Fall in Minnesota is beautiful but the arrival of dry, cooler air brings in a steady stream of facial clients complaining of dry skin. The skin benefits from moisture in the air, so as humidity levels plummet and air temperature dips the skin can look flaky and feel uncomfortably dry and rough, even emphasizing fine lines or wrinkles.

It’s important to see your dermatologist to help ease the problems associated with dry skin that can actually be a symptom of a more serious condition such as dermatitis or eczema. If your doctor has determined that it’s simply dry skin, facials can often be a great help to make your skin look and feel soft and supple once again.

Facials typically consist of several different components including skin analysis, exfoliation, extraction, masking and moisturizing. If your skin feels dry and your normal moisturizer doesn’t seem to be helping, visiting an esthetician for a hydrating facial can provide some instant help. As the seasons change adjustments in home skin care are necessary in regions where temperature and humidity levels fluctuate greatly. Changing moisturizers or adding a serum can help a lot to rehydrate dry skin.

When Dermatology Consultants patients are referred to me for facials, the first thing I do is look at the skin very closely. I search for rough, dry patches and also look for extra oil and clogged pores. Everyone has unique aspects to their skin type, so every facial performed is tailored to meet the skin’s current needs.

I often recommend a combination of exfoliation of dermaplaning and a light peel if acne is not a consideration. These two methods combined help remove dead skin cells that the skin may not be sloughing on its own, for genetic, aging, or environmental reasons.  Thorough exfoliation will help reveal the newer skin below and brighten a dull complexion.  Also as a bonus effect, most of the vellus hairs are temporarily removed with the dermaplane procedure, leaving the complexion feeling as smooth as silk.

Monthly facials can really help restore your skin’s soft dewy look. I also make recommendations for products, to step up a moisturizing regimen in the wintertime. SkinCeuticals has several products that work well, including their B5 Gel, a favorite with many of my clients in their forties and fifties.

Facials are always a good idea as a complement to your dermatologists’ care. In the winter, they can make an even bigger difference!