Winter Skin is In
By Sarah Jefferson*
We all know we need to take extra precautions with our skin in summer. But what about winter? Winter can wreak havoc on our skin while we sit back and become lax about our skin care routines. Cold temperatures and low humidity result in dry air, which draws moisture out of the skin. This, plus indoor heating and hotter showers causes our skin to become dry, dehydrated and often appear dull. Here are our top tips for looking after your skin during the winter months:
HYDRATION
The number one concern we have from clients in winter is that their skin feels dry. After some investigation it almost always appears that although yes, there may be some dryness, it is often more dehydrated than dry, or a combination of both. A simple way to describe the difference between the two is: dry skin lacks oil, and dehydrated skin lacks water. Drinking more water to increase hydration for the body in general is a must, but it is not enough alone to rehydrate the skin. In order to attract more water the skin produces hyaluronic acid which acts as a humectant, drawing water in and bringing it to the skin cells that need it. However hyaluronic acid is like collagen, we can never have enough! We recommend investing in a hydrating serum that contains a high level of hyaluronic acid to aid the skin in its processes.
BARRIER REPAIR/MOISTURISATION
In order to maintain hydration and to protect from outside damage the skin has a naturally formed barrier. This barrier can become weakened through exposure to UV rays, weather extremes and harsh cleansers, resulting in dry, often irritated skin. Loss of hydration and redness can result also. In order to repair the skin after damage we need to use a moisturiser containing the same ingredients that make up the natural skin barrier, to lock in hydration and moisture, and to protect from harsh weather, changing temperatures and outside pollutions.
SPF
We know so much more about the dangers of the sun now than we did twenty years ago, and as a result we are so good at protecting ourselves from the harsh summer sun. However a lot of people don’t realise that as long as it is daylight, UV rays are always present. They can penetrate through clouds and windows, and are there even on the coldest stormiest winter days. Investing in a day moisturiser that contains an SPF which you can wear all year round means you will always be protected from the harmful effects of UV rays-Including premature ageing, dehydration, hyperpigmentation and of course skin cancers.
DRINK MORE WATER
We tend to drink less water in winter, swapping instead for hot drinks such as tea, coffee and hot chocolate. It is still so important to keep up our water intake for the body and therefore the skin to be hydrated. If you struggle to drink water in the cold weather, consider drinking hot water with lemon instead, or opting for herbal teas as opposed to milk drinks like normal tea and coffee.
DON’T FORGET THE BODY
And last but not least, don’t forget the skin on the rest of your body! With all the focus on our more delicate facial skin, we often neglect the rest of our body. It can be hard to remember to moisturise the body, and that is why I love body oils. Simply quickly apply them while the skin is still damp after a shower, and the water helps to take the oil molecules into the skin for longer lasting hydration. Another easy way to moisturise the entire body is to add essential oils to your bath. Simply step out, pat yourself dry and your skin will feel amazingly soft and hydrated! My favourite is the Moor Lavender Body oil, and the Moor Lavender bath oil by Dr hauschka. It has the most amazing lavender smell, and is made with 100% organic ingredients so it’s truly good for your skin.
PRODUCTS WE RECOMMEND
Find some of our winter favourites below.
*Sarah, who has been with us 4 years, is an experienced Therapist who's specialism is cosmeceutical skincare and in-depth skin knowledge. We're delighted she has returned after adding to her family. She is also our Instagram queen.
