How to Keep Up with the Climate Shifts: Going From Cold to Hot & Vice-Versa!

As someone who has lived in Southern California for many years, I have become fondly acquainted with the mild winter weather. The air hovers at a comfortable temperature , and while the air is discernibly drier, it is nothing a good moisturizer can’t fix in a snap. Picture this weather, then imagine my surprise when my iPhone app forecasted multiple days of 80-90* weather… In the middle of February! Indeed, the sun is shining and the sea breeze is blowing, but if I were to hop on the next flight to the East Coast I know I would be met with extreme wind chill and snow.

Whether your experiencing the crazy weather shifts in your own town, or are about to embark on a cross-country trip, I want to share some of my favorite products for when the temperatures change with you!

Golden Rules & Product Picks

Transitioning From Hot to Cold – Going from warm weather to cold can be very harsh on the skin. Cold weather is known for drying out the skin, causing it to feel chapped and oftentimes irritated. And the harsh effects only get worse as the temperatures go down. So, what do I suggest for keeping your skin fresh and comfortable in the colder weather?

• Keep a rich and soothing moisturizing on-hand! I am a huge fan of GloTherapeutics Moisture Rich Cream, and always keep one with me when traveling to cold weather destinations.
• DO NOT ditch your SPF! Way too many people assume that the colder weather gives them permission to stow their SPF protection away until the sun starts to shine. This is absolutely FALSE! In fact, clouds can magnify the power of UV rays, meaning an increased need for sun protection. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours!
• Don’t underestimate the power of a facial mist! So many people skip the mists in favor of moisturizers and serums, and while I feel that everyone should incorporate a moisturizer or serum into their regimen, a spray can actually do your skin a lot of good. I love using Oxygen Botanicals Hyaluronic Hydrating Mist for a refreshing boost when my skin is feeling dehydrated.
• Never leave home without your lip moisturizer! Whether you’re a fan of lip balm, moisturizing lipstick, or a hydrating gloss, never leave home without your lip moisturizer. I have done this in the past and despite my better knowledge, I always lick my lips when they start to feel dry. While this may seem like an acceptable ‘quick fix’ until you can get back to your beloved lip moisturizer, it is actually quite damaging to the lips. Your saliva is ripe with enzymes used to assist in breaking down and digesting food, meaning it will actually dry out and damage your lips even more!
• Don’t neglect your hands! The dry winter weather always seems to affect my hands more than any other part of my body. The combination of the winter weather and frequent hand washing always cause my poor hands to dry out, so a hand cream is absolutely essential.
• Wash your hair less! If you haven’t discovered the joy of using a dry shampoo, there is no better time than the present. Just like the rest of your body, your hair will become noticeably drier as the weather plummets, and nothing demolishes moisture better than washing your hair 7 days a week. I like to wash twice a week to give my hair a break. If you feel you need a pick-me-up in between, reach for any of these fabulous dry shampoos.

Transition From Cold to Hot – Warmer weather is kind of a catch-22. Some people will experience a surge in their oil levels, while others will feel their skin starting to dry out. A lot of that has to do with skin chemistry, and weather conditions. Hot, dry, windy destinations are obviously bound to dry out the skin and hot, humid climates are bound to kick-start your sebum production. So, what do I suggest for keeping your looking and feeling it’s best in warm weather?

• SPF Again! While more people definitely reach for their sun protection in the summer months, very few remember to reapply. I always keep some form of SPF in my purse . I love Image Skincare Prevention+ Daily Matte Moisturizer SPF 32 for everyday facial use, COOLA Sport Continuous Spray Sunscreen Pina Colada SPF 35 for body, and my essential, Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Powder Brush SPF 50. If you have trouble reapplying your SPF because you don’t like the excess grease, or don’t want to mess up your foundation, definitely reach for a powder sunscreen!
• Keep an arsenal of oil blogging pads! I don’t always need oil blotting pads, but for the times that I do I am certainly happy to have them on hand. Most packs are the size of a credit card, only thicker, so you really don’t have much to loose by toting one with you, and your friends will be thankfully for your arsenal as well.
• Try a Soothing Serum or Gel! I’m sure you’re wondering why you need a soothing serum or gel in the warmer months , but trust me; this is always good to have on hand. Oily skin can coax breakouts, which can sometimes be red, inflamed, or irritated. Sunburns will also feel so much better if you slather on something soothing and healing. And of course, there are people who despite the warmer weather still struggle with dry skin irritation. Honestly, this is a year-round staple for me, but I find myself using it the most in the summertime.

No Matter Where You’re Going – whether you’re going from cold to hot, or hot to cold, if it involves air travel you absolutely must moisturize and hydrate your skin. Reach for products that are packed with antioxidants for free radical protection, and make sure to cleanse your face well and re-moisturize your skin along the way.