Winter weather can be harsh on our skin and for many leads to an increase in dryness and redness. However sometimes this isn’t just dryness and can be a sign of deeper issues occurring in the skin. But how do you tell the difference and what steps should be taken to treat and prevent this? In this post I will break down the difference between dry skin and damaged skin so you can glow all winter long.
What’s the difference
Dry and damaged skin can often look very similar on the surface however they are very different within the skin.
Dry skin is a genetic trait some people have. It’s caused by low production of naturally occurring oils in the skin which may cause over retention of dead dry skin cells. This can lead to a tight feeling in the skin and flakey buildup on the surface. Most people with a dry skin type will feel this year-round, though it may be slightly better or worse at certain times of year. Dry skin is perfectly healthy and does not impact one’s ability to receive advanced treatments. With the guidance of a skin professional it’s an easy concern to manage.
Damaged skin can look and feel very similar to dry skin. There may be an increase in flakey build up and that same tight feeling. With damaged skin there is usually also an increase in redness across the affected areas, a dull appearance, and potentially cracked skin or scabbing. Often damaged skin is healthy skin that was dried out by external factors like aggressive products, dry weather, or even medications and never rehydrated. The biggest difference between dry skin and damaged skin is sensitivity. Dry skin does not mean sensitive skin, but damaged skin will be very sensitized. This is because the barrier between the outside world and the inner layers of skin has been impaired. An impaired barrier allows the much needed moisture out of the skin which only makes the concern worse. It also allows active ingredients to be absorbed much quicker than a healthy barrier which causes increased sensitivity. This makes treating it a little more complex but very simple if you follow the guidelines of a skin professional.
How to treat
Dry Skin
When treating dry skin, it’s important to have a balanced routine. Not every product needs to be a gentle hydrating product. It’s still necessary to exfoliate to manage the buildup of dead skin cells. For dry skin I recommend a monthly dermaplane facial paired with a balanced home care routine. The facial will set your skin on the right path so your products at home can have maximum efficacy. Some products I recommend for use on dry skin are: Calming cleanser or Age Defying Cleansing Cream, Facial Radiance Polish or Gentle Resurfacing Pads, Hydrate and Plump Serum, and Hydroboost. Following the recommendations for dry skin can also work great for prevention of damaged skin throughout the dry months.
Damaged Skin
When treating damaged skin you will want to focus on two things: keeping the skin clean and keeping the skin hydrated. It’s important to avoid exfoliating products while the skin is healing as that will only worsen the condition of the skin. I also recommend holding off on any advanced in office treatments. Depending on the condition of the skin, a signature or refresher facial can be beneficial during the healing process as these treatments are fully customizable and can be very soothing. However, the most important treatment is consistent at home product use. Start with a basic routine. I recommend using our Calming Cleanser, Hydrate and Plump Serum, BioTherapy Repair and Restore in the evening, and Daily Moisturizer with Sunscreen in the morning. It can even be beneficial to reapply moisturizer throughout the day if the skin begins to feel tight again. Once the skins barrier has healed, the tight feeling is gone, and redness in the skin has faded, then you can begin exfoliation to treat any buildup and keep your skin on the right track. Start gentle, speak with your skin care provider and see what treatments would suit your skin best. You may also be able to add some mild exfoliants to your home care, such as our Age Defying Cleansing Cream which has 10% glycolic acid for light treatment. Once the buildup is cleared you may return to a treatment and product regimen customized to your skin at its baseline. This will look different for everyone and works best when it’s recommended by a skin professional.
Final thoughts
Don’t let this winter dull your glow! Stop by our office for any products, no appointment is needed. If you have any questions or you’re looking to treat your skin this winter, book with me at Lake Country Plastic and Hand surgery. A signature facial is the best way to start so I can get to know you and your skin.
