Winter brings with it a certain charm – snowflakes, cozy sweaters, and hot chocolates by the fire. However, the drop in temperature can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving it dry, flaky, and prone to irritation. But fret not, because in this guide, we’ll explore some essential winter skincare tips and products to help you maintain a radiant complexion even when the mercury drops. From hydrating moisturisers to protective lip balms, we’ve got you covered for a winter season filled with healthy, glowing skin.
1. Cleansing for Winter: Begin your winter skincare routine with a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Look for soothing and nourishing cleansers to ensure your skin stays moisturised. Avoid hot water, as it can further dry out your skin, instead opt for lukewarm water and a soft cleansing cloth. Cleansing twice a day will help remove impurities and prepare your skin for the following steps. If your skin becomes more sensitised in the winter Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser would be perfect to calm and protect your skin, if it becomes more dry and flaky, try Intensive Moisture Cleanser, a rich and nourishing, creamy cleanser.
2. Exfoliation: Exfoliation is crucial year-round, but it becomes even more vital during the winter months when dead skin cells tend to accumulate. Choose a mild exfoliant with ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to slough off dead skin cells gently. However, don’t overdo it – limit exfoliation to once or twice a week to prevent excessive dryness and irritation or use a gentle exfoliator, designed for everyday use, like Daily Microfoliant to gently reveal a smooth and radiant skin every day.
3. Hydration with a Rich Moisturizer: One of the most crucial steps in your winter skincare routine is selecting the right moisturiser. You could opt for a moisturiser that’s richer than your usual one that contains a slightly higher oil content. Consider using a separate night cream that’s even more nourishing to replenish your skin while you sleep. Check out the range of our Dermalogica moisturisers here.
4. Sunscreen: Don’t let the winter sun fool you; UV rays are still present, and they can be even more damaging when reflected off snow. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every morning, even on cloudy days. Look for sunscreens that offer protection against UVA and UVB rays, and reapply if you spend extended periods outdoors. Dermalogica offer a range of moisturisers that include an SPF, like Dynamic Skin Recovery which also contains many potent anti- ageing ingredients to further protect your skin, and others that you can add to or use on top of your regular moisturiser, like Invisible Physical Defence.
5. Lip Care: Chapped lips are a common winter woe. Keep your lips soft and supple by using a lip balm with hydrating ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or cocoa butter. Avoid licking your lips, as this can exacerbate dryness. Consider exfoliating your lips gently with a sugar scrub once a week to remove dead skin, then follow up with your favourite lip balm.
6. Humidifier: Investing in a humidifier for your home can work wonders for your skin. Winter air is often dry, and indoor heating systems can further deplete moisture levels. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping to maintain optimal hydration levels for your skin.
7. Hydrating Face Masks: Treat your skin to a weekly nourishing face mask to give your skin an extra boost of moisture and vitality. This pampering step can make a noticeable difference in how your skin looks and feels during the winter season. We love Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque, a rescue in a bottle for winter stressed skin.
8. Protect Your Hands and Feet: Don’t forget about your hands and feet, which can also suffer from dryness and cracking in cold weather. Apply a thick hand cream and foot cream daily, preferably at night, and wear gloves and warm socks to shield them from the harsh elements.
9. Stay Hydrated: Good skincare starts from the inside out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated. Herbal teas and warm water with lemon can also help combat the drying effects of winter.
10. Diet and Lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids can do wonders for your skin. Incorporate foods like avocados, nuts, and oily fish into your meals. Additionally, try to manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation, as stress can exacerbate skin issues.
11. Book a professional skin treatment. Check out the range of different facial treatments we offer here. A LuminFusion treatment will exfoliate and hydrate the skin for a super glow, or try a Dermalogica ProSkin Ultimate. A 90 minute treatment to nourish the skin and includes a stress reliving back massage to rid you of any muscle tension. Pure bliss!
With these winter skincare essentials in your arsenal, you can embrace the beauty of the season without worrying about the toll it takes on your skin. Remember that consistency is key and adapting your skincare routine to the changing weather conditions is a wise choice. By pampering your skin with the right products and practices, you can ensure a radiant and healthy complexion throughout the cold months. So go ahead, step out into the winter wonderland with confidence, knowing that your skin is well-protected and ready to glow.