Cold outside where you live? The winter season can be the worst time for your skin, especially if you live in a cold and dry climate. Low humidity is common in colder climates, and this causes moisture to be lost from the skin. This is also compounded by the fact that indoor areas are usually heated with warm dry air. The result can be dry, irritable, and even flaky skin.
Short of moving to a warm tropical climate, there are steps that can be taken to prevent and alleviate winter symptoms.
Get a gentle cleanser
A gentle, oil-based cleanser can help to prevent dryness. Foamy, bubbly cleansers usually contain sodium lauryl sulphate which strips the natural oils from your skin, which are needed to protect your skin from the elements. Cleansers with lightweight oils such as shea and castor oil can help to hydrate the skin, while still removing dirt and pollution. Check out our blog post for tips and benefits of using a good cleanser.
Switch to an oil-base cream
If you only take away one thing from this article, it’s that the number one rule is to keep your skin hydrated during winter. After you wash your skin, you should moisturise before it is completely dry which can help to lock in moisture. Using a moisturiser with natural oils such as jojoba oil and cocoa butter can help to create a protective barrier and prevent skin from drying out. Avoid ingredients that could irritate the skin, such as parabens, sulphates, and artificial fragrances.
Beware of having hot showers
Everybody loves a long hot shower, but the hot water will not do dry skin any favours. The heat will further dry out your skin, so reducing either the temperature or the length of your shower can help (if you can find the will).
Moisturise at night
Using a day cream that effectively locks in moisture is great, but it is also a good idea to use a deep hydrating night cream at the end of the day to help replenish the skin. A quality night cream will be slightly thicker and be designed to absorb into the skin overnight. Ingredients to look for that a known to hydrate include shea, hemp oil, olive oil and jojoba.
Don’t forget sunscreen
It’s easy to skip putting on sunscreen in winter, no one likes putting on cold sunscreen in the morning and you’d be forgiven for thinking there is minimal UV risk. However, during winter our skin is still subject to damaging UV rays that can age and dry out the skin. So, if it’s not already in your skin care routine, apply a sunscreen after any serums or moisturisers at the start of the day.
