From skiing through powdery snow to curling up in front of the fireplace with a hot cup of tea, there is so much to look forward to as the cooler season approaches. But with winter looming, we need to revise our summer skin care routine to conquer the oncoming atmospheric changes such as cool temperatures, harsh winds and dry air. To avoid dry, flaky and lifeless skin this winter, follow our simple guide to loving your skin all season long.
Choose cleansers wisely: Cleansing twice a day and double cleansing is essential to keeping our faces healthy and free from pollutants. However, cleansing so often can sometimes stress our skin and zap out the natural oils. When winter hits, this stress is magnified, so it’s important to consider a non-drying cleanser for the cooler months, regardless of whether or not you are naturally oily. Look to active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid which actively binds moisture to the skin’s surface, and avoid foaming cleanser, as they are more drying than cream or balm cleansers, and will strip your skin of natural moisture.
Maintain your sun care routine.
Despite the dreary clouds above, there are still harmful UV rays attacking your skin. Continue to protect your skin from aging and sun spots by applying at least SPF 30+ on a daily basis. You can apply sunscreen right before your foundation, or use a primer which contains SPF to prep your skin for the day.
Exfoliation is key.
Due to winter’s aggravating winds and dry air the uppermost layer of our skin becomes damaged, resulting in itchy, dry and flaking skin. This buildup of skin cells, creates congested pores, which can contribute to breakouts. To avoid breakouts and to smooth our skin’s surface for easy application of makeup, exfoliation is essential to your winter skin care routine. Buff the outer layer of your skin gently 1-3 times a week, before applying a hydrating serum or moisturiser, this will help to boost their hydrating benefits!
Ditch the lightweight lotion.
During summer we produce plenty of natural oils as our atmosphere tends to be more hydrating, but when winter comes, the moisture locked in our skin is siphoned out by dry air and damaging winds. Obviously moisturiser is key to beating dry skin, and we recommend moisturising at least twice a day after cleansing your skin. But not all moisturisers were created equal – ditch the lightweight lotion and opt for heavy cream. Hydrate dry skin with a deeply nourishing cream moisturiser. This will also help to rebuild your skin’s outer barrier and protect your skin from free radicals.
Careful of the added heat.
When the glorious summer humidity drops, the outside air becomes very dry, stripping the skin of its natural oils as it fights to lock-in moisture. Our already dry skin then has the added stress of tackling hot showers and heaters. We’re not saying to freeze all winter long, but we do recommend dialing down the shower time, and having luke warm showers if you can. Another great idea for winter, is to invest in a humidifier, which will regulate the moisture levels of your indoor environment, to nurture the skin during downtime.
Amp up your skin care routine with these easy tips to staying hydrated in winter. Your skin will love you for it, and you’ll love enjoying a healthy, youthful glow all year round.