by Chiara Spagnoli

Created on: February 09, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Winter can take a toll on our faces, especially if we live in very cold climates. We lack the color we have from spending our days outside during summer, but looking pale does not have to equate looking dull!.

A pale, milky skin, can recall old era divas, and can be very appealing. But, it has to be well cared for. So, here are some suggestions.

Drink water! It is the most important, and never stressed enough action one could take to take care of one's skin (and body, and hair, and health). The best would be to become used to drink plain water, at room temperature. If you can't stand it, try adding some drops of lemon or drinking sparkling water, or both. Please, avoid sugary drinks! Water will hydrate your whole body from the inside, making it easier to eliminate toxins, thus giving skin a better complexion and texture. In winter is more difficult to feel thirsty, so make an effort to sip continuously during the day. It'll become a habit after some days.

Hydrate your skin from the outside too! There is no need to buy expensive potions, since lots of companies that make the most expensive products, make the middle or low range too. A lighter moisturizer for greasier, combination or acne-prone skins, a slight heavier one for drier, sensitive and/or older skins should be enough. Olay has a great range of moisturizer for all ages and all needs, it's not expensive, and you can buy it in most pharmacies/supermarkets.

Physical activity will keep your blood flowing and help eliminate that dull look. No need for 2 hours gym session: a walk in the snow (if the weather allows it) its wonderful also to keep your stress down, even better if done with a friend or a loved one! As an alternative, there is a wide range of DVDs for any activity, so anyone can pick what's best for him/her! Or, one of my favorites: put on some music, jump, and dance (close the curtains first). It is really liberating!

Vitamins! And not only the pharmacy kind. Fruit and vegetables every day should be a must. They keep you hydrated too! When choosing what you put inside yourself, think: would you rather your skin to look like an apple, or a French fry?

Masks: at least one a week, to help soothe wind burned skin. Again, no need to buy expensive stuff: you can make a mask even by spreading honey on your fare and living it fifteen minutes (rinse carefully!). Your skin will be as soft as baby's skin, after. Alternatives are: a ripe banana, avocado, yogurt with honey.

Now, for the makeup part. A light foundation can help even out your skin tone. Please, don't pick a too rosy shade, or one that is more than one shade darker or lighter than your skin tone. You'll have a mask effect or look like a ghost!

A light blush on the apple of your cheeks should help have a healthy look. Again, not too dark, and remember: less is more.

Chapstick is the cheaper alternative for your lips, and it gives them a shiny look. As an alternative, a hydrating lipstick.

I'd like to stress that there is no need to spend lots of money or time to take care of your skin in the winter. Eating well, taking care of one's self from the inside, does not require a huge effort, and the payback will be immediately visible! And good products can come cheap too!

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