Winter Wellness for Your Skin
When the seasons change, so do we.
According to ancient Ayurveda, India’s indigenous holistic healing system, our bodies need different things at different times of the year to maintain balance and vitality. As the seasons change, so do we. During winter, our body’s metabolism tends to slow down and become more sluggish. Many feel almost like hibernating when the sun sets earlier in the day, and the temperatures are colder. The slower rhythm can result in congestion in the lungs and respiratory system, including sluggish skin, slower circulation and blood flow to the tissues, and decreased oxygen to the cells. Depression is more common when sunlight exposure is reduced, and the days get darker earlier. When we attune to the rhythms of nature and the seasonal fluctuations, we understand that there are cycles in our bodies that impact vital organ function and overall wellbeing.
The body needs to maintain balance during the winter months by warming the bones, stimulating circulation, supporting immune resilience, and decongesting. Brightening the energy for mental well-being is important, too. Our skin needs extra attention to combat dehydration and dullness during the cold winter months.
Here are our Ranch Tips for winter wellness for your skin. Follow this regimen for vibrant, radiant skin. (Do you want to say “from our Ranch spa and wellness expert Tara Grodjesk[CH1] “? Or do you want me to author the blog post?)
1. Our first principle is that the skin’s radiance comes from within. Ayurvedic philosophy says that “the skin is a mirror of our internal health” and “good digestion is the key to optimal health.” Winter is a great time to refocus on good digestion and healthy eating habits. Our Ranch guidelines are to reduce alcohol, caffeine, sweets, fried or processed foods, and excessive dairy to reduce congestion. Doesn’t that sound like setting good New Year’s Intentions?! Ayurveda also says that Warm, cooked foods vs. raw and cold foods are best during the cold winter season. Soups are easier to digest and can be packed with nutrition. (link to Ranch Soup recipes?)
2. Cleanse and Exfoliate– The colder weather and forced air heating systems in the home and in our cars, dry out our skin. After cleansing to remove makeup, sunscreen, or environmental debris, it’s important to exfoliate gently daily to slough off dead skin cells and renew the surface layer. La Puerta Core Essentials Skin Care product recommendation: botanical herbal exfoliant (check name) made of pure, dried herbs and botanicals to gently cleanse and exfoliate, or the Bamboo Face Polish in a crème base is also effective without irritating the skin. Gentle exfoliation also prepares the skin for better absorption of nourishing oils that reduce dryness, feed the skin, and soften and condition. Do not use facial scrubs with silicon beads, walnut shells or other synthetic or in dissolvable particles that can tear the skin’s delicate tissues.
3. Nourish– After cleansing and exfoliation, your skin is ready to absorb nourishing oils that penetrate the dermis’ fatty layers, helping keep the skin soft and supple. Facial oils can also carry therapeutic essential oils that deliver benefits such as calming redness, decongesting, tonifying, and cell renewal. Essential oils such as chamomile, lavender, or rose to soothe redness and irritations. Carrot seed aids cell rejuvenation, and peppermint and rosemary help to decongest. Never use essential oils undiluted, as they are concentrated and very strong. The Ranch Core Essentials skincare collection offers a range of facial oils for different skin conditions, all in a base of organic jojoba oil, which is a natural moisturizer and skin balancer.
4. Moisturize and Protect– Moisture creams and lotions help the skin retain hydration and continue to condition and soften the skin. A cream is richer in texture and is the “go-to” for the chapped and dry conditions from winter weather. Our favorite botanical for dry and chapped conditions is Calendula. Calendula has been used in natural medicine for even diaper rash. It soothes any reddened or irritated skin condition, so it’s perfect for face and body care. La Puerta Core Essentials product recommendation: Calendula Moisture Cream in a shea butter base blended with botanicals that soothe and soften the skin.
5. Skincare is not just face care- Sometimes we think skincare is just for the face, but remember your skin is the interface between your whole body and the environment, and it needs nourishment too! Body oils are one of the best ways to condition, nourish, and moisturize your skin. Apply body oils onto moist skin after showering and bathing, and they will absorb well without a heavy, greasy feel. La Puerta Core Essentials Product Recommendation: Body Oils are available in Eucalyptus, Lavender, Rosemary, Mountain Sage, and Lemongrass. Each has different therapeutic benefits, but all the organic base oils soften, condition, and moisturize your skin.
Follow these skin care tips daily, and your skin will reflect its natural radiance and beauty through the Winter Season. At the Ranch we learn about the many facets of wellness lifestyle. Having a personal-care practice that incorporates a skin care regimen, is an essential element in supporting your wholistic wellbeing.
