Noninvasive procedures that help you get your glow back

The groundhog's prediction last month that we were in for six extra weeks of winter may have had you feeling a little down. Pair that with the stress of the holiday season, a few extra wrinkles and the dry winter air, which can make your skin feel tight or itchy, and you may have a case of the winter blues.

Fortunately, there are noninvasive procedures you can turn to that perk up your skin and give your face a reprieve from harsh winter conditions that sap it of moisture and bounce, leaving you with a spring-ready glow.

Which noninvasive procedures can help your skin beat the winter blues?

This winter season can really do a number on your skin. Holiday stress, sugary treats, cookie platters and cocktails can leave your skin looking dull and with a few extra wrinkles around the eyes and the forehead. Just as you are recovering from the holiday, the worst of winter sets in, with dry air and cold temperatures. The weather can strip your skin of moisture, leaving you with dryness, flakiness, cracking and increased sensitivity to irritation.

All in all, the winter months are not kind to the skin and can leave your complexion looking dull, dry and lacking the supple bounce and smoothness of healthy, radiant skin. Beating a winter slump means taking the time to put yourself first and focus on a skincare routine, treatments and procedures that prioritize moisture and skin health.

Sara Dickie, MD, recommended starting with a relaxing facial treatment.

"It's a great way to treat yourself and boost exfoliation and clean pores," said Dr. Dickie. "Most facials come with options for varying depths of peels or dermaplaning to remove the superficial outer layers of skin, which can add to a dull skin appearance. A good facial is a great 'restart' to skincare because it sets the stage for your skin to absorb and brighten with physician-grade products that can really make a difference."

With spring just around the corner, she also recommends a good "spring cleaning" of your skincare and facial products.

"If you feel like your routine serums or creams aren't working for you, it's probably because you need a skin refresher," said Dr. Dickie. "Also, consider that some things you are using may be expired or dried out. Toss them. Go get a new moisturizer made for the drier air of wintertime."

Looking for a more intensive treatment and can afford a little downtime? Laser skin resurfacing may be the answer.

"For that skin glow, my favorite is the Sciton laser, BBL and Moxi," said Anureet Bajaj, MD. "BBL is intense pulsed light, and Moxi is a non-ablative laser. Downtime is minimal, but I really believe that it gives your skin the best glow. Another option is microneedling."

Dr. Bajaj also recommended looking into medical-grade skincare that includes ingredients such as vitamin C, retinol and sunblock.

It may be the last days of winter and feel gloomy outside, but that doesn't mean harsh UV rays can't continue to wreak havoc on your skin, especially after a facial procedure like laser treatment, a facial or microneedling. Sunscreen is still a must!

Dr. Dickie said that if you are confused about which products or ingredients you need, ask your plastic surgeon or an esthetician for recommendations tailored to your skin's specific needs. Her big ask of patients? "Use it as directed!"

"The reason skincare routines don't work is that people get overwhelmed and don't do them," said Dr. Dickie. "Don't make it overly complicated. Start simple. Jump start with a facial and a new product, and leap into springtime!"

Remember that more isn't necessarily better. Your skin needs the right products and procedures that work for you. Overkill can lead to increased irritation and dryness.

Quick guide to spring-ready skin that banishes the winter blues

The best tips from Drs. Dickie and Bajaj for transforming dry, damaged winter skin into a glowing, spring-ready skin complexion include:

• Throw out old or expired skincare products
• Schedule a facial or skincare treatment tailored to your concerns
• Consider more intensive treatments like laser and microneedling
• Look for active ingredients and medical-grade skincare that address your skin's needs
• Wear sunscreen
• Use all new products as directed
• Keep your routine simple so you'll stick with it

The groundhog may have seen his shadow and predicted six more weeks of cold, bitter winter, but with these tips and noninvasive procedures, you won't want to spend one more minute hibernating. Instead, you'll be ready to shine.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.