As temperatures plummet and the heating kicks in, our skin faces a huge challenge. The cool, dry air outside and the warm environment indoors combine to leave your complexion feeling tight and dry. If your skin is feeling irritated with the change of the seasons, dermatologists would agree that it’s time for a pivot in your skincare routine. Think of it as trading your summer silks for a cosy cashmere coat. Your skin deserves the same luxurious and thoughtful protection.
Switch to a Cream or Oil-Based Cleanser
Even though your summer foam cleanser is a hero for cutting through heat and humidity, it might now be part of the problem. Traditional foaming formulas can contain ingredients that strip away the natural, protective oils from your skin.
This can worsen winter dryness and that tell-tale taut feeling across your face. Instead, you should switch it out for a gentle and comforting cream or oil-based cleanser. Gentle formulas help to dissolve makeup and clear impurities without affecting your skin barrier. Look for natural, hydrating oils that hydrate your skin and leave a supple, moisturised canvas behind.
Upgrade Your Moisturiser
This is the season to indulge in thicker, richer creams. Lightweight lotions are superstars during the summer months, but they often evaporate quickly in drier winter air. A quality cream provides an additional layer that physically locks in moisture.
Seek out professional skincare with specialist ingredients like ceramides, which are essential lipids that support and repair the skin's barrier. Likewise, hyaluronic acid is a potent humectant that draws and holds hydration in the skin. Together, these products create a robust defence against the elements, keeping your complexion glowing on the darkest days.
Keep Wearing SPF
It’s a common misconception that once the sunshine retreats, so can your daily sunscreen. But for most of us, UV rays remain strong in winter. Thin clouds are no match for them, meaning you are still exposed even if you can’t see the sun at all.
Winter vacations only add to the problem. If you find yourself near snow, UV exposure can nearly double as rays reflect off the brilliant white surface. Skipping this step is the fastest route to sun damage! Make it a non-negotiable pact to apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning, no matter the forecast. It is the most essential layer of protection for your skin, all year round.
Targeted Evening Treatments
For the last step in your winter skincare routine, it’s recommended to introduce targeted treatments each night. For example, if you want to target fine lines and signs of ageing, you could incorporate retinols. This ingredient is a Vitamin A derivative that accelerates cell turnover and stimulates collagen production, which helps to smooth fine lines.
However, because winter skin is often more sensitized, you should apply retinol with care. To make sure that your skin stays happy and intact, it’s worth introducing any new ingredient gradually and thoughtfully.
With these tips in mind, you can keep your complexion looking young and fresh from the darkest days through until spring.
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