With the change of seasons comes some changes in our skin. Cold temperatures, low humidity, use of central heating and fires, hot showers and baths can all mean dry skin during winter. Cold air holds less humidity, stealing moisture away from our skin and hair, and without some care, this can lead to fine lines, cracking, and chapping skin and lips, and in extreme cases, bleeding. In fact, if you’re not careful, you can suffer accelerated aging over the winter months. So, what can we do for our skin this winter to counteract these effects?
Skin Treatments:
Many of my customers choose to come and see me at each change of season. My deep moisturising treatments and masks, along with LED treatment and massage will help your skin deal with the extreme conditions of colder months. We can also discuss any changes to your beauty regime from your summer routine to a winter one.
Here are my 10 tips to keep your skin beautiful this winter.
Wash in lukewarm water only – hot showers and baths always feel good in the winter, but when you can, particularly when just washing your face or hands, choose lukewarm water to avoid stripping as many oils away from the skin.
Moisturise immediately after washing – Your skin not only needs more moisture, but moisture right after you wash. Applying moisturiser to damp skin helps seal that dampness into the skin. Keep a bottle near the bathtub or shower, and at every sink and use liberally every time you wash.
Choose your moisturiser carefully – Some over-the-counter moisturisers have petroleum-based ingredients that can actually further dry your skin in the winter months. You may need to upgrade your moisturiser for winter. Be sure to choose a smart formula that has natural, nourishing ingredients. Come and talk to me about the Ultraderm range of products, designed for Australian conditions.
Protect – Get used to wearing gloves and scarves to protect skin from cold winds and rain. Also, don’t forget the sunscreen. Winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun, so apply a safe option like Ultraderm to any exposed areas.
Humidify – Heating systems dry out the air, so consider installing a humidifier in your home, particularly in your bedroom, to put moisture back into the air and help prevent your skin from drying out.
Water Water Water – We tend to drink less water in the winter because we turn to hot drinks, but don’t forget that your skin needs hydration from the inside, especially in winter. Drinking a little warm water with lemon can be very refreshing and hydrating at the same time. And keep up your intake of high water-content foods.
Overnight Moisturising – Dryer areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees have thin skin and tend to lose moisture faster than other areas on the body. Take a leaf out of your grandmother’s book and consider slathering on a deep moisturising lotion at night, then wear cotton gloves and socks to seal in the moisture until morning. You’ll be amazed at the effect.
Gentle exfoliation – We often forget to help the skin slough off dead cells in the winter, particularly on our hands. Find a gentle exfoliating mask and use it on your face and your hands, as well as gently on your lips, then follow immediately with moisturiser to truly see a smoother difference.
Winter Cleansing – Cleansers can be extremely drying to the skin. You may need to change your cleanser for winter with a more hydrating product that contains moisturising ingredients. After cleansing, don’t leave the skin naked for more than 30 seconds, as this can dehydrate it, leading to increased dryness. Apply a hydrating toner and moisturiser to seal in moisture.
Look after yourself to keep glowing!