Combat the harsh effects of winter weather on your skin with our expert advice and recommendations for a healthy glow.
By Anje Hill
Are you worried about the harsh effects that the winter weather can have on your skin? You’re not alone. The colder months can take a toll on our skin, leaving us with dry patches, itchy skin, and chapped lips; however, the good news is that with the right treatments and techniques, you can prepare your skin and keep it healthy and glowing.
It’s essential to understand how the colder weather can affect your skin. During winter, the air is less humid and exposure to lower temperatures and brisk winds can lead to increased moisture loss from the skin. Additionally, spending more time indoors with heating systems can further reduce humidity levels, contributing to dryness and irritation.
It’s also important to differentiate between regular dry skin and more severe issues that may arise during the winter months. Factors such as age, stress and lack of sunlight can exacerbate skin dryness, making it essential to adapt your skincare routine accordingly. As we age we may experience drier skin due to reduced oil production, while stress and lifestyle factors can worsen pre-existing skin conditions like rosacea or psoriasis. To combat dry skin during winter, it’s vital to adapt your skincare routine accordingly. Some of the essential steps you can take include:
Gentle Cleansing. Use a gentle cleanser that effectively removes impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Avoid hot water and harsh soaps, as they can further dry out the skin. Instead, use lukewarm water and a mild cleanser to preserve the skin’s moisture
barrier.
Moisturise Immediately. After showering or washing your face, apply moisturiser while your skin is still
damp to lock in moisture. Choose a rich, nourishing moisturiser containing ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid or ceramides to hydrate and protect the skin. According to Ruan Winter, the marketing manager for Vitaderm, “The key to surviving winter skin — redness, dryness, flakiness, irritation, itching, overall sensitivity — is to incorporate ingredients to help nourish, hydrate and protect the skin.”
Hydrate from Within. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids. Adequate hydration supports skin elasticity and moisture retention, promoting a healthy complexion from the inside out.
Use a Humidifier. Combat dry indoor air by using a humidifier in your home, especially in the bedroom where you spend a significant amount of time. A humidifier helps to add moisture to the air, preventing skin dehydration caused by heating systems.
Protect Your Skin. Shield your skin from harsh winter weather by wearing protective clothing such as scarves, hats and gloves. Additionally, don’t forget to apply sunscreen, even on cloudy days, to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Incorporate Serums and Oils. Enhance hydration and nourishment with serums and facial oils rich in hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or nutrient rich oils such as jojoba or argan oil. “Serums and skin oils are the perfect complement to your skin care regimen this winter to ensure your skin gets the essential moisture and lipid boost it requires to stay balanced. Serums contain active ingredients that
benefit the skin so it’s best to apply serums first and then follow with a moisturiser. Skin oils on the other hand supplement lipid levels and boost skin moisture content passively by locking in moisture and preventing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) so it’s best to apply a skin oil over the moisturiser or blend a few crops with the moisturiser before applying, Ruan states.
Prepare for Intensive Treatments. If considering more intensive winter skincare treatments, such as chemical peels or mesotherapy, prepare your skin in advance with less invasive procedures. These treatments can improve skin quality, hydration and treatment receptivity, ensuring optimal results with reduced risks. By following these essential steps, you can prepare your skin to withstand the challenges of winter and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion throughout the season. Remember to adapt your skincare routine as needed and consult with a skincare professional for personalised recommendations based on your skin type and concerns. With the right approach, you can keep your skin glowing and vibrant even in the coldest months of the year.
We enlisted the expertise of beauty and fashion guru, Candice-Lee Kannemeyer, to share her top winter skincare tips with us. With her valuable insight, you’ll be armed with the best advice to keep your skin glowing and healthy through the chilly season.
1. Switch your facial moisturiser to one that’s more nourishing.
3. If your skin is on the oilier side, boost its moisture levels with a Hyaluronic Acid serum used underneath your daily moisturiser. Your skin may be oily, but chances are it’s dehydrated.
2. Just a three-degree drop in
temperature can sap
moisture from the skin. This,
coupled with indoor heating,
can result in seriously dry skin
that could impair one’s moisture
barrier. Balm and cremé
formulas are great for winter as
they’re super nourishing.
4. Winter is the perfect
season to tackle dark spots
and uneven skin tone because
we tend to spend less time in
the sun. Many of the ingredients
used in brightening ranges can
sensitise the skin to the sun. If
you’re looking to brighten your
skin, choose a range with
Vitamin C, Niacinamide or
Glycolic Acid. Ensure you include
a good SPF50+ in your daytime
skincare regime to protect your
skin from any further
dis-colouration or damage.
