When I was in high school my boyfriend would slather his face with Vaseline. I of course found this really weird – something I would never do in a million years. But for him, it was essential, especially in cold weather, to protect his skin from excessive dryness. Of course little did either of us know it was doing little else for himself, as mineral oils have no nutritive value and are the dregs of the petrochemical industry.
My recommendation for dry skin in winter, and I only recommend this to folks of color, is to use a salve or butter – very similar in texture to a Vaseline product but healthful and nourishing! Some tips: don’t over apply the product, use about a fingertip amount for your face each day before going out into the cold and wind, and choose an all natural brand that isn’t oily or greasy or too heavy.
I will say that because salves have “hard oils” like cocoa butter and beeswax in them, they can be comedogenic (can cause breakouts), so this is why I hesitate to EVER recommend this type of product for the face, but in some cases I will recommend it because it does work so well for dry skin.
This skin type tends to be a bit thicker and the dryness factor overshadows the slim threat of blemishing in the short term, just don’t tempt fate and use everyday ad infinitum! I think you’ll find your skin actually is smoother, softer and imparts a lovely glow as well.
Give this product type a shot and let me know how it goes for you.
It’s the time of the season…when dry skin rules, so do what you must and see and feel the fabulous relief….ahhhh
