Winter-Proof Your Skin: Derms Swear by This Winter Skin Savior—And It’s Not a Cream!

This article from Mulberry Park Silks outlines the unique challenges winter poses to your skin. We deliver some expert advice on how to dodge the ravages of harsh weather, including using a pure silk pillowcase to pamper and protect your skin.

Winter Weather: A Seasonal Challenge to Your Healthy Skin

Warm sweaters. Cozy fires. Twinkly holiday lights. There's a lot to love about winter. But even the most devoted fans will tell you that winter can be really tough on the skin. As temperatures drop and humidity levels plummet, our skin faces a barrage of challenges. Cold, dry air and wind outside conspire with artificial heating indoors to strip away moisture, leaving skin dry, itchy, and prone to irritation. The result? A complexion that looks dull, feels tight, and may even crack or flake.

Combatting winter's assault on your skin is about more than just reacting to dryness and irritation; it requires proactive care and smart preparation. Dr. Zev Schulhof of Iconic Implants explains it this way, saying, "In the winter, when there is less moisture in the air, it's important to be extra intentional about keeping your skin moisturized. Make sure you apply moisturizer every morning and night, and you may want to consider switching to a more deeply hydrating moisturizer, at least at night."

By understanding the unique challenges cold weather presents and adopting a tailored skincare routine in the winter months, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and radiant all season long. Let's explore some expert advice on how to arm your skin against winter's chill-from daytime defense to nighttime nourishment-and discover why a luxurious mulberry silk pillowcase should be a cold-weather beauty essential.

Winter Skin Care: Protection and Pampering are Essential

We asked a panel of experts for their best advice on what to do-and what to use-to protect your skin during the winter. Here are their recommendations:

1. Hydrate from within: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and skin well-hydrated.

2. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Apply a rich, emollient moisturizer immediately after bathing to help your skin barrier lock in hydration. Dr. Sarah Yovino, a Double-Board Certified Dermatologist based in Beverly Hills, recommends "using a rich moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid and ceramides to lock in moisture without heaviness." This also helps prevent eczema and other dry-skin-related conditions in the winter season.

3. Break out the humidifier: Combat dry indoor air by adding moisture to your environment, especially while you sleep. San Antonio, TX-based plastic surgeon Dr. Thomas Jeneby emphasizes this point: "A cool mist humidifier is key for adding moisture to the air without drying it out. Low humidity depletes the skin's moisture, so aim for 30-50% humidity."

4. Don't forget the SPF. No matter your skin type or skin tone, sunscreen is definitely not just for summer. In fact, UV rays can also be damaging in winter. Dermatologist Dr. Anju Methil reminds us, "Even though it's winter, don't forget about sunscreen. Yes, the sun is less intense, but the UV rays are still there-especially on those crisp, sunny days or if you're spending time in the snow."

5. Exfoliate, but gently. Exfoliation is good for removing dead skin cells to allow better penetration of moisturizing products, but don't overdo it. Dr. Yovino suggests, "gently exfoliate with medical-grade glycolic acid pads 2-3 times a week."

6. Nourish your skin. Incorporate oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids into your diet or skincare routine to support skin health.

Habits that Hinder Healthy Winter Skin

Along with taking proactive steps to protect winter skin, you should also seriously consider these skincare pitfalls that take a toll during colder months.

1. Hot Showers. We get it, they are tempting, especially when the mercury plummets. But hot showers strip your skin of natural oils. Bellevue, WA-based dermatologist Dr. Kristopher M. Day advises, "Limiting hot showers, using lukewarm water instead, helps skin maintain its natural barrier."

2. Harsh soap or cleansers: Choose a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser that won't disrupt your skin's natural barrier. Dr. Day cautions, "I counsel patients to avoid products with sodium lauryl sulfate which can be overly drying."

3. Overheating your home. Excessive indoor heat is a big culprit that dries out your skin. Keep temperatures moderate; stay warm with a cozy sweatshirt; and-even better-use a humidifier as mentioned above.

4. Licking your lips. This common habit actually dries out your lips more and causes chapped lips. Dr. Methil advises, "Keep them soft with a nourishing lip balm that contains ingredients like beeswax, cocoa butter, or shea butter."

5. Neglecting your hands and feet. Don't forget these often-exposed areas. Moisturize them regularly and wear gloves and warm socks (shea-butter-infused house socks are favorites among the Mulberry Park Silks staff).

