How to Keep Skin Glowing this Winter
- Maddie Webster
- Oct 4, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 10
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. Here are my tips on how to keep skin glowing this winter.
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.
Exfoliate no more than twice a week or incorporate the Exuviance gentle exfoliating cleanser which will do it for you in a much better way whilst providing moisturising benefits for your skin.
Winter skincare is all about replenishment and protection.
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.
If you are outside for most of the day, a moisturiser rich in protective emollients will 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.
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 lipids 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.
Don't neglect the body
Remember to drink enough fluid throughout the day. Your water intake does not directly impact your skin but if your organs are dehydrated internally, your skin will suffer.
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.
The skin on you lips is thinner and more prone to drying our faster. Regularly applying a lip balm rich in shea butter and waxes will protect them from the wind.
Other Skincare Changes to Consider
If you are someone who suffers with pigmentation, now would be the time to start using products to lighten the skin; as the sun fades, so will your pigment.
Are you thinking of trying Retinol? The winter months are the ideal time to add this into your routine. Retinol is an active ingredient which increases our skin’s cellular turnover so it’s essential to introduce slowly into your routine, try it nightly two to three times a week. However, if you are not committed to your SPF don't bother adding in a Retinol as it can make your skin more sun sensitive.
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. 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.
My Top products to keep your skin glowing this winter
Exuviance Gentle Cleansing cream - supportive and strengthening to protect the integrity of the skin barrier
Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced - helps boost hydration and repair damaged skin.
Skin Rocks Hyperpigmentation Serum - fades dark marks, red marks, sun spots and melasma
Dermaviduals High Classic DMS Moisturiser - for dry, dehydrated skins needing protection (only available in clinic)
Epionce Renewal Calming Cream - Nourishing, protective and calming
Bioderma XDefense Ultra Fluid - All year round lightweight spf 50 with added antioxidants Vitamin C and E
