Brittle nails? Snapping hair? Losing your complexion? Don’t let the winter blues get you down. Take control of your hair, skin and nails and moisturize yourself back to vitality!
Harsh winter temps can wreak havoc on our bodies, but you can fight back! These simple tips will keep you warm and moisturized all winter long.
Hair
Hair is no contender against harsh winter air. And with fluctuating temps, going in and out of warm to cold air “shocks” your hair, causing it to fall out rapidly.
Eating spicy, nutritious meals will keep your scalp stimulated, ensuring steady hair growth. Keeping your head covered and protected when venturing out into the cold will keep your hair and scalp insulated. Using nutrient-rich natural oils like jojoba oil, olive oil or coconut oil penetrate the hair shaft with minimal residue; taking vitamin E and omega fish oils keep it “lubed” on the inside.
Wearing protective hairstyles, where the ends are tucked in or covered altogether with braids, weaves or wigs, are great ways to preserve your tresses while staying stylish, regardless of the weather!
Skin
Your skin — your face, in particular — is on the front lines of harsh temperatures. Whether you opt for home- or salon-quality spa treatments, facials go a long way to offering lasting protection against harsh climates.
For added moisture, reduce your use of astringents and toners that draw oils from your skin. Switching to an intense moisturizer gives you added hydration, allowing your skin to breathe while protected from the wind.
Night creams are also a good idea. We lose lots of moisture at night due to the dry heat filtering through our homes. A humidifier infuses moisture into your environment, keeping your hair, skin and nails hydrated while you sleep.
Nails
With winter come germs and the call for frequent hand-washing. While highly recommended, it’s important to follow up with a good hand cream to keep your hands moisturized and your nails from breaking or developing hang-nails.
Treat yourself to a paraffin treatment. This add-on service offered by most salons and nail shops is a simple luxury, offering minutes of warm, intense hydration while relaxing and calming your nerves. Your hands are dipped in warm wax, wrapped and insulated for 5-10 minutes, revealing soft, moisturized skin! It’s great for feet, too!
Keep moving
You might be tempted to “hibernate,” but it’s important to avoid becoming sedentary and inactive. Regular movement and exercise go a long way to keeping you energized and hydrated! The movement gets your blood pumping, stimulating circulation, resulting in increased hair and nail growth.
Green vegetables, carrots, and other colorful foods keep the color in your skin, preventing you from looking gaunt and sallow. And of course, WATER! If you catch yourself reaching for soda and other “fun” beverages, reach for water instead! Because your body loses moisture from every angle, drink as much water as possible — before bed, in the morning and every time you can in between!
Stay WARM!
Anika Robbins is a beauty and wellness expert. A cosmetology educator, she is the co-owner of the Robbins Urban Wellness Retreat offering programs on chiropractic, nutrition, massage and beauty. She travels extensively promoting health, beauty and empowerment through her company, ANIKA INTERNATIONAL. She welcomes reader responses to 612-670-6355 or via email: anika@anikainternational.com.
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