We live in New England, where the winter air is dry, and wood stoves and other heat sources take even more moisture out of the air. These cold temperatures and low humidity levels result in dry air that draws moisture away from the skin. Harsh winter winds and dry indoor heat can make the problem worse and lead to dry, cracked skin. Adding a humidifier to our bedrooms and the living area has been a game-changer for us! However, when it comes down keeping your skin happy and clean, we have a few ways to help nourish your winter skin.

 

 

 

Use Gentle Soaps and Detergents 

Not all soaps are created equally and those made with fragrances and synthetic ingredients may be doing more harm than good. When looking for soaps that can help nourish your skin look for those with natural ingredients and scents. Be aware of products that use "fragrance" as an ingredient. These kinds types of soaps and cleaners can contribute to skin irritations and conditions.

Our goat milk soaps and shampoos are a gentle and effective alternative. Goat milk soaps are an excellent choice for your body and even hair as goat milk is has a pH level that is closest to that of our skin. The lactic acid found in the milk gently exfoliates dead skin cells and helps to brighten skin tone. In addition, goat milk is moisturizing because it contains triglycerides (fats) and its short-strand protein structure, which allows it to be easily absorbed into the skin.

Say goodbye to skin irritations and conditions caused by harsh chemicals and artificially fragranced soaps. Choose a natural option that will nourish your body and even your hair. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Moisturize! Moisturize! Moisturize!

 

After you shower or wash your hands, pat your skin dry and apply a natural moisturizer to keep your skin supple and smooth. Goat milk lotions are rich and nourishing, adding many vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fatty acids to the body for silky and hydrated skin.

 

Many natural oils can be combined with goat milk to boost skin care and hydration. We use only certified organic oils in our products, ensuring that you are using a chemical-free, natural product that contributes health to your body and the environment. Here are a few of our favorite oils for hydrating the skin.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Great Oils for Skincare 

Jojoba Oil: Jojoba closely matches the natural sebum produced by the skin, which is why it actually nourishes, hydrates, and feeds the skin Jojoba replenishes our skin’s natural barrier function and is considered an optimal product for those with problematic skin. Jojoba provides hydration and cleansing without clogging pores or drying the skin.

A note from our friends at HobaCare: Jojoba will not leave the skin feeling heavy or greasy --unless you use too much. The golden rule of HobaCare is “A little goes a LONG way!"

 

Hemp Seed Oil: This oil is made from the hemp plant seed, which can be used internally or topically for various health benefits. Hemp seed oil is perfect for most skin types as it can moisturize without clogging your pores. It can even help to balance out oily skin, hydrating it and regulating the skin’s oil production. Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, hemp seed oil can help smooth fine lines and wrinkles and soothe inflammation.

 

Grape Seed Oil: This lightweight oil is extracted from the seeds of grapes and penetrates the skin quickly, leaving skin soft, supple, and moisturized. Grapeseed oil penetrates your skin quickly and doesn’t leave your skin feeling oily. To use grapeseed oil on your face, massage several drops into clean skin before you go to bed at night. You can repeat the process in the morning, if desired. Since grapeseed oil doesn’t clog pores, it’s ideal for all skin types, including oily skin that needs moisturizing.

  

Argan Oil: Argan oil is made from the kernels that grow on the argan trees native to Morocco. It’s most frequently sold as pure oil, which can be directly applied directly to the skin. Argan oil has traditionally been used to improve the health of skin, hair, and nails. It contains a number of different beneficial properties and vitamins that form a powerful combination to boost skin health.

 

 

 Winter Skin Routine

 

This full body oil massage routine is a lovely evening weekend ritual. 

• Using a dry soft cloth and gently rub the face and body. This works as a gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells.
• Warm 1/4 c oil ( we used either jojoba or grape seed oil). For a facial routine, reduce quantity to 2tbs. Add the oil to a glass cup and place that glass into a large bowl of hot water. Leave for 5 mins to bring the oil to the perfect temperature.
• Using clean hands, massage the oil into your skin using circular motions over your joints, heart and abdomen and straight motion over the neck, shoulders, back, and legs. Use light pressure over heart, abdomen, face and scalp. More moderate pressure can be used on the legs to help promote good circulation. 
• When massaging the lower extremities, we recommend sitting on a stool or chair covered in a towel. 
• After massaging, start a warm shower or draw a bath. The warm water will help remove excess oil that may be unabsorbed by the skin.

 

 

 Evening Facial Routine

• Begin by gently rubbing your face with a dry washcloth.
• Remove excess dirt and oil using a charcoal face bar or unscented soap bar.
• Rinse and gently pat your face dry. Avoid harsh rubbing or scrubbing.
• Use a warmed oil, jojoba or grape seed, and gently rub into your face using caution around your eyes.

 

For a morning routine, follow the same process as the evening routine but add a natural moisturizing sunscreen as a final step.

 

 

With a combination of supportive daily habits and the nourishing properties of goat milk, you can keep your skin hydrated, soft, and happy through the winter months and beyond!