Climbing Out of Winter Hibernation: Part 1—Spring Skin

Spring is a time of renewal. We see it in nature, in fashion, and certainly in our beauty routines. Now's the time to bring ourselves out of winter hibernation and freshen up. But where to start? Considering the toll winter's cold, wind, and dryness takes on it, your skin is the perfect place. 

Unfortunately, not everyone has the luxury of getting the recommended monthly facials throughout the year. If you can't, then you should make it imperative when the seasons change. After the dull, dry winter, an ultrasonic facial is just what the skin ordered. These special treatments use sound wave technology to penetrate deep below the surface of the skin. They promote cellular renewal and repair, tone muscles, increase blood circulation, encourage lymphatic drainage, combat puffiness and swelling, and improve skin care product penetration. 

Just like our wardrobe, our products should get rotated when the new season comes. Very few products can or should be used all year round in our climate. Start by going through everything in your bathroom and getting rid of anything expired or questionable. If you are unsure of what will work best for you in warmer months vs. colder months, talk to your aesthetician. She will help you find the best regimen to suit your needs and desires.

Sun protection should be used every day to protect against skin cancer and aging, so don't only reserve it for beach days. Many great facial day creams have SPF 15 or higher these days, and choosing Broad Spectrum lotion ensures your skin will be protected from both UVA and UVB rays. When applying, make sure to get your neck, ears, the backs of your hands, and any other exposed areas. On days you are outside a lot, throw it in your bag to reapply every few hours. 

Nothing says adios to winter like a bronzed glow, but tanning, whether by bed, box, or natural sunlight, is terribly dangerous. This has forced self- and spray-tan products to improve by leaps and bounds over the past few years, however. Now you can get a coveted sun-kissed look and save your skin from cancer and aging without fear of looking like an Umpa Lumpa. Remember to protect your clothes from staining and avoid water after applicaton.

Now is also a great time to renew your makeup. Foundations should be less heavy, oil-free, and even add to your sun protection. Shimmery bronzers are great accents to enhace a glowing face when swept across the cheek and brow bones. Eye and lip colors certainly get brighter and much more fun to play with this time of year. If you're nervous about using bright colors, don't be. Simply blend the shadow well with a brush or your fingertip and choose a gloss over a lipstick for more subtle fun. Uplifting, long lashes are the secret to fresh, no effort faces. Invest in eyelash extensions to ditch the mascara (and possible raccoon eyes) and truly have a no daily maintenance, get-up-and-go face.

Now, go fluff off the winter and get your spring skin on! And stay tuned until next week for great ways to renew your hair style!