Gusting winds, shorter days, and lower temperatures means that winter has come back in full swing. While all of us take the cold weather as a sign to switch out our short sleeve shirts for long sleeves and sweaters, most of us don’t think to change our skincare routine when the seasons change. The cold weather means extra dryness and irritation, so it’s important to take some extra steps to protect your skin for the winter time. Here are some skin care tips for cold weather:

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!

If you only make one change to your regular routine this winter, make sure you use a facial moisturizer to help combat the dry flakiness that results from being out in the cold. You’ll want to apply a good quality moisturizer at least twice a day, to keep your skin smooth and flake free. Always moisturize after a hot shower, and make sure not to leave the house on those blustery days without a thin layer applied. Check out The Gentlemen's Moisturizer as well as the best facial cleanser for men!

Don’t forget your hands and lips

Nothing is more annoying and unattractive than cracked and dry lips. Always keep your favorite lip balm handy and apply it on a regular basis to prevent your lips from getting chapped. The same principle applies to your hands. Exposure to the wind and cold can leave your hands rough and sometimes covered with callouses, so don’t forget to apply lotion or moisturizer to your hands too. When you want to take care of your hands, make sure you use our walnut hand and foot scrub, as well as our hand repair lotion. Look into some of our other premium grooming products.

Invest in winter wear

It might go without saying, but you should definitely be using a hat, scarves, and a set of gloves when you venture out into the cold. Not only will it keep you warm, but it will also protect your skin from the elements and help to prevent any irritation that comes with the cold weather.

Shave after a hot shower

During the winter months, it is easier for your skin to develop irritation after your shave. Try to shave right after a hot shower so that your pores are open and your hair is softer. For the ultimate shave, massage your shaving cream onto your face to create a rich lather for a smooth shave (don't forget the shaving brush!). Once again, don’t forget to use The Gentlemen's moisturizer right after to prevent dryness.

Invest in hair conditioner

Your skin isn’t the only thing that dries out during the winter. It’s best that you switch out your shampoo for a 2in1 shampoo that will condition your hair with the vitamin E it needs so that it doesn’t get dry and brittle in the cold. Or if you’re so inclined, purchase a hair conditioner with the same type of healing qualities. If you have a long beard or cool mustache style, invest in a cedarwood beard conditioner.

Use a face mask to hold in moisture

A facial mask with activated charcoal not only helps to clear your pores but also locks in moisture during the cold months to help prevent your skin from flaking out. Charcoal for men's skin is very helpful to maintaining men's skincare.

Drink lots of water

This is easier to do in the summer months when you’re in need of a cool refreshment, but when it gets cold we tend to switch to hot tea or coffee. It’s important that you continue to drink lots of water in the winter. Staying hydrated is the key happy and healthy skin all year round. This is not just one of our skin care tips for cold weather, hydration is key all year round!

Because the beginning of the season is also the beginning of the holiday season, you’re bound to find a lot of these products in bundles or sets that will make switching to a new routine easy and possibly more cost-effective.