As autumn transitions into winter, we enter the coldest part of the year, the air becomes frigid, and strong winds can batter the skin. This changeover can lead the skin to become prone to persistent dryness, inflammation, and peeling. It also prompts the T-zone area of your face to produce excess oil. For many people, the holiday season is a time to indulge (perhaps a little too much) in rich meals, sugary snacks, and alcohol, but this doesn’t always bode well for your complexion either. Cosmetic dermatology treatments from Albuquerque’s Western Dermatology Consultants can help save yours skin from the damaging effects of early winter and beyond.

In addition to rushing around to get everything done at work, it can also be stressful having to organize family events, plan dinners, shop for gifts, and put up festive decorations as you try to make everything perfect for the holidays. If you work in retail or hospitality, long shifts, crowds, and difficult interactions with customers can put a damper on your holiday spirit. It’s no surprise that when the seasonal blues set in, post-New Year’s Eve skin is often riddled with breakouts. There are, however, ways of safeguarding your skin!

Stay Hydrated

Alcohol is a diuretic and can cause your skin to quickly become dehydrated. Drink plenty of water and upgrade your moisturizing routine. Choose a richer cream containing hyaluronic acid (a natural gel-like sugar that is able to retain large quantities of water) or ceramides (lipids that maintain the skin’s barrier).

Try Chemical Peels

Chemical peels remove the outer layer of dry, cracked, and damaged skin. A solution is applied to the outer surface, causing it to shed away, and new, healthier skin to take its place. The darker, shorter days and cooler temperatures during this time are less irritating to skin after this treatment, which is more conducive to healing.

Use Laser Treatments

Lasers are great for improving skin damage acquired during the earlier half of the year. Treatments stimulate collagen production and cell turnover for a fresher look. Much like chemical peels, sun exposure is bad for laser results, so the fall and winter are preferred times for this technique.

Want to discover more about your options at Western Dermatology Consultants? For general inquiries or to schedule an appointment for skincare treatments in Albuquerque, call 505-855-5503 or contact us online.