Dry winter skin affects men and women differently

While both males and females experience skin changes when the temperature and humidity levels drop, this occurs for different reasons, according to dermatologist Rebecca Baxt.

The doctor told HealthNewsDigest.com that men's skin care now goes beyond lathering up with soap and water.

"Men have more testosterone hormone and hair follicles, so they tend not to be as prone to dryness in the winter as women, but men tend not to moisturize as part of their routine," said Baxt, quoted by the news source.

The dermatologist recommended that men make an effort to use lotions during the winter.

For women, especially those who are of a certain age, the winter can exacerbate skin dryness stemming from hormonal changes that occur as they get older. These ladies should consider a rich neck cream that can moisturize while it prevents saggy jowls.

An article in the Boston Globe recommends keeping covered during the winter to help the skin retain its natural moisture and oils. Also, lip balm and non-soap cleansers should be cold weather essentials to prevent chapping and flaking.

 

Don't neglect the neck

Many anti-aging skin care products that are heavily advertized offer solutions for crow's feet around the eyes, laugh lines and forehead wrinkles, but what about saggy jowls?

The neck is often the first area of the body that begins to show signs of aging, mostly because it is thin and takes on the stress and stretching associated with simply moving the head. Moreover, many women forget to apply sunscreen to this sensitive region, leaving it susceptible to ultraviolet rays.

Environmental pollutants, such as those emitted by car engines and industrial plants, can also affect the skin, getting deep into pores and eventually breaking down naturally occurring collagen and elastin.

However, topical creams and lotions may be able to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that occur with age.

First, they work by simply moisturizing the skin, which plumps it up and makes signs of aging less visible. Massaging emollients into one's face and neck can also give it a glowing appearance.

Additionally, the best neck creams contain antioxidants to help minimize the impact of pollution in the air and water, which may help firm neck skin.

 

Gwyneth Paltrow's aesthetician gives winter skin care tips

The blustery winds and low humidity that winter brings have a negative effect on everyone's skin, even Gwyneth Paltrow. The actress' skin care expert recently spoke with Us Magazine on how women can keep their skin silver screen-worthy even in the coldest weather.

First, Sonya Dakar said that using a humidifier in your home may help restore your skin's natural glow and prevent flaking or cracking.

Additionally, she said that using richer skin care products when the weather gets bitter cold may help it retain moisture and protect the complexion from chapping.

"Look for a formula that contains essential fatty acids-omega 3, 6 and 9. You should also apply your face lotion within minutes of washing your face to lock in as much moisture as possible," Dakar told the news source.

WholeLiving.com recommends avoiding harsh cleansers in the winter in favor of gentle, milky products. Additionally, the Martha Stewart site advised readers to use skin care products with calming, natural ingredients. This may mean seeking out the best neck creams with antioxidants and emollients.

 

Replace skin care products often to avoid infection

MSNBC recently reported that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is beginning its crackdown on contaminated cosmetics as a proactive measure to protect consumers from infections.

The news source stated that products that have not been packaged correctly or are old can become breeding grounds for bacteria, yeast and mold that can cause severe skin reactions.

"The key is to never share personal care products with other people, and especially don't share ones which require you to touch the product directly in the package," said cosmetic chemist Perry Romanowski, quoted by the news source.

According to WiseGeek.com, you should routinely go through your cosmetics to weed out anything that's been sitting around too long. Products that are used around the eyes should only be kept around half as long as other creams and makeup, due to the risk of eye infection.

In general, powders, lipsticks and liners should be good for about two years, while creams and oil-based cosmetics expire after about one year.

Remember to review your cabinet and drawers regularly so that your favorite neck creams can continue to help reduce the appearance of saggy jowls without the risk of contamination.