Winter blues: How to protect your skin from the harsh effects of the season
As winter sets in and the days get shorter, we often experience a drop in energy and mood. These feelings are commonly known as the winter blues, and they can have adverse effects not only on our mental health but also on our skin. In this article, we’ll look at how the winter blues affect our skin and what we can do to protect it.
What are the winter blues?
The winter blues are a common phenomenon characterized by low energy, mood changes, and increased appetite. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) classifies this condition as “seasonal affective disorder” (SAD) and states that it affects around 5% of the population. SAD is a more severe form of the winter blues and can cause feelings of hopelessness and thoughts of suicide.
What causes the winter blues?
The underlying cause of the winter blues is the reduction of daylight hours during the fall and winter months. This decrease in sunlight disrupts the body’s natural circadian rhythm, which regulates our sleep-wake cycle. As a result, we experience fatigue, depression, and other mood changes.
How does the winter blues affect our skin?
Studies have shown that our mental health can affect the health of our skin. The skin participates in the stress response and can develop or worsen conditions like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and eczema with prolonged stress. Additionally, chemicals associated with depression can prevent the body from repairing inflammation in cells, leading to an older-looking complexion.
How to protect your skin from the winter blues?
If you think you may be suffering from the winter blues or SAD, it is essential to address that condition immediately. Here are some ways to do just that:
Try Light Therapy: one of the most effective treatments for SAD is light therapy. It involves exposing yourself to bright light using a lightbox that mimics the sun’s light. Studies have shown that light therapy can relieve symptoms in as much as 70% of patients who try it.
Consider Talk Therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help seriously depressed patients, and it can help reframe negative thoughts into positive ones.
Get More Active: Regular exercise, volunteering, and spending time with friends can help boost mood and energy levels.
Eat Well: Avoid sugary, high-fat, and carbohydrates and eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Return to a healthy diet if you find yourself craving such foods.
Have a Regular Sleep/Wake Time: Going to bed at the same time every night and getting up at the same time every morning can help stabilize your internal clock and allow you to wake up feeling energized.
How to Protect Your Skin from the Winter Blues: Pamper Your Skin
In addition to treating the underlying condition, it’s essential to take steps to reduce your risk of inflammation, redness, itch, and irritation. Here are some tips:
Eliminate Products with Extra Fragrance, Colors, or Dyes: Stick to basic products that are clean and free of harmful chemicals.
Tame Inflammation: Use a natural spray to tone the skin, such as our Rescue + Relief Spray, which has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties.
Consider a Calming Mask: Apply an oil-absorbing clay mask if you have acne or use a moisturizing, hydrating mask if your skin is dry and irritated.
Conclusion
The winter blues can have adverse effects on our skin, but there are steps we can take to minimize these effects. By addressing underlying conditions, maintaining healthy habits, and practicing good skincare, we can keep our skin looking healthy and vibrant throughout the winter season.
