My favourite fixes for dry winter skin

After living in Winnipeg for 23 years I have become an expert at battling against the dry skin and chapped lips that go along with our freezing winters. Here are my favourite fixes for common winter skin problems. Try them out and let me know what you think!

Problem: Very dry face
Solution: Facial oil

I know the idea of putting any kind of oil on your face seems scary, but trust me it works. When your face gets dry it forces your skin to produce more oil which can lead to breakouts. Using facial oil after your normal face lotion traps the moisture in and stops your skin from getting dry.

It's best to wash your face before bed, moisturize, and then put a drop of facial oil in your palm and rub it on your face. In the morning your skin will be soft and ready to handle the cold winter winds.
I use Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil from Sephora.

Problem: Dry itchy skin
Solution: Coconut oil

If the skin on your body gets affected by the winter climate then coconut oil is perfect for you. Coconut oil can be purchased at any grocery store and for under $10 you can get a jar that will last you the whole winter, and maybe even longer. The oil comes in a hardened form but it melts fast when you submerge the jar in hot tap water. 

You can rub the oil on your skin before or after you shower. I find that it works much better than regular skin lotion because it adds a layer of moisture to your skin instead of just absorbing and disappearing. It also makes you smell like delicious, tropical coconut!Coconut oil is very versatile, you can use it in your hair, on your face, and even to cook with! 

Problem: Chapped lips
Solution: Vaseline

I tried every lip chap, balm, gloss, and stick I can get my hands on, and nothing works better to soothe chapped lips than good old Vaseline. The thing I like most about using Vaseline is that is doesn't dry out my lips. I find that lots of lip chaps seem to make my lips more chapped and force me to constantly apply more. Vaseline actually repairs my chapped lips! 

I purchased a cute mini jar of Vaseline that is made especially for your lips. After it is empty you can refill it with Vaseline from a normal size jar to save money.  

Problem: Cracked, dry hands
Solution: Curel lotion

After using tons of lotions to try and fix my dry hands, I have found that Curel works the best. With only one application my hands are relieved and my skin starts to look normal again. It has a mild scent and is great for sensitive skin. It's a must have lotion to fix dry hands!


What's your favourite fix for dry winter skin?

-Sarah