How to switch up your skincare for winter
During the winter, skin tends to lose moisture and oil due a number of factors such as lack of humidity in the air, central heating and harsh weather. These conditions cause dryness and dehydration which in turn, means the skin can become dry, itchy, flaky tight or sensitive.
If you’re noticing some of these symptoms, we recommend changing your skincare routine during the colder months. Here are 5 simple switches to keep your skin happy, healthy and hydrated:
1) Switch to a soothing cleanser
Cleansing morning and evening will help to remove the build up of toxins which aggravate delicate winter skin. If your skin is lacking moisture, use a gentle cleanser that won’t strip the skin of its natural oil to prevent it feeling tight and sore.
Tip: Milky and creamy cleansers tend to be the least harsh or ones designed especially for sensitive skin.
2) Exfoliate Gently
It’s important to keep exfoliating during winter – otherwise the dry skin will stay there. However if you exfoliate too aggressively whilst your skin is delicate, it can become even more aggravated. Try a Glycolic Acid based scrub which provides a much gentler exfoliation.
Tip: If your skin is particularly sensitive, a chemical peel may still be too much. Try mixing your physical exfoliator in with a milky cleanser to tone it down.
3) Use a richer moisturiser
During winter, avoid lotions that are very light. Instead, change your regular moisturiser to a more protecting and nourishing cream. Go for products that are made with Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid. Ceramides aid in the protection of the skin’s barrier, which is easily broken down during the winter whilst Hyaluronic Acid repairs the skin’s hydration levels.
Tip: Hyaluronic Acid can come in different size molecules (or weights). Low weight means bigger molecules which can only work on the skin’s surface. High weight means smaller molecules which are able to penetrate down to the deeper layers of the skin.
4) Add Rose Hip Oil
Rosehip Oil, in it’s purest form contains a high content of omegas, anti-oxidants and vitamin A which provide great healing properties. Mixing a few drops of Rose Hip oil in with your moisturiser will help to reduce flaking, irritation and redness while rehydrating the skin.
Tip: Rose Hip Oil can be used on the face and body. It’s also great for dry hair, and brittle nails.
5) Use a hydrating mask
For an instant boost, switch to a hydrating mask. An intensive mask will restore the skin’s hydration levels providing it with immediate comfort. Look out for Hyaluronic Acid (the more weights the better).
Tip: For the winter season, hydration is the best defence against wrinkles!
