The harsh conditions of the winter months certainly do not support our beauty goals. After moving to New York City, I have completely lost any semblance of a California base tan and have seen a dull effect on my skin. The combination of frigid temperatures, environmental pollution and the lack of sunshine is far from ideal for complexion, not to mention mood.
I have been doing everything possible to restore the glow, and rejuvenate my skin. From nutritional upgrades to cutting out toxins that affect hormone balance, there are several easy ways we can enhance our regime. These tips provide quick results from a physical beauty standpoint, while setting up the body to enhance longevity.
DIY Facials
Cold Therapy
It may sound counterintuitive in winter, but acute cold temperatures actually have an immediate effect of making us look awake and refreshed. Since Zoom calls seem like they’re here to stay, I will take all the tricks I can get to look like a superstar on camera. Right before applying creams or makeup, I will take an ice cube or frozen jade roller and glide it under my eyes and along my cheeks in an upward direction, applying slight pressure. This process boosts circulation, creates an awake look and minimizes dark circles.
Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid
Gone are the days of drinking several glasses of orange juice to up the levels of vitamin C. The copious amount of sugar alone would negate any benefit. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant when it comes to both immunity and skincare. The vitamin works as an incredible tool for repairing cell damage and synthesizing collagen. One quick way to maximize the benefits is to pair a vitamin C serum with a hyaluronic acid. This product helps bring water to the surface of the skin, giving a natural glow. It also works hand in hand with vitamin C to hydrate the skin.
Body Scrubs
Brown Sugar + Coconut Oil
No matter how much lotion we apply to our skin, it can still look dull if there are topical dead skin cells that have not been removed. One simply DIY body scrub that feels amazing, and smells like sugar cookies is the brown sugar and coconut oil scrub. Combine ½ cup coconut oil and ¼ cup brown sugar. Rub in a circular motion along the entire body. Rinse and repeat daily.
Dry Brushing
A dry brush could be one of the best tools I have ever used to reduce the appearance of my cellulite. The tool can be purchased online or in most spas (simply type in dry brush). I use it when I wake up before showering. Simply hold the brush and make circular motions up the body, starting with the feet. Add gentle pressure. Shift the brush from the legs to the arms, all moving toward the heart. In addition to leaving the skin feeling soft, the motion also provides a quick boost in energy, stimulating circulation.
Nutritional Upgrades
Increase Healthy Fats
The cell walls are made up of fat and rely on the consumption of nutritional fats to create youthful mitochondria (powerhouse of the cells). You can think of youthful skin being powered by fuels like olive oil, olives, wild caught fish, nuts, seeds, organic eggs, grass fed beef, chia seeds and avocados. The more healthy fat the better.
Decrease Processed Foods
In addition to increasing healthy fats, it can be very beneficial to decrease the inflammatory oils and sugars in the diet. This comes in the form of most packaged foods. Look at the ingredient list- if it has sunflower oil, safflower oil, brown rice syrup, corn oil or peanut oil, it is not going to be supportive of beauty. These oils cause inflammation in the body, slow down cellular turnover and create toxic buildup.
Environmental Toxins
Swap Staples
Take inventory of your body wash, moisturizers and household cleaning products. There can be hidden toxins in these products that create a harmful imbalance to our delicate hormone system. In addition to causing issues for our mood and energy, these chemicals can stand in the way of bright, beautiful skin. This is a very helpful list of products to look out for in skincare and household items- https://www.tataharperskincare.com/journal/the-toxic-ten/?rmsrc=1&utm_id=go_cmp-18062638741_adg-141095000358_ad-616817512997_dsa-1645137429091_dev-t_ext-_prd-_mca-_sig-EAIaIQobChMIg4_pvumu_QIVYwp9Ch3gvwv4EAAYAiAAEgI93PD_BwE&utm_source=google&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIg4_pvumu_QIVYwp9Ch3gvwv4EAAYAiAAEgI93PD_BwE
As always, please reach out to me if you have questions or any suggested topics for next blog! Would love to connect on Instagram for daily wellness and beauty- @noratobin