Your Skin Called, It’s Time For A Winter Refresh

The weather’s getting colder, and we’re pulling out the scarves and coats, but what about your skin? 

I was in the car driving the other day, and the warm air from the vent was blasting on my face. And I immediately thought:

 “It’s Time” - Mariah Carey's voice.”

It’s time to transition to my winter skincare routine. It's not all that different than the year-round stuff, but I do a few extra things that I know your skin will love, too. 

As the humidity drops and you turn up the heat, your skin is naturally more prone to dryness and sensitivity. This season, let’s focus on habits and treatments that keep our skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing. 

Here’s a little winter skincare guide. 

1. Make Hydration a Habit – Inside & Out

When you think winter skincare I’m sure you think:

You:  “Oh, I’ll just use a heavier moisturizer cream.” 

Me: “No, ma'am! There’s more to it”

Now, don’t get me wrong, that is important, but let me offer some extra suggestions. 

Hydration really does start from the inside, and you can give your skin hydration while you’re both awake and asleep! Hear me out. 

Drinking plenty of water is a classic suggestion, but have you considered adding a humidifier to your bedroom or workspace? It helps keep the air (and your skin) from drying out as much. 

Tip: I know it’s almost winter, but don’t skip the SPF! UV rays still sneak through in winter, and protecting your skin daily is essential for maintaining that healthy barrier.

2. At-Home Treatments for Your Winter Glow-Up

If you want your skin to glow, you must do two things: Hydrate and exfoliate. Say it with me: “Hydrate and Exfoliate.” 

If you don't get anything from this week’s newsletter, just know that I want you to focus on hydration and exfoliation. 

Setting good winter skincare habits doesn't have to be expensive or inconvenient. The next few tips can all be done in the comfort of your home. Plus, having a little spa moment at home is such a vibe!

Nothing like an iPad and bubble bath

One great way to gently exfoliate and hydrate is with an at-home face mask. For winter, opt for hydrating overnight masks. It’s great because as you recharge your body, your skin gets some good ole TLC while you sleep.

Reserve this for your “me night” lol 

STOP WASHING YOUR FACE WITH YOUR HANDS!

Don’t side-eye me; side-eye my dermatologist Dr. Natasha Sandy. She says “washing your face with your hands is like brushing your teeth with your fingers.” isit South Africa one day?

(drops mic)

Every time I wash my face, I use a new white washcloth that is slightly textured. Not the fancy ones with the high thread count, but the 6-pack set you had in college.

My favorite washcloth set is the 6pk from Target for $3 bucks! You can’t beat it.

Tip: Be gentle; we are not scrubbing our face. Slow, gentle circle motions are perfect.  

FEELING FANCY? WHY YOU SHOULD TREAT YOURSELF TO AN ENZYME POWDER

So, let’s talk about enzyme-exfoliating powders.

They’re kind of amazing! Basically, these powders use natural enzymes—think papaya and pineapple—to gently dissolve the dead skin on your face. No scrubbing, no harsh beads, just enzymes doing their thing and breaking down those dead cells. It’s like a mini facial but way easier on your skin!

Here’s the cool part: instead of rough, gritty bits, you just add a little water to the powder, and it foams up. That way, it’s super gentle and perfect for anyone who finds regular scrubs too rough. And because it only works on the very top layer of your skin, it’s way less likely to cause irritation or redness. It’s gentle enough that you could even use it a few times a week without your skin freaking out.

Oh, and these powders often come with hydrating extras, like hyaluronic acid or green tea, so you’re left with soft, refreshed skin that’s actually moisturized. It’s like a mini skin reset that you can just add to your routine whenever you need a quick pick-me-up! 

Are you convinced? Try the one from Amorepacific 

(It's an investment, but you won’t regret it. Plus, it will last you a long time). 

Tip: Consider using a steamy washcloth to open up pores before applying any mask or treatment, and enjoy a mini steam session at home (it’s like giving your skin a warm hug).

3. Med Spa Magic – Perfect Time for Skin Treatments

Ok, sis, we can’t stay in the house all winter. Let’s hop in the car and head to one of my favorite self-care headquarters. THE MED SPA! 

Let me tell you why I love med spas. It’s like a skin-and-bodycare candy store for adults. 

Winter is actually a great time for certain skin treatments, especially if you’ve been thinking about laser treatments or peels. 

Why, you ask? In the winter, your skin will be exposed to less sun (making recovery easier). 

Here are some of my favorite medspa treatments for my winter skincare routine:

• Laser Hair Removal: Best investment I have ever made. Since we’re covering up, now’s the time to start laser hair removal. The series usually takes a few sessions for the best results, and you’ll be ready for smooth skin come spring!

Skin Lasers & Light Therapy: Laser skin resurfacing can help with fine lines, pigmentation, and even some acne scarring. Another great option is LED light therapy, which is gentle and perfect for stimulating collagen production and calming any irritation or redness.

If you’re in the Washington, D.C. metro area, visit Capital Aesthetic and Laser Center 

That’s where I get my laser hair removal, botox, fillers, facials, and Emscuplt Neo.  (Ask to speak to Denise and tell her I sent you). They’re amazing with personalized consultations and have great seasonal treatments that cater to specific winter skin needs.

4. Avoid Super Hot Showers: Restorative Skin Habits

Okay, let’s chat about hot showers and why they’re secretly a bit of a no-no for your skin—especially in the winter! 

I know, I know…there’s literally nothing better than a steaming hot shower when it’s cold outside. But those long, hot showers you love are actually drying out your skin big time.

Here’s the deal: Hot water strips away your skin’s natural oils faster than lukewarm water would. Your natural oils are what keep our skin soft, hydrated, and protected. 

When we rinse them away, it’s like leaving our skin defenseless, especially in colder months when your skin’s already struggling to hold onto moisture. So, if you’re noticing extra dryness or itchiness, your hot shower habit might be why.

Tip: If you’re annoyed that you can't take super hot showers, try a towel warmer for an extra cozy post-shower wrap! Finish each shower with a quick splash of cool water to help close your pores and lock in moisture – your skin will love the boost.

Oops, one more thing… 

Always, always, always moisturize your body as soon as you get out of the shower! 

That’s when your skin is most ready to lock in all that hydration, so grab your favorite lotion or cream and slather it on while your skin is still a bit damp. Trust me, it makes all the difference in keeping skin soft and smooth.

Winter Skin, but Make It Glowy

So, as we dive into this cozy season, let’s keep our skin feeling fresh, not fatigued. Your skin deserves a little reset, and trust me, a few simple habits can make all the difference. 

The holidays are around the corner; we aren’t thirty and neither is our skin. 

Your big or little sis,

Tiffany 

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I always moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. It's so important to take care of your skin, to treat it well, and to know that it’s an investment in yourself." -Naomi Campbell

PRODUCT OF THE WEEK

Remember we talked about locking in hydration right after the shower? Here are my favorite moisturizers: 

On A Budget Option $: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream

 (you can use this on your face and body; its sooooo good)

Oh, she’s bougie! My Treat Yourself Option $$$: Kiehl's Since 1851 Creme de Corps Body Moisturizer