Avoid Winter Dryness

Health & Wellbeing

Preparation is the key to avoid extra breakouts and dryness.

As the days shorten and we head into winter, it’s common that our skin can feel a little tighter and look a little duller. Bother it – just when we had looked so bright and radiant during summer! Here’s why, and what to do about it.

Why does my skin change?

First, a change in season means a change in humidity, but it can take a little while for our skin to catch up.

Second, despite our best efforts, we have probably exposed our skin to more UV light in summer. Our skin is trying to repair any damage, so it’s hanging on to all the water it can. Dehydrated skin is a little weaker than usual, and sensitive. This means any little problem that may occasionally plague your skin will grab its chance. Perhaps it’s blackheads, congestion or dry, rough skin.

Simple solutions

The good news for us is that it’s generally not a hard fix. And my 2-part solution is likely to be similar for each of us, whatever our symptoms.

1. Hydrate your skin, from inside and out.

Here’s how:

• Drink more water. If you’re not a fan of water, adding lemon often helps and herbal teas are good too.
• Eat foods that have a high water content, such as cucumber, zucchini, water melon.
• Humidify the air – have a bowl of water in your bedroom, a vase of flowers by your work station, floating candles perhaps.
• Use water sprays based on heavy water that can penetrate your makeup to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day.

2. Adjust your skincare regime

• Cleanse a little less or choose a gentler product.
• Add an emollient moisturiser to your usual one – you can mix or apply them together.
• Apply moisturisers while your skin is still damp.
• If your skin is always dry, use a bottle of epidermal growth factors – your skincare advisor can recommend one.
• Go a little easy on the Vitamin A and Vitamin C serums – perhaps drop down to using these once every 2 or 3 nights for a month or so.
• Maybe book a hydrating facial or 2 or 3 – they are worth the time!

I hope within a few weeks you’ll have your radiance back, and your skin will look vital this winter.  If you need specific help with choosing the right products for your skin – just ask me.