A Mulberry Park Silks Pillowcase: Fight Winter's Harshness While You Sleep

Daytime care is crucial, but what if you could continue nurturing your skin even as you sleep? Enter the Mulberry Park Silks pillowcase - your skin's new best friend. Dr. Schulhof says, "Silk pillowcases can be great for your skin. The silk material doesn't absorb as much moisture, compared to the likes of other common pillowcase materials like cotton or linen, so when you are sleeping with your face pressed against silk, that allows your skin to retain more of its moisture."

Here's why our silk pillowcases are the perfect addition to your winter skincare routine:

• Pure, silk fabric: Our pillowcases are made from 100% pure Mulberry silk; like your skin, silk fiber is protein-based and, as such, helps retain moisture.

• Non-absorbent: Unlike a cotton pillowcase that can absorb your expensive nighttime skincare products, our silk pillowcases keep those precious serums and creams where they belong - on your skin.

• Hypoallergenic: Silk is naturally hypoallergenic, making it ideal for sensitive skin or those prone to allergies.

• Antimicrobial properties: Silk has natural antimicrobial qualities, providing an extra layer of protection for your skin as you sleep.

• Gentle on skin: The smooth surface of silk reduces friction, minimizing sleep creases and helping to prevent fine lines and wrinkles. Dr. Methil notes, "The silky texture reduces friction, so your skin isn't tugging against the pillow all night, which can help prevent wrinkles and fine lines from forming."

• Resistant to irritants: Our silk pillowcases naturally resist mold, dust mites, and other common irritants, creating a cleaner sleep environment for your skin.

Dr. Yovino further emphasizes the benefits of high-quality silk pillowcases, saying, "A high-quality silk pillowcase, like mulberry silk, is ideal for winter. Silk allows the skin to glide, preventing tugging and irritation. It helps retain moisture and prevents heat loss. I've found mulberry silk provides the softest, most temperature-regulating surface."

By switching to a Mulberry Park Silks pillowcase, you're not just indulging in luxury - you're making a smart investment in your skin's health and appearance.

Mulberry Park Silks: The Best Silk Pillowcase in Any Season

 

At Mulberry Park Silks, we're committed to providing the highest quality silk pillowcases at fair and affordable prices. All our pillowcases are crafted from 100% pure silk, using the highest grade available (Grade 6A) in a luxurious charmeuse weave. We never compromise on quality or misrepresent our products - when you buy from us, you're getting genuine silk (never a synthetic satin pillowcase). Our pure silk pillowcases come in a range of momme weights (with 22 being our "signature" and most popular weight) and a range of designer color options that coordinate with our silk sheets. Choose from a hidden zipper or envelope closure in Standard, Queen, and King sizes. Our silk can easily be washed by hand or machine: use a mild detergent and a gentle cycle; never use bleach or fabric softener; and hang to dry. And while silk is naturally hypoallergenic, we've taken the additional step of having our products independently certified under OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 as safe from harmful chemicals.

Lastly, we are proud to be a U.S.-based company with our headquarters, customer service, and warehouse located in Branford, CT. When you call or email with a question about one of our products, you are speaking to a team member in our headquarters.

This winter, don't let harsh weather dictate the health of your skin. With proper care, smart choices, and the luxury of a Mulberry Park Silks pillowcase, you can maintain a radiant, healthy complexion all season long.

Our Clients Also Ask These Questions:

Is silk good for a hot sleeper?

Silk bedding is known for superior temperature regulation. That means it keeps you cool in warm weather (or if you're a hot sleeper) and warm in cooler temperatures.

What is the downside of a silk pillowcase?

There is very little downside to using a silk pillowcase. It may be a bit more expensive than your typical cotton pillowcase and requires gentle care and hang drying. That said the benefits to your hair, skin, sleep quality, and overall wellness far outweigh these concerns.

Is silk good for cold weather?

Silk is naturally temperature-regulating, so it is a wonderful choice for cold weather. In addition, pure silk bedding helps keep dry skin hydrated during the cooler months.

What silk pillowcase is best for the skin?

A genuine mulberry silk pillowcase is best for your skin. Mulberry silk is made from the longest, strongest, purest silk fibers for the ultimate luxurious feel and beauty benefits.

What is better for your skin, silk or satin pillowcase?

A silk pillowcase is far better. Silk is a protein-based, natural fiber. Satin is made from petroleum-based rayon or nylon and does not deliver any of the beauty and wellness benefits you get with genuine silk.

How often should I wash a silk pillowcase?

You should wash a silk pillowcase at the same intervals you would wash a regular pillowcase. In general, weekly washing is a good guideline.