Winter Skin Care

By Phyllis Nelson

Some may wonder what the connection between winter and skin may be, but for others there is no mystery. Winter means dry, cracked, chaffed and generally uncomfortable skin for many of us. Especially those of us that qualify as baby boomers!

The skin is one of the most amazing, largest functioning organs of the body. Adults on average have about 18 square feet of skin with a weight of 5 to 8lbs. Its’ main functions are protection, temperature regulation and detoxification.

An inch of skin contains on average: 

The Aging Process:
Intrinsic Aging - with the simple ticking of time, matter deteriorates. Collagen and elastin production decline 65% between the ages of 20 and 80. Skin thickness decreases 6% every 10 years. Intrinsic aging accounts for only about 10% of the visible signs of aging.

Actinic Aging - comes from exposure to the sun and the environment. UVA rays destroy collagen and elastin which ages the skin. UVB rays cause burning and increase the risk of  skin cancer. Using products with mineral oil or SD40 alcohols also contributes to this process. 90% of the visible signs of aging are actinic and avoidable!

In our 20’s we begin to see small wrinkles around the eyes and lips. In our 30’s skin becomes less resilient as the elastin declines, allowing gravity to begin to have its way. In our 40’s, as elasticity begins to diminish, skin loses its memory and becomes less able to snap back. Repetitive movements such as frowns, squinting, smoking or drinking from water bottles, form the first permanent wrinkles. As the 50’s dawn, gravity becomes a factor along with the decrease in collagen and elastin, causing skin and muscle to sag. The tip of the nose will eventually droop and the ears will elongate. As the skin thins, it loses its ability to retain moisture and that is part of why winter increases the challenges to our skin.

Prevention and protection are key to a youthful appearance, so a comprehensive approach that addresses both intrinsic and actinic aging factors both inside and out is critical. Using skin care that cleanses, moisturizes and protects, relying on the active components of herbs and botanicals, is a great way to address the visible signs of aging. Using ingredients that do not disrupt the skins ideal pH of 5.5 to 6.0 goes a long way to addressing the issue of dryness and skin irritation.

Exfoliating with a gentle facial scrub helps to slough off dead surface cells, smoothes and stimulates the skin increasing circulation, while leaving the skin with a healthy glow.

Deep pore cleansing with a quality masque helps remove impurities, soil and excess oils from deep within the pores. This helps to tighten and refine the pores. Using a non-alcohol astringent removes the final traces of dirt and restores the pH. Taking quality supplements with ingredients that improve circulation and provide lots of antioxidants, will improve overall skin health.

What is the biggest concern you have about your skin? Does the oncoming of winter create additional challenges for you skin? If you are interested in finding a pure, safe, beneficial solution to winter dryness or you are concerned about the visible signs of aging, please contact me at balancedliving282@sbcglobal.net or at 860.822.6416 for a consultation. I also invite you to visit my web site. Your skin will be glad you did!

Phyllis Nelson
Independent Consultant Regional Vice President Arbonne International www.balancedliving.myarbonne.com.
Member and Past President of SECT Women’s NETWORK

As profiled on GRACE magazine website, www.graceforwomen.com