“As we move into the colder months, our skin needs more nourishment and hydration.”
Protection From the Elements
As the seasons transition from autumn to winter and the weather changes to become colder and wetter, we think nothing of changing our clothes to suit the conditions. Pulling on an extra jumper, hats, scarves, and gloves when we need extra warmth. Or a waterproof jacket and wellies when we need protection from the elements. However, few people stop to give their skincare the same consideration. Our skin takes a real battering as temperatures drop, wind and damp conditions become the norm, and we turn on the central heating.
Water Loss
What tends to happen is the moisture barrier in the skin becomes damaged and we suffer from something called “transepidermal water loss”. It can lead to the skin becoming dry and chapped. Central heating can make this worse as the dry heat also encourages the skin to lose water and become dehydrated. People with conditions such as rosacea or eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis may also find their conditions become more severe. The good news is that by using the right skincare products in the right season, we can protect, nourish and hydrate the skin.
Ditch the Soap!
A nourishing, oil-based cleanser is the best way to wash your skin and keep it in tip-top condition. Unlike soap, which is often very drying, a creamy oil-based cleanser will actually help moisturise the skin while removing makeup, dirt, and impurities. Contrary to what you might think, it won’t make you “oily” and actually helps regulate sebum production.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
As we switch to more hot drinks in the colder months, it’s easy to let your water intake fall by the wayside. Remember you should be aiming to drink 2-3 litres of water a day. This will help everything in your body, including your skin. You can also “layerin” hydration on the skin using hydrating essences and serums that feature ingredients such as hyaluronic acid (actually naturally found in the skin and is able to hold 1.000 times its weight in water!).
Nourish and Protect!
Investing in a good moisturiser and, ideally, a facial oil at this time of year is an absolute must! Seek out products that contain plant ceramides and coldpressed natural oils, which help provide your skin with essential fatty acids and antioxidants, and help to prevent transepidermal water loss. Your skin will benefit from using a richer moisturiser over the winter or by doing what I do: layering a lighter moisturiser with a few drops of nourishing oil over the top. Finally, don’t forget that facial sunscreen is a MUST, even in winter months. It protects against UVA rays as well as UVB and is the single best anti-aging investment you can make in terms of your skin.
Written by Caroline Louise Beauty and Makeup
About The Author
Caroline Louise is a professional makeup artist and skincare expert working throughout North Wales, Shropshire and Cheshire. She specialises in bridal, occasion and prom makeup but also gives one-to-one makeup consultations and lessons. For more information, visit caroline-louise.co.uk, email caroline@caroline-louise.co.uk or call 07814 442 041.
