Winter is the time for sub zero whether; a time when your skin gets flaky and looks dull and unhealthy. It is also the festive season and hence you need to gear up and look your best. In order to do this you need to first start with a good skin care regime. This will ensure that you look like the bell of the ball with minimal makeup.

Avoid harsh cleansers during winter; alcohol based or soap based cleansers strip the skin of their natural oils and water hence liquid cleansers are the best. They moisturize at the same time ensure that the skin is clear of all dust and pollution. After cleansing your skin you need to moisturize it well. You may choose to use a vitamin E based oil or lotion; the choice is yours.

Almond oil is the best for you though if you are using a cream then make sure it is of the same base but does not have a perfume in it as the chances of skin irritation is high with the latter. Your hands, elbows and knees suffer the most during the colder months of the year. It leads to dry and flaky skin and also white patches. The best time to use a moisturizer is after a warm bath; at this time your skin is soft and is able to absorb most of the nutrients from the cream or lotion. At night use Vaseline on your hands; the intense oils in the gel keep your hands soft and smooth.

Use a thin layer of moisturizer on your face; tinted moisturizers work well. You could also apply a thin layer on your neck and even it out. In this way you must blend the moisturizers into your skin. Massaging the oils into your skin ensures that your skin benefits from the oil.

Though you are in the midst of winter you still need to use sunscreen. These days there are many moisturizing lotions with inbuilt sunscreens; these work well. Apply evenly about 20 minutes before you leave the house for it to be effective. Remember the sun’s reflection on the snow is bound to cause some degree of sunburn so it’s best to protect your skin. Use your sunglasses too.

While protecting your skin don’t forget your hair. Use a serum to keep your hair shiny and healthy and also use a scarf to protect your hair. When you wash your hair make sure that you blow it dry to prevent the water from affecting your health and leading to a common cold.