Winter Skin Care Routine

It’s official! Summer is over and the dark nights are creeping in on us with a vengeance. Just because the sun has stopped beaming and we are under a cover of cloudy dullness, it doesn’t mean your skin has to be harbour the same dreary tones.

For some people, winter skin can be a real problem. The change of temperature and the sudden climatic changes of being in a warm centrally heated house and the colder outdoor conditions can lead to dry skin patches with flaking that can lead to cracking, and even eczema.

Just as our clothing choices change from season to season, so should the way we look after and care for our skin. With a few simple changes to your daily skin care routine, you can still maintain that fresh faced, youthful look, even on the darkest and dullest of autumnal and winter days.

It’s official! Summer is over and the dark nights are creeping in on us with a vengeance. Just because the sun has stopped beaming and we are under a cover of cloudy dullness, it doesn’t mean your skin has to be harbour the same dreary tones.

Make a change to your skin care routine this season by implementing these top five winter skin care tips to help maintain your positive, fresh faced glow;

1. Keep hydrated. The colder weather may not have you wanting to drink much cold water, but when it comes to maintaining a good level of skin care, hydration is the number one force behind a glowing complexion. Aim to drink a good six to eight glasses of water throughout your day. Always carry a bottle of water with you so you can top up on the go, or keep a fresh glass of water within easy reach as you go about your day.

2. Use sun block. Yes, it may seem like a bizarre thing to do, but just because the sun isn't out in full view, it is still hiding behind and penetrating through the cloudy grey skies. You don’t have to use a high factor cream as you would during the hotter months, but try to stick to a good quality factor fifteen as a minimum.

3. Banish hot baths. Having a steaming hot bath or shower may seem like a good way to warm up and relax after a hard cold day, but while you are enjoying your soak, your skin is not so happy. Hot water only works to dry out the skin further. The intense heat breaks down the lipid barriers which can lead to a loss of moisture. Switch to lukewarm water and pat yourself dry instead or rubbing.

4. Moisturise. Creams and lotions are a must to maintain a good level of moisture in the skin during harsh, cold weather. Apply a generous amount of your favourite body cream daily, particularly after having a bath or shower. Use a specifically prepared foot lotion to banish dry feet, a specially formulated moisture lock face cream and increase the frequency of which you use a hand lotion.

5. Perfect the pout. To prevent dry, sore and chapped lips over the cold season, use a good quality lips balm and apply regularly throughout the day to lock in the moisture.