Tampa’s high temperatures for January and February average a cool 71 degrees – not exactly frosty. But still, extra precautions should be taken as indoor heaters and winter’s dry air and harsh winds can sap moisture from your skin and cause cracking, chapping and irritation; known to some as “winter’s itch.”

 

Many living in the Urban Corridor (UC) choose to start at the top, by getting a deep–cleansing facial. Regular facials, and working the following six tips into your skin care routine, will help keep your face soft and vibrant.

 

1. Fight drying. Some lotions and creams make dry skin worse by promoting it. Switching to an oil-based facial moisturizer may help, as the more oil it contains, the more effectively it will protect against moisture loss.

 

2. Don’t forget the sunscreen. Even though it may feel like the air conditioner is on outside and stuck on low, ultra-violent (UV) rays are still beaming down. Make sure to use a sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB exposure (both are linked to premature aging and skin cancer).

 

3. Exfoliate. Removing excess dead skin cells from your face can reveal a younger and healthier-looking one underneath. Make exfoliation a once a week routine!

 

4. Watch the humidity. While humidity is an inescapable reality for Tampa residents, keeping the heat on at night may dry out your home and your face. If you have to keep it on, run a humidifier before you go to bed and as you sleep. It will help your skin stay supple.

 

5. Drink…water that is. Dehydration is an age accelerator and an estimated 75 percent of Americans are chronically dehydrated. Many sources indicate this can be prevented by drinking as little as eight glasses or 64 ounces of non-carbonated, non-caffeinated liquids a day. You may even try some herbal tea, as it’s known to help give skin a warm glow, even as temperatures dip.

 

6. Oil in and oil out. Organic flaxseed oil is a natural way to moisturize your body from the inside out. It’s available in capsules and pill form at the grocery store. Taken internally, it’s said to lower the risk of heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis and a variety of other health ailments. Using it externally, perhaps by adding a few drops of jojoba or sweet almond oil to your bath, can moisturize your skin as you relax and enjoy some me time.

 

For optimal skin, it’s recommended that you recieve a facial once-a-month. For something new (depending on skin type), you might consider a pumpkin enzyme purifying facial for deep pore cleansing, a hydrated vita-mineral facial for vitamin enriched moisturizing or an anti-aging glycolic peel to reduce and eliminate wrinkles and discoloration.

 

Whether you’re a man or woman, and whether you live in the UC or abroad, don’t neglect your skin during winter. Even if you can’t find time to have a monthly facial, try these six simple, do-it-yourself tips. They can help your skin look great throughout 2008.

 

About the Author:

Elizabeth Graham is the proprietor of Forever Beautiful Salon and Day Spa (5135 N. Florida Ave.) and is its lead facialist. Established in a converted historic home, Forever Beautiful has been at the forefront of the UC’s revitalization efforts and recently won the area’s Beautification Award and Best Neighborhood Business Award. To contact Elizabeth, call (813) 231-3378 or visit www.ForeverBeautiful.us.