Dealing with Dull Winter Skin

The truth of the matter is that dry winter skin is inevitable when you live in changing climates. Your winter facial and body beauty routines have to change accordingly or suffer the ill effects of winter. Here are a few tips for transforming dull winter skin into a sparkling season.

Prepping your skin

If you can't afford micro abrasion, than a simple facial and body loofah mitt will do just fine; these run for only about $.99 to $4, respectively. The rough texture of these loofah mitts, when wet and lathered with your body wash or daily facial wash, will rub off dried skin; you will see a revival in your skin with daily use.

Lotions

In addition to exfoliation, you will need a good lotion. For your face, choose one with a SPF protection of at least 15, because winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun. Olay, Clean & Clear, and Eucerin are all good winter skin options at affordable prices; they aren't too heavy or greasy and go well under makeup.

For you body, go for something heavy and long lasting, like a body butter. If you love seasonal fragrances, you can find a whole line of Bath & Body Works lotions in everything from cool peppermint to warm gingerbread. Go easy on perfumes, because the alcohol in them can reverse the effects of your lotions. A simple scented lotion will be the perfect moisturizer and "perfume" for the entire season, with functionality.

Foundations

Even if you have left over tan from the summer, your winter skin is always lighter. Thus, your winter foundation should be a few shades lighter than your summer one for a more natural glow. Look for thin, liquid foundations (like Almay or Mabeline liquid foundations) and apply it directly to your face with your fingers; this makes the finished blending appear more natural than if you were to use a sponge, which absorbs most of the foundation before you even apply it. You can also use your summer foundation in combination with your lighter shade by only applying it over your nose, forehead, chin, and cheek bones, blending it well with the lighter shade underneath.

Powder

Seal your foundation with a translucent compressed powder (they come in silver as well as natural colors for a special glow). A 'fluffy' puff is better than the thin imitations, because it won't cake the powder or apply too much for a flaky appearance.

Lips

Your lips will suffer the brunt of the storm. Lipsticks can cause your lips to split as they dry up on your mouth. Instead, be practical and fashionable by mixing a chapstick or medicated lip balm with a lip pencil that matches your natural lips well. Celebrity winter lips are in natural colors this season with just a little gloss to sparkle. Avoid licking or biting your lips and keep the chapstick slicked on and you'll have great well-conditioned lips until spring.

Eyebrows

If you want to make your face appear fresh, your eyebrows are your greatest assets. Don't over pluck them, but maintain a 'clean' condition by keeping up with strays. But what if your eyebrows are too light or have gaps? The makers of Bare Escentuals makeup have come up with a great solution. Their eyebrow kits are the best way to perk up your eyebrows naturally. Just choose your color and apply tinted minerals to your brows for a darker, sharper, more elegant look; it will fill in gaps and brighten like magic!

And don't forget to cover your face with a scarf when you brave the wintry weather. This simple and versatile accessory will keep your face rosy by blocking harmful winds from reaching your face and lips. So, bundle up and enjoy your seasonal sparkle.