Serious question: What’s your Winter Arc? Whether it’s hibernating inside with a hydrating face mask and binging Love Island or powering through those daily walks to hit your 10k steps, now’s the time to rethink your shower routine. I mean, who doesn’t want to glow like Jodie Turner-Smith?
In this ultimate glow guide, we’ll walk you through four essential steps to elevate your shower routine, with expert tips from Dr. Renita, lead dermatologist at the Canadian Dermatology Centre. Let’s dive in!
Step one: The Pre-Shower Ritual
Before stepping into the shower, there are a few crucial steps to ensure your skin and hair are prepped for ultra-nourishment. To start off your routine, dry brush your body from toe to head before stepping into the shower. It’s like a mini massage that also gets your circulation going—win-win.
Step two: Cleanse and Refresh
It’s shower time! Now that you're prepped, it's time to indulge in a hydrating cleanser. The type of cleanser you use is just as important as how you apply it, especially in the winter.
“When it comes to body washes, they have such a short contact with the skin that it’s best to keep it simple.” said Dr Renita. “Look for ingredients that provide hydration, such as hyaluronic acid and humectants, which draw water into the skin.”
Step three: Exfoliation, again!
You didn't think we were done exfoliating, did you? To keep your skin glowing and smooth, use a gentle in-shower exfoliator 2-3 times a week.
Dr. Renita explains that there are two types of exfoliation: physical and chemical. As a licensed dermatologist, she recommends chemical exfoliation with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), like glycolic and lactic acid. These gentle acids help remove dead skin cells and promote healthy skin renewal without the harshness of physical exfoliants.
“Over-exfoliating with harsh ingredients can cause abrasion and irritation, leading to further damage. While exfoliation is beneficial, it's important not to overdo it,” she explained.
Step four: Post-Shower Ritual
Once you're out of the shower, your skin is ready to absorb all the hydration and nourishment you apply.
After a warm shower, while your skin is still damp, apply a rich body lotion or oil to lock in moisture. Focus on dry areas like elbows, knees, and feet for extra hydration.
Dr. Renita recommends looking for moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides and fatty acids, which mimic the skin’s natural hydration barrier and help support its function.
“Oat derivatives can also strengthen the skin’s protective layer, while peptides work to stimulate collagen production, promoting firmer, more youthful-looking skin,” she adds.
Short Shower vs. Everything Shower: Which One Should You Choose?
The "everything shower" is a self-care treat, packed with full-body scrubs, hair masks, and nourishing oils—perfect for a weekend reset. But if you’re short on time, a "short shower" with essentials like a gentle body wash and moisturizer can still hydrate and refresh your skin. Sometimes quick and effective is just as good as indulging in a long routine.
"I understand that everything showers can be a relaxing, spa-like experience. If you're not dealing with skin issues or sensitivities, feel free to have an everything shower as often as you'd like—just be mindful not to damage your skin's barrier,” Dr Renita advises.
Ready to Elevate Your Shower Routine?
Transform your winter shower into a nourishing and revitalizing ritual with these four essential steps. Discover our full range of body care in the Revitalize Realm to officially enter your Winter Arc.