When weather conditions change, so should your skincare regime. You may need to moisturise more often and if your skin feels dehydrated, try using oil-based moisturisers rather than water-based.
Look out for ingredients such as primrose oil, almond oil and Shea oil or butter. It’s also important to remember that sunscreen isn’t just for summer, as winter sun – and snow glare – can damage skin too. Avoid using harsh peels and face masks, as well as alcohol-based toners as these can all strip vital oils from your face.
You may want to dip straight into a hot bath after a day out in the cold, but intense heat can lead to a loss of moisture. Instead, go for warm showers or baths and don’t be tempted to stay in too long.
A good starting point in fighting back against the cruel chill of the coming months is cleansing, as it helps skin absorb moisturisers and serums. It’s important to find the right product as anything too harsh will strip skin, leaving it dehydrated. Mild foaming cleansers or cleansing milks work well during winter.
Eau Thermale Avène Gentle Milk Cleanser is a great option for dry skin as it contains thermal spring water and is free from detergents. It lightly cleans skin of make-up and grime while keeping it protected and nourished. Simply apply with fingertips or damp cotton wool and massage onto the face and neck.
For anyone suffering with sore and sensitive skin, Eve Lom’s TLC Cream is a must-have. Cold weather can often irritate the face, leaving it feeling tight and parched. This comforting cream is suitable for all skin types and work wonders if used overnight. Packed with special plant oils and extracts including Rose Otto of Bulgaria, the formula soothes angry, dry or red skin on the face, neck and décolletage.
An ideal product to wear under your moisturiser is Darphin’s Hydraskin Intensive Moisturizing Serum. This instantly delivers relief to thirsty faces, and contains pomegranate, which penetrates under the skin to deliver intense hydration and a healthy glow. The formula is oil-free and doesn’t contain parabens, so it won’t aggravate any sensitive complexions.
Aveda’s Tourmaline Charged Hydrating Crème is best applied straight after a serum. The emulsion contains finely-powered tourmaline, an energising mineral, as well as marine and plant extracts. This will help transform sallow skin into radiant, glowing complexions. It also offers protection from harsh environmental effects such as wind and cold.
For those suffering with dry, flaky faces, Bobbi Brown’s Extra Moisturizing Balm could be just the thing. This luxurious cream contains petrolatum and Shea butter to help eliminate sore patches and promote a softer, hydrated face. Aloe and cucumber soothe stressed skin, while Vitamin A and carrot extract will firm skin and minimise fine lines. The lotion is also scented with rosemary, Moroccan chamomile and geranium so it smells as good as it feels.
Finally, we might all know this by now, but it’s worth repeating – drinking plenty of water will help promote a fresh-faced glow. This is especially important if your office is blasting hot air out all day.