Winter Survival Kit: Light Therapy, Skincare, and Mental Health
Beat the Winter Blues
Winter brings its own set of challenges for our skin and our mood.
The cold winds and dry air can make our skin feel rough and dry, while the lack of sunny days means we might not get outside as much.
This can lead to us feeling less active and a bit down because we're not moving around or seeing as much sunlight.
Even though winter can be tough, it's also a time when we can enjoy the beauty of the season, like snowfall and cozy evenings. Knowing how winter affects us helps us take better care of ourselves.
By finding ways to stay active and keep our skin moisturized, we can feel happier and healthier during the colder months.
In this article, I'll explore some helpful tips and tricks to combat the harsh effects of winter.
I. Light Therapy and Its Benefits
On the recommendation of a friend, I set up a light therapy system in my home to help combat the gloomy effects of winter on my skin and mood.
This system includes:
Sperti Fiji Vitamin D Lamp: Enhances vitamin D production, compensating for reduced sunlight.
Sperti UVB Lamp: Imitates natural sunlight to improve overall skin health.
Sperti Vitamin D and Fiji Sun Bundle EMR-Tek Red Light Device: Known for its anti-aging benefits, promoting skin elasticity and a healthier complexion.
EMR-Tek Sunset Bulbs: These replace standard harsh white bulbs with a softer light that mimics the natural light of sunset, easing the strain on my eyes in the evenings.
PS - you can enjoy 30% off when you shop at emr-tek.com with the code SKINCARESTACY!
Additionally, I use the CurrentBody Series 2 mask and red light helmet, which are geared specifically towards enhancing facial skincare through red light therapy.
To further support my circadian rhythm and reduce exposure to disruptive blue light, I wear Spectra 479 glasses after sunset.
Each morning, I aim to wake up at sunrise and ensure I'm in bed by 10-11 PM to promote restful sleep.
This focused approach not only helps maintain my skin health during the challenging winter months but also boosts my overall mood and well-being.
If you want to learn more about the CurrentBody tools, check out our articles: CurrentBody's Red Light Therapy Mask: A Comprehensive Review, I Tested the New Red Light Mask for 8 Weeks — Here's My Honest Review, and 5 Cutting-Edge Devices to Elevate Your Anti-Aging Routine.
II. Diet and Exercise Adjustments for Winter
During the colder months, it's important to adjust both diet and exercise routines to support overall health.
I focus on eating fewer carbohydrates and slightly increase my intake of proteins and healthy fats, which helps since I'm a bit less active than in the summer.
Timing carbohydrate intake strategically before workouts, like lifting sessions, ensures that I have enough energy to maintain my exercise routine.
Staying active indoors is key to overcoming the drop in physical activity that often comes with winter.
Simple adjustments, such as incorporating yoga, following online workout videos, or even engaging in stretching sessions throughout the day, can make a big difference.
These activities not only help maintain fitness but also promote better blood flow, which is essential for keeping skin healthy and vibrant during the winter months.
III. Skincare Routine Adjustments for Winter
In this section, we'll explore essential adjustments and recommended products to help protect and nourish your skin, ensuring it stays hydrated and healthy throughout the colder months.
I'll guide you through creating an effective winter skincare regimen tailored to combat the harsh winter conditions.
Gentle Cleansing:
Using a gentle cleanser can make a big difference. Some cleansers are too strong and can take away the natural oils your skin needs, especially when it's cold and dry outside.
A good choice is the Prequel Glycerin Cleanser.
It's gentle and doesn't strip your skin, but it still does a great job of cleaning.
This means your skin stays soft and hydrated, even when the weather isn't very nice.
Hydrating Serums:
Using a hydrating serum can help prevent your skin from drying out and feeling uncomfortable in winter.
Serums are like a super drink for your skin because they go deep and bring lots of moisture.
One good serum to try is the Experiment SuperSaturated serum.
It's packed with stuff that helps your skin hold onto moisture, but it can feel a little sticky, so it's a good idea to put some moisturizer on after you use it.
Another awesome serum is the Medik8 Liquid Peptides.
Along with hydrating your skin, it contains ingredients that work to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Both of these serums are great for giving your skin some extra love during the cold months.
