Winter brings a double whammy when it comes to skincare. Chilly outdoor temperatures and indoor central heating combine to dehydrate and increase Trans Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL) within the skin, leading to itching, flakiness and redness and sensitivity.
It’s time to rethink skincare routines as we prep for the colder months ahead. Let’s keep that glow all year round!
Nurture your skin
“If you see flakiness and dryness it’s tempting to think you need to up your exfoliation, but exfoliating is strong and on an already compromised skin, strips away essential lipids from your skin making it even drier and unable to protect itself, so exfoliate no more than twice a week or incorporate this gentle cleanser which will do it for you in a much better way along providing many more benefits for your skin.”
Don’t forget – you’re almost sure to need a richer moisturiser for the colder season as your summer one will struggle to cope. Keep your skin protected during the day and replenished at night, look for products containing ceramides, squalene (an ingredient which closely matches our sebum) natural moisturisers like Hyaluronic Acid and oils such as an Evening Primrose Oil. A moisturiser rich in protective emollients to act as a barrier against the elements and trap in moisture. If you want to learn more about the skin barrier, how it works and why it needs protection check out this blog.
“I recommend a professional facial every six weeks during the winter months to ensure a regular assessment of their skins condition. This enables me to not only give the skin a much-needed deep treatment but also provide the best advice and reviews on current products to keep their skin healthy and balanced.”
Winter skincare is all about replenishment and protection. If you’d like some professional advice on the best winter moisturiser and serums for your skin, book a skincare analysis and consultation and I’ll examine your skin, talk about your current routine, and recommend the right seasonal products for you.
Some like it hot (but not your skin)
Try to limit the time in hot baths and showers. Lukewarm water is a better option as the heat in the water removes the oils out of your skin – the warmer water you use, the drier your skin’s going to be.
Once out of the shower I recommend patting your skin dry and immediately applying a hydrating body cream. This will lock moisture into your skin – applying it to damp skin is much more beneficial, especially if your skin is dry to start with. I’m using Advanced Clinicals Coconut Butter (available to purchase in professional size) at the moment as it nourishes and hydrates without leaving a sticky residue.
Stay hydrated inside and out
Remember to drink enough fluid throughout the day to help prevent your skin from drying out and keep it looking healthy. Obvious I know but it’s easy to overlook as the temperature drops.
Regular moisturising is also vital – especially after washing which strips the skin of its natural oils. Apply moisturiser to hands first thing in the morning and reapply throughout the day. Choosing one which has at least SPF 30 every day, even in cold weather, to stop hands ageing prematurely.
I am never without a Skin Regimen Lip Balm in my bag, especially in the winter with those cold winds chapping our lips. However, I am not a fan of Vaseline I'm afraid so would advise choosing one with nourishing shea butters, oils and protective waxes.
Retinol
Are you thinking of trying Retinol to give your skin a real boost before the colder weather sets in? Retinol can deliver some amazing results, making your skin look younger, brighter and smoother.
“Retinol is an active ingredient which increases our skin’s cellular turnover so it’s essential to introduce slowly into your routine and slowly build up usage and always use a good sunscreen.” If you are not committed to your SPF don't bother adding in a Retinol.
There are some key do’s and don’ts when it comes to introducing Retinol into your routine to ensure you get the best results – so if you’re interested in adding Retinol to your routine book a free consultation and we’ll give you the right advice for your skin. It's an ingredient which needs its own stage so there will a whole blog post on this coming soon!
Don’t forget the sunscreen
Even when it’s cold and grey, skin-damaging UV rays still get through so don’t stop using sunscreen during the winter months. Use at least SPF 30, apply your sunscreen after moisturising each morning and reapply regularly throughout the day. I keep a travel-size SkinBetter Science SPF
Compact in my bag to ensure it's always there to be reapplied.” As our skin can become more vulnerable during the winter, it needs all the extra help to protect itself. Remember those UVB rays can penetrate glass so if you’re in the car or working by a window apply that sunscreen.
If you need any advice or recommendations to help your skin glow this winter do ask – I'd love to help.
Love and Respect
Maddie x
My Top products for winter skin
Exuviance Gentle Cleansing cream - supportive and strengthening to protect the integrity of the skin barrier
Neostrata Vitamin C - rich in antioxidants, lifting and brightening pigmentation
Dermaviduals High Classic DMS Moisturiser - You go to moisturiser for dehydrated, lipid dry and sensitive skin (only available in clinic)
Heliocare Age Active SPF50 - All year round lightweight spf 50 with added antioxidants Vitamin C and E