of light therapy that uses LEDs to generate different wavelengths of light. Each wavelength has a different color and effect. Blue light helps treat acne by reducing oil production and preventing future breakouts, while red light helps stimulate collagen production. LED light therapy also promotes healing after suffering sun damage or after surgical procedures and helps minimize irritation and redness. Plus, this safe, gentle treatment can be used on all skin tones and types because it doesn't contain UV rays. 

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Install a humidifier at home

A home's ideal relative humidity level is between 40 and 60 percent, which ensures that indoor air does not dry out your skin, but doesn't risk moisture problems to a home over time. A humidifier will emit water mist to raise the moisture level in the air, and it is best utilized in frequently used spaces like bedrooms and living rooms to provide maximum benefits.

Note: Humidifiers used to treat a medical condition may be eligible with an HSA- with a Letter of Medical Necessity. Humidifiers for general health/wellbeing are not considered eligible. Wondering what else is eligible? Check our complete HSA Eligibility List™.

Moisturize

While your skincare routine may work just fine in the spring and summer, winter is the time of year where some improvements are called for. First, look for an oil-based moisturizer as opposed to a water-based moisturizer, as oil-based variants can provide an extra layer of protection that can stand up to dry air, retain moisture in the skin. Most importantly, use only gentle, scent-free products to help your skin retain its natural oils, as scented products could be too harsh.

The skin on your hands is much thinner and have fewer oil glands than in other parts of the body, which is why they tend to experience bouts of dryness more often. Start by always washing your hands with warm (not hot!) water to prevent the loss of natural oils, moisturizing often with lotion throughout the day, and wearing gloves outdoors to protect your hands from wind and snow.

Change your skincare routine

Everything from your morning shower to washing your face could have adverse effects on your skin, but not if you alter your regimen to suit the winter weather. First — if you shave your facial hair — shave only after you have exited the shower, as the warm water will moisturize the skin, soften the hairs, and reduce irritation. When washing your face, always opt for warm water instead of hot, as this can dry out the skin and make it more susceptible to wind and cold. Last but not least, limit your shower times to 5 to 10 minutes, avoid soaps with heavy fragrances, and use a moisturizer after exiting the shower.

Use SPF protection that moisturizes

The winter sun may be less strong than during the summer, but the persistent UV rays coupled with glare from the snowy landscape can still damage your skin throughout the season. If you're going to be outdoors for longer than a half hour, apply broad spectrum sunscreen or lip balm with an SPF 30 or above to safeguard your skin.

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The combination of cold air, harsh winds, and indoor heating all affect your skin, making it more vulnerable to damage. But with proper care, you can maintain your skin’s health and avoid issues like redness, cracking, or worsening of existing conditions like eczema.

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