Rich Moisturizers:
It's crucial to switch to heavier moisturizers to combat the drying effects of cold air and indoor heat during the winter months.
Products like Medik8's Advanced Ceramide Cream, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, and Stratia Liquid Gold are excellent choices.
These moisturizers help strengthen your skin’s barrier, keeping moisture in and dryness out.
Using one of these can keep your skin hydrated and soft all season long.
Specialty Treatments and Masks:
During the chilly months, adding a nourishing mask to your skincare routine can give your skin a much-needed hydration boost.
The BloomEffects Royal Tulip Moisturizing Nectar is a fantastic choice.
This mask deeply moisturizes your skin, helping to soothe and revitalize it, making it feel super soft and look radiant.
It’s perfect for those extra dry winter days when your skin needs a little more TLC.
Oils and Night Treatments:
In the winter, using facial oils and overnight treatments can really help your skin stay nice and hydrated.
When it's cold and the air is dry, these products are like a secret weapon for your skin.
They work while you sleep, locking in moisture and protecting your skin from getting dry and flaky.
For example, True Botanicals Pure Radiance Oil is awesome because it's made with natural oils that soak into your skin, making it look fresh and glowy when you wake up.
Another great budget choice is The Ordinary’s Rosehip Oil.
This oil is full of good stuff like fatty acids and vitamins that help keep your skin smooth and soft.
Adding these oils to your bedtime routine can make a big difference.
They create a barrier that helps keep the moisture in and the dry air out, so you can wake up with skin that feels great, even on the coldest winter days.
Body Care:
Just like the skin on your face, the skin on your body needs extra care in the winter too.
It's easy to forget about it because it's usually covered up, but your body skin can get really dry and itchy when it's cold.
To help keep your skin feeling good all winter, using hydrating body washes and moisturizers is super important.
A great option is Naturium Glow Getter, which moisturizes your skin as it gently cleanses.
It doesn't strip away moisture like some soaps can, which is exactly what you need during the dry winter months.
For moisturizers, try Hanni Splash Salve or Amlactin.
Hanni Splash Salve is great for locking in moisture all day long.
Amlactin not only moisturizes but also gently exfoliates your skin, getting rid of dry, flaky patches.
By making sure to use these kinds of products, you'll help your body's skin stay soft and smooth, even when the weather is freezing outside.
Lip and Hair Care:
Winter can really dry out your hair and lips, but there are some awesome products you can use to keep them hydrated.
For your hair, try using Fountainhead Moisturizing Hair Oil. It’s wonderful!
You just need a little bit to help keep your hair from getting dry and staticy.
You can use it a few times a week, or mix a few drops into your regular shampoo or conditioner for some extra moisture.
For your lips, Grace & Stella’s overnight mask is perfect. Just put it on before you go to bed, and you'll wake up with super soft lips.
It's much better than using harsh lip scrubs that can strip away your natural oils, especially in the cold months.
Those scrubs can be too rough when it’s chilly out, so using a gentle mask is a better idea.
Using these products can really help keep your hair and lips from getting too dry this winter. Try them out and see how they work for you!
IV: Maintaining Mental Health in Winter
Keeping your mental health strong is super important, especially when it's cold and dark outside.
Here are some cool tips to help you stay happy and healthy all winter:
Light Therapy: If you're missing sunlight, try light therapy. Lamps that mimic daylight can boost your mood just like a sunny day.
Stay Active: Keep moving because exercise releases endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that make you happier.
Socialize: Spend time with friends and family. Talking and laughing with others can lift your spirits and ward off loneliness.
Routine is Key: Stick to a regular schedule. Having set times for waking up, eating, and sleeping can help manage stress and keep you organized.
Seek Help When Needed: If you're feeling overwhelmed, it’s totally okay to talk to a counselor or mental health professional. They’re there to help you feel better.
These tips can help you manage the winter blues and keep your spirits high during the colder months!
Shining Bright and Staying Cozy
Winter might try to bring us down, but now you’ve got all the tools to stay positive and keep glowing!
Every cloudy day has its bright side—you just need to bring the light, keep moving, and stay connected with the people you care about.
So, grab your coziest sweater, turn on that light therapy lamp, and show winter you’re in charge.
Let’s make this season one to remember for all the good reasons!
Cheers,