7 Tips To Keep Your Skin Glowing All Winter Long

If you’re a mature woman, attaining and maintaining glowing skin is more of a challenge than ever. Changing hormones, living a full life, and the normal aging process all affect radiance and tone. You want to look in the mirror and see the wisdom and vitality of your years reflected in your skin, but bringing out that glow might seem daunting — especially in the winter. Don’t be discouraged! Now more than any other time, your inner health and consistent self-care will show; there’s a lot you can control. Here are several tips to keep yourself glowing all winter long.

1. Hydrate

Did you know that the majority of your skin cells are water? Keeping them plump by staying hydrated will make a huge difference in how your skin “fills out” and reflects light. Two liters a day is the usual recommendation, but it varies according to weight. Monitor your intake to make sure you’re getting at least that much, plus additional electrolytes as you need them. In the winter, it’s easier to get dehydrated without knowing it, so stay alert. Sufficient hydration also stimulates metabolism and all body processes, sweeping out toxins and regulating appetite. Don’t forget to hydrate from the outside in, too. After bathing or washing your face, seal in the moisture with a rich cream or oil.

2. Nourish

As much as you can, be sure that everything you put in your body is beneficial. Consume a diet of nutrient-dense, fresh foods — light on sugar and heavy on vegetables and low-glycemic fruits. Stay in the “outside aisles” as much as possible when you shop for groceries. Don’t forget probiotics! These can be taken in supplement form or in a variety of drinks like Kombucha.

If you’re middle-aged or older, it’s especially important to combat free radicals that can lead to inflammation in the body. Antioxidants found in colorful vegetables and selected supplements can help. Nourishing from the outside in is helpful, too. There are a variety of serums, creams, and oils that contain vitamins (like vitamin C) and acids (like hyaluronic acid) that penetrate and promote a glowing, healthy look.

3. Exfoliate

As you get older, you might notice that the rate of skin renewal slows down. It’s a good idea to help the process along. There are various ways to go about it: manual exfoliation (washcloth, face brush, or scrub) or chemical exfoliation (using chemical peels, hydroxy acids, or other agents). If you have sensitive skin, start with a gentle approach and intensify as your skin tolerates it. You’ll notice a big improvement in the tone and texture of your skin. Maintain your hydrating and nourishing as you exfoliate.

4. Stimulate

As you get older, keep up the activities that stimulate your skin. Regular exercise and massage are two key ways to cultivate health and boost your glow. Find the types of exercise and massage that you enjoy and can do consistently. Check with your health practitioner for guidance. Especially in the winter, get outdoors (with plenty of layers) and move as much as you can. Vitamin D from the sun will help your skin and immune system, and being outdoors in nature has numerous physical and emotional benefits. It’s both stimulating and restorative.

Consider giving self-massage a try, too; even yoga-style face movements can help to release tension and bring nourishing blood flow to your skin. If you want to go the medical route, Ultherapy is a less-invasive way to stimulate collagen under the skin and tighten sagging and wrinkles.

5. Protect

Using sunscreen? Be sure you are — it’s never too late. Although sunlight is beneficial, it also encourages wrinkling and hyperpigmentation. Read labels carefully and choose skincare products that contain a broad-spectrum sunscreen (with protection against both UVA and UVB rays). Include your neck, upper chest, and other exposed parts of your body for the best results.

6. Connect

Staying connected with and invested in a supportive friend/family community is one of the most powerful ways to stay lively and glowing. The effort is worth it. Stay in contact with dear friends, and spend no-agenda, fun time together — whether it’s in person, on the phone, or over video chat. They don’t have to be elaborate or drawn-out meetings; studies show that simple, positive connections improve health and increase longevity. As well, join Honey’s Private Facebook group, GRANDwomen with Moxie if you’re looking for a great online group to join for women over 50.

7. Rest

Along with regular connection, get some rest! Your skin will look rejuvenated when you wake up because it undergoes repair and renewal during sleep. If you’re in a sleep-deprivation situation, address the issue as thoroughly as you can. While you sleep, use a skin product specially formulated for nighttime repair.

Having and keeping a healthy glow in the winter takes intentionality and a focus on whole-body health. Try these tips for a radiant winter.

What are your best tips and tricks for glowing skin during the winter months? Let us know in the comments at the bottom of this page. We want to hear from you!