By February you’re getting good at facing winter. But frigid, dry air can take a toll on your skin. Tips from local aestheticians mean you won’t have to hide your face behind a ski mask.
Kristin Humke, RN at the Edina Plastic Surgery Skin Clinic and MJ Harden of Spalon Montage agree: exfoliation is a No. 1 priority. With regular exfoliation, products you use will penetrate better. Humke recommends using a sonic cleanser like the Clarisonic Mia 2 ($149) for two to three minutes every day. Harden cautions against granular exfoliants because scrubbing beads can exacerbate skin irritation. For a better outcome, try an exfoliating mask with a digestive effect. At Spalon Montage you can find Phytomer vegetal peel (1.6 oz. $39.50). It features kaolin and seaweed to absorb impurities, along with active enzyme papain, which “chomps up dead skin like a Pac-Man,” Harden says. “Put it on in the shower, while you’re shaving your legs.”
Tina Schaeberg of Lili Salon Spa recommends layering up with Vivite Replenish Hydrating Cream (2 oz. $50). Schaeberg recommends applying an ultra-hydrating mask with shea butter and antioxidants before sitting down for an episode of your favorite TV show. In 15 to 30 minutes, the mask will reveal plumper, softer skin.
For overall hydration, naturally occuring hyaluronic acid holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Skin Ceuticals B5 Hydrating Gel (1 oz. $83.67) is an oil-free product ideal for all skin types. Remember , when using these high-caliber products, a little goes a long way.
