COLD & DRY
Where it is: High-altitude climates like the Rocky Mountains, Swiss Alps and Plateau of Tibet.
What it does to your skin: Higher altitudes come with a thinner atmosphere which means less moisture in the air and more intense UV exposure. Dry air and sun damage mixed with winter elements of frost, snow and wind can severely dehydrate skin and break down its natural protective barrier, leading to flakey patches, redness and premature aging.
What you can do about it: From moderately cold-ish to polar-vortex c-o-l-d, don't let the mountains leave your skin high and dry. Insead, opt for creamy cleansers that are non-stripping; layer up on lipids à la serums and face oils to replenish your moisture barrier; end every day with a thick moisturizer to boost your skin's nightly renewal process; wear sunscreen daily with at least 30 spf, especially if you're going to be in the snow where UV rays aren't only hitting harder through the oxygen-deprived air but reflecting back off the bright surface.
INGREDIENTS TO LOOK FOR
Tsubaki Oil
Rich in omega fatty acids, squalane and vitamins, this floral-extracted oil so closely mimics skin's natural oil that it more easily absorbs and delivers its moisture and nutrients.
Squalane
This skin-compatible lipid protects against moisture loss, free radical damage and visible aging with a weightless, non-greasy feel that won't leave pores feeling smothered.
Coconut Oil
Its moisture-locking and anti-microbial properties have made coconut oil a beauty go-to for dry skin types to help soothe irritation and prevent water loss.
Retinol
Long lauded as skincare royalty, this vitamin A-derivative helps support natural collagen production and speed up cell turnover to help restore a firmer feel and smoother appearance.
Pro-Vitamin B5
Pro-vitamin B5 (aka panthenol) acts as a humectant attracting and binding water to the skin and an emollient sealing it in for improved moisture retention.
Wild Yams
Wild yam extract contains a saponin called diosgenin that's easily absorbable by the skin to support natural collagen production and restore a more even-looking skin tone.
Green Tea
Loaded with age-protective polyphenol antioxidants and vitamin E, these calming leaves may just be the cup of tea your skin routine is craving.
Chamomile
Just as chamomile tea is nearly synonymous with calming the mind and body, chamomile extract is the go-to calm-restorer for stressed or irritated skin.
Cold & dry skincare tips
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Gentle non-stripping cleansers with creamy textures or oil-based formulas are less drying.
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If ever there was a time and place to layer on face oils and thicker-than-usual moisturizers, cold climates at high altitudes is it.
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For the love of GLOW, wear sunscreen. The thinner atmosphere at higher elevation increases UV exposure.
INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT
Tsubaki Oil
This Japanese winter bloom is a cherished secret of geishas past and present. Tsubaki oil so closely mimics skin's natural oil that it more easily absorbs and delivers its moisture-retaining benefits and nutrients to the deepest layers of the skin. And, oh, the skin nutrients it holds!