Caring for your skin during winter is essential as colder temperatures and lower humidity levels can lead to dryness and irritation. Here are my tips to help you maintain healthy and hydrated skin during the winter months:
- Hydrate from within: Maintaining good hydration is crucial for healthy skin. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated (aim for 2litres/ day) as cold weather can be dehydrating.
- Use a gentle cleanser: Opt for a mild, hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils. Consider switching to a creamy or oil-based cleanser that nourishes the skin while cleansing.
- Moisturise regularly: Apply a hydrating serum to draw moisture into the deeper layers of the skin opt for hyaluronic acid based serums. Then apply an emollient moisturiser to lock in the moisture – look for products containing ingredients such as glycerin and ceramides which help maintain the skin’s hydration barrier.
- Protect your skin with SPF: Even in winter, UV rays can cause damage to your skin. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF30 on your face.
- Exfoliate gently: Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and allows moisturisers to penetrate better. However, be gentle and choose a mild exfoliator to avoid over-drying your skin.
- Lip care: Use a nourishing lip balm to prevent chapped lips. Look for formulations with ingredients like glycerol for added hydration.
- Protect your hands: Hands often bear the brunt of winter dryness. Wear gloves to protect them from the cold, apply a moisturising hand cream regularly.
- Use winter-friendly products: Adjust your skincare routine to include products that provide extra hydration during winter. Consider using a hydrating mask or a thicker night cream.
- Limit hot showers: Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Keep the temperature lower during showers and baths and limit their duration to prevent moisture loss.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and anti-oxidants. These nutrients contribute to overall skin health and can help combat dryness.
Everyone’s skin is unique, so you may need to adjust these tips based on your specific skin type and concerns. Some of my personal winter skincare favourites are:
- Cleanser – Exuviance gentle cream cleanser
- Hydrating serum – Skinceuticals hydrating B5
- Moisturiser – Obagi hydrate luxe
- Lipcare – Eucerin acute lip balm
- SPF – Heliocare gel SPF
- Handcare – L’Occitane shea butter hand cream
If you have skincare concerns or would like to know more about looking after your skin throughout winter, then please book a consultation at our new Beckenham clinic for a bespoke skincare plan.
Our new address is: SAYA Aesthetics, 254 High Street, Beckenham, BR3 1DZ
Dr Salma
