Yes, I know what you are thinking, ‘she’s on about skin again’. I value skin health and prioritize it before anything else within facial aesthetics. Healthy skin does not just happen and the the worst part is we do not see the damage we do to our skin until its too late. Winter in particular is a harsh time for our skin, follow these five tips to learn how to protect, hydrate and care for our biggest organ.
Tip 1: Do NOT put that SPF away Typically, we all think just because it is Winter that there is no need to protect our skin with an SPF cream. Whilst there is less UVB levels in this season there is still significant enough UVA to age our skin! It is fundamental to wear SPF cream ALL year round. UV exposure can contribute to skin damage and ageing by up to 90%!! To maintain adequate Vitamin D levels we can also supplement with oral vitamin D3 (March, B. 2017).
Tip 2: Drink up! Unfortunately, I am talking strictly water not the fun stuff! There is a common misconception that dry skin is solved solely from applying thick creams or oils. Water largely dictates our skins hydration levels. Water plumps the skin, increases collagen production, improving elasticity, cohesion and cell rejuvenation. It also helps to flush out the unwanted toxins. The European Food Safety Authority recommends a water intake of 2.0 litres for women and 2.5L for men (National Hydration Council, 2018).
Tip 3: Choose your moisturiser wisely Winter weather is extremely drying, the low humidity steals moisture from our skin every second. Dry skin can cause cracks, irritation and even bleeding. To keep the skin youthful, plump and hydrated is it important to moisturise to restore lost moisture. I suggest a moisturiser containing hyaluronic acid for your face. Lets not miss an anti-aging opportunity! The best time to apply a moisturiser to your body is after a wash. Applying moisture to damp skin helps seal the moisture in. When it comes to choosing the best moisturiser don’t be fooled by some of the over the counter products containing petroleum as they can actually be more drying! Always opt for those containing natural, nourishing ingredients. During this drying season I would recommend oil-based over water-based.
Tip 4: Skin Rejuvenation treatments Following any skin rejuvenation treatments such as chemical peels and/or microneedling, the skin is much more vulnerable. With the reduced UV exposure in the Winter, it is actually a perfect time to get skin treatments with less risk of post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation. Winter skin is typically dull but with professional skin treatments you can get a winter glow too!
Tip 5: Stay active! In the summer months as a nation we are much more likely to work out due to that pending reality of being semi-naked around the pool in the near future. However, in the Winter months we all want nothing more than to hibernate and tuck ourselves up underneath a blanket. Staying active helps boost our circulation and maintain glowy, well perfused skin. For natural radiance, try to do 3-4 thirty minute walks a week. Go on, at least try!
Follow the outlined 5 tips and help your skin this Winter!
References:
March, B. (2017) ‘#Skinschool: 10 things a dermatologist wants you to know in winter’, available at: https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/beauty/skincare/a13700536/winter-skin-tips-from-a-dermatologist/.
National Hydration Council (2018) ‘Importance of Hydration FAQ’S’. Available at: https://www.naturalhydrationcouncil.org.uk/hydration-facts/faqs-on-hydration/
The Telegraph (2016) ‘Eight Ways to Look After Your Skin This Winter’. Available at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/beauty/beautiful-skin/winter-skincare-tips/