Winter weather can be dreadful for your skin. As temperatures begin to drop and low humidity levels set in, air becomes dry, rather unfortunately for our skin. However, while winter weather may be unpleasant, your skin doesn’t have to be. Here are our top tips for keeping your skin moist this winter.
- Still use sun lotion
Many people, misled by dropping temperatures, stop using sun lotion as winter sets in. However, the sun’s rays can be just as harmful in winter, as they are in summer, particularly UVA rays. While the winter clouds might reduce the amount of UV radiation that reaches us, our skin is still effected by damage from the radiation. Whether you use sun lotion, or SPF-infused foundation, both help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, which can dry burn and age your skin.
We recommend: Clinique- Even Better Makeup, SPF 15, £24
- Moisturise twice daily
This goes without saying; moisturising is so important no matter what the weather, but in winter it is even more imperative. Moisturise once in the morning to prepare your skin for the winter’s dryness, and once before bedtime to be certain of glowing skin the next day.
We recommend: The Body Shop Vitamin E Intense Moisture Cream, £13
(Photo Credit: Body Shop)
- Adjust your shower temperature
A hot shower may seem even more tempting in the winter months, but they can intensely dehydrate your skin. This might upset a few hot shower lovers, but a lukewarm shower will dramatically improve your skin, as they avoid stripping many essential oils from face. However, if you really cannot bear the thought of a lukewarm shower, just make sure your warm shower is no more than 10 minutes.
- Eat well
You really are what you eat. Eating the right food to prevent dry or red skin during the winter is imperative. To prevent dryness avoid salty foods and instead opt for foods high in omegas and healthy fats, such as fish, nuts and avocado. To prevent redness, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants and vitamins to prevent inflammation, like carrots, tomatoes, and broccoli.
- Drink water
Moreover, it is easy to turn to comfort drinks like hot chocolate and coffee as the months begin to get cold. Don’t forget your skin needs moisture from the inside out as well. So make sure you continue to drink water; warm water with a squeeze of lemon and some grated ginger can be just as warming and refreshing as hot chocolate, yet still helps keep your skin hydrated.
- Don’t skip cleansing
Some people, worried it will dry out their skin, don’t cleanse their face as much during winter. This will simply leave your skin prone to imperfections and blemishes. If you find your skin is too dry or red after cleansing in winter, then your cleanser is probably too harsh. Try a moisturising cleanser enriched with vitamins such as Environs range, or a cleanser with all natural ingredients (see below).
We recommend: Yes to Tomatoes, £7
(Photo credit: HQ Hair)
- Alcohol free soaps and hand sanitizer
If you find your hands become dry and cracked during winter, no matter how much hand cream you use, this may be because you use hand products containing alcohol. Cut this out your skin-care routine, as it can dry out your skin and cause redness. Instead, invest in alcohol-free hand products.
- Don’t ignore your feet
Skincare does not stop at your face and hands. When summer draws to a close and we stop wearing open toed shoes, many people forget the skincare of their feet. To prevent dry or cracked heels, use moisturiser specifically for feet.
We recommend: Soap and Glory Heel genius, £3
(Photo Credit: Soap and Glory)