Winter skin
You know how your grandma said to take care of your possessions so they last a lifetime? Well your skin is no different. For all of winter’s seasonal highlights – hitting the slopes, snuggling by the fire, chunky knit throws and spiced mulled wine – the downside is the drying effect it has on our skin. So, while winter is the time to update your wardrobe, it’s also the time to update your skincare regime. We’ve pulled together some top tips for looking after your skin throughout the cool months of winter.
1. Our skin is the barrier that keeps water inside of our bodies. When it is dry and cold, that water is able to evaporate off the surface faster and easier. So throwing back an extra glass or two of water each day over the cooler months can help restore the moisture in your skin.
2. It may seem like common sense, but moisturising is the first step to keeping skin hydrated throughout winter. So invest in the best. This is one time when quality really does trump quantity. Body oils are also a great option, as they can create a barrier before having a warm bath to prevent skin from drying out.
3. While it’s tempting to get home on a cold day and jump into a hot shower, taking hot showers and not immediately moisturising after can result in small cracks in the surface of the skin which expose the skin nerves to air, creating what’s known as ‘winter’s itch’; dry, itchy and irritated skin that can feel like eczema. If you do have a hot shower, lather on the moisturiser while the room is still nice and steamy.
4. This is one time of the year when it’s OK to chill on the exfoliation routine. Too much exfoliating during the winter months when it is cold and dry can compromise your skin’s barrier.
5. Cleanse gently. Harsh cleansers can strip away natural oils, leaving your skin exposed. Cream-based cleansers, preferably with moisturising attributes, will remove the day’s dirt and makeup while keeping the moisture in.
6. Slapping on sunscreen in winter may seem like the last thing on your mind, but sunscreen is just as important during winter to protect skin from those harmful UV rays – especially in New Zealand. Opt for a sunscreen with at least SPF30 and if you’re heading up the slopes, make sure you reapply every two hours – or immediately after heavily sweating.
