Maintaining healthy skin throughout the year is crucial, regardless of your location in Canada. Whether you’re situated in the north, south, east, or west, it’s essential to select a skincare regime that caters to your needs.

High Altitudes and Dry Air

If you’re residing in the mountains or the northern regions of Canada, you’re likely familiar with the effects of biting winds and arid air. Before stepping outside, be sure to generously apply a natural occlusive moisturizer, like beeswax or cocoa butter, to help lock in your skin’s moisture. Don protective gloves, wrap a scarf around your face, and maneuver against the wind to keep your natural hydration intact.

For those who love outdoor activities like skiing or hiking, remember that the sun can damage your skin even in freezing temperatures, just as it does in summer. Use proper sun protection. For a comforting at-home remedy, steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water and then lean over the bowl, covering your head with a towel to capture the steam. Finish with a rich moisturizer like sweet almond or jojoba oil.

The Coastal Climate

Although Vancouver enjoys milder temperatures than much of Canada, winter still calls for adjustments to your skincare routine. The city’s damp, cool winters can lead to significant moisture loss from your skin.

Chapped lips and hands are frequent issues during this season, and eczema flare-ups may be worse. Skin may also display redness or uneven tones. Help soothe your skin with ingredients like oat extract, vitamin E, lavender, and rose. For a delightful facial treatment, blend half a pure cucumber with 3 Tbsp (45 mL) of plain yogurt, apply it to your skin, and rinse off with cool water after 15 minutes.

Areas with Heavy Snowfall

When shoveling snow, ensure that you’re bundled up properly to shield your skin from the cold and wind. Upon returning indoors, take time to adjust to the temperature gradually rather than rushing into the warmth of a fireplace.

Winter can exacerbate skin sensitivity issues such as eczema and rosacea, so treat your skin gently with extracts from mallow, cucumber, or calendula. Use gentle, soap-free cleansing milks with healing aloe vera and calming chamomile. Follow up with a moisturizer rich in essential fatty acids derived from primrose or borage oils.

A Winter Dry Spell

Despite the presence of precipitation, whether rain or snow, Canada experiences significant dryness during winter. The combination of chilly outdoor temperatures and drying indoor heating can be detrimental to your skin. Counteract this by using a humidifier in your bedroom, and consider adding houseplants to help restore moisture to the environment.

Steer clear of skincare products that contain alcohol, and consider incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil, into your daily regimen to enhance your skin’s hydration capacity. Also, remember to stay well-hydrated and avoid scalding temperatures in your showers, as hot water can strip away the natural lipids that protect your skin’s moisture barrier.

Traveling and Skin Care

As February rolls around, Canadians start dreaming of warmer vacations. While soaking up sunshine is beneficial for both body and soul, sudden climate shifts can be challenging for your skin.

Start caring for your complexion as soon as you board your flight. The air on planes is notoriously dry, which can lead to thirsty skin before you even land. Apply a thick occlusive moisturizer, like coconut oil, to keep your skin hydrated during the flight.

Due to the heat and humidity of tropical destinations, switch to lighter skincare products, as your skin may produce more oil in warmer climates. Maintain cleanliness to avoid breakouts, and seek out moisturizers containing humectants like hyaluronic acid to draw moisture from the air.

Lastly, practice safe sun habits. Natural sunblocks made with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are great choices. Consume a diet rich in antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E, and sip on green tea. Don a wide-brimmed hat and seek shade during peak sun hours.