Anyone who has experienced a Rexburg winter will tell you that it can be unforgiving, to say the least. The harsh climate, known for its biting winds, freezing temperatures, and dry air, can deliver a nasty shock to your skin, leaving it dry and irritated. 

For BYU-Idaho students, maintaining a good skincare routine can feel like just another thing to manage on top of finding affordable student housing, managing a busy academic schedule, and keeping up with a social life.

However, just as we offered tips on staying warm in your BYU-Idaho housing this winter, we’ve got you covered when it comes to maintaining an effective skincare regimen. Your skin will thank you for staying hydrated and protected during the chilliest months of the year.

Keep Your Skin Hydrated

With a dry winter atmosphere constantly threatening your skin, keeping it well-hydrated is non-negotiable. Here’s how:

Switch to a hydrating cleanser

Cold winter air can strip your skin of the natural oils that keep it supple and soft. A gentle, hydrating cleanser is a must, so look for products like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or Neutrogena Hydro Boost, available at local pharmacies like Walgreens or Walmart.

Moisturize frequently

Applying a moisturizer immediately after cleansing and reapplying as needed ensures your skin has the best chance of staying soft. Look for products that contain hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Good options include Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Lotion and La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm. These ingredients help lock in moisture and strengthen your skin’s protective barrier.

Add weekly hydrating masks to your routine

Hydrating sheet masks or overnight masks can provide intense hydration for your skin. Try Burt’s Bees Hydrating Sheek Mask or Laneige Water Sleeping Mask for extra moisture.

Drink water

The simplest way to keep your skin hydrated is to hydrate your insides. Drink plenty of water to help your body produce the compounds it needs for radiant, glowing skin.

Protect Your Skin From The Elements

Rexburg winters come with precipitation and harsh elements, so adopting the right strategies to shield your skin is essential.

Don’t skimp on SPF

Just because it's winter doesn’t mean UV rays aren't present. In fact, reflected rays off snow can be more intense. Make sure you use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, such as EltaMD UV Daily or Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen.

Use barrier creams

As temperatures dip below freezing, the right treatments can prevent windburn and early frostbite. A barrier cream, such as Aquaphor Healing Ointment, is a solid choice.

Bundle up

Scarves, hats, and gloves help protect your skin from the cold. Opt for accessories made of natural materials like cotton or wool blends, as these minimize irritation.

Don’t make unnecessary trips

While you don’t want to stay locked up in your apartment all winter, it might be smart to cozy up indoors when conditions get extreme. Make the most of your BYU-Idaho housing and stay safe and warm.

Use a humidifier

Heating systems dry out the air, which can affect your skin. You can still use them, though! Just pair them with a humidifier, such as the Pure Enrichment MistAire Ultrasonic, to help add moisture to the air and prevent dry skin.

Focus on Your Lips and Hands

Typically, your hands and lips suffer most in the winter, as they are most often exposed and vulnerable to the cold. Make sure you’re giving them the TLC they need.

SPF-friendly lip balms

Thick, hydrating lip balms protect your lips from the elements. Look for Burt’s Bees SPF 15 Lip Balm or Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment.

Use hand cream

Washing your hands strips away the protective oils you need along with the germs you’re trying to get rid of. Keep your hands soft after washing with Aveeno Skin Relief Hand Cream.

Overnight protection

For problem dryness, apply a thick cream like O’Keeffe’s Working Hands or Vaseline Dry Hands Rescue and cover your hands with gloves overnight to lock in moisture.

Adjust The Products You Use

While your usual skincare routine may work well, winter calls for a few adjustments to maximize your skin’s health.

Use richer formulas

In winter, emollient-rich products are especially beneficial. Look for those with that keyword on the label, such as Vanicream Moisturizing Cream or First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream.

Look for key ingredients

The right skincare products make all the difference. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid and ceramides, such as The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% with Vitamin B5 or CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.

Seek Professional Help if Necessary

Even the best home skincare regimen has its limits. If you’re dealing with persistent dry skin, eczema, or other issues, it’s important to speak to a professional for additional support.

Visit a dermatologist

If your skincare routine isn’t enough, you may need targeted treatments. A dermatologist can provide personalized solutions and offer prescription-strength products.

Check out spa treatments

A visit to a local spa offers pampering and targeted care to combat the harsh effects of winter on your skin. Some spas may offer student-friendly specials, so keep an eye out for deals.

Protect Your Skin from Inside Your Affordable BYU-I Housing

While following the skincare tips above will help protect your skin from the harsh winter air, one of the best ways to prevent damage is to stay indoors when the weather is particularly brutal

When you’re in the warmth and comfort of your BYU-Idaho housing, you won’t have to worry about exposure to the cold. With warm rooms and a community of like-minded students, there are plenty of ways to enjoy winter indoors without risking the chill. For affordable student housing in Rexburg, contact Sunrise Village today or apply now online.