6 ways to winter-proof your skin

With temperatures set to drop further this month, the layers of clothing are likely to increase but it’s also important to up your skincare regime to help protect your skin from the chill. Here are six ways to help combat the cold wreaking havoc on your complexion…

1. Ditch the dryness

Central heating on full blast can leave your skin feeling scaly. Dr Rekha Tailor, founder and Medical Director of Health & Aesthetics clinic, explains why reaching for a heavy moisturiser is not always the skin saviour that you were hoping for.

“Slapping on thick, greasy and ineffective moisturisers are detrimental to your skin. This is because they weaken the skin’s barrier function and alter the natural function of skin self-hydration. The skin becomes addicted to the use of moisturiser and is unable to self-regulate itself. It is the skin’s own self-regulation that keeps it looking youthful.

“Normal skin has oil-producing sebaceous glands that naturally lubricate the skin and keep it properly hydrated by preventing excessive water loss or absorption. Moisturisers work to prevent water loss by coating the skin with a substance to trap moisture – replicating what the healthy sebum balance does normally, thus inhibiting the skin from carrying out its job.

I would suggest using an oil-free alternative such as ZO Skin Health Daily Power Defence.  It not only rebuilds your skin’s natural barrier function, but also helps to protect from free radicals.”

2. Irritated skin is not to be ignored

Heading out into the chilly weather may make your nose glow, but this should soon pass once you’re back inside in the warmth. However, if your face still feels irritated, your choice of skincare could help soothe your skin.

Switch to a more sensitive cleanser, such as the brand-new Sesderma’s SENSYSES Liposomal Classic Cleanser (£10.90, www.sesderma.co.uk).  This can work wonders for all skin types as it contains Panthenol and Soybean to stimulate the synthesis of collagen, moisturise and heal the skin. Better yet, it is a 3 in 1 make-up remover, cleanser and toner – so perfect for those who are tight on time!

3. Show your eyes some TLC

Walking through strong winds can not only make your eyes water, but it can also make the skin around the eyes feel tighter than normal. Try the Embryolisse Smoothing Eye Contour Care Cream (£24.99, Boots), which includes a combination of vitamins, as well as hyaluronic acid – a miracle anti-ageing ingredient which helps to retain moisture, keeping skin plump, firm and wrinkle-free – and plant stem cells which help skin cells regenerate themselves.

Vitamin A works to stimulate cell renewal, while sesame oil and Vitamin E slow down the formation of free radicals, the harmful substances that can cause the formation of bags under the eyes.

Found naturally in the body’s joints, nerves, skin, hair, and eyes, hyaluronic acid is regularly used in beauty products because it can hold up to 3,000 times its weight in water, giving it a fantastic ability to moisturise.

4. Sunburn can still occur

“Remembering sunscreen is important, it isn’t just for the summer. Applying a broad-spectrum oil-free sunscreen to the face and even the hands will help protect your skin from unnecessary damage from the cold, wind and of course the sun. ZO Skin Health Sunscreen and Primer SPF 30 is a perfect option as it is a non-greasy, quick-drying sunscreen with a sheer matte finish offering broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB rays that can be used alone or worn under makeup for a more even, long-lasting application,” recommends  Dr Rekha

 

5. Prevent chapped lips

When keeping your skin silky smooth – don’t forget about your lips, which can feel especially chapped and dry in the cold weather. Keep a Korres Lip Butter (£6.00, Lookfantastic.com) at hand! A buttery balm that melts on the lips and offers a shiny, tinted finish, available in six different shades.  A mixture of Shea Butter and Rice Wax offers deep hydration and softness. Ideal for the common winter-curse of chapped lips!

 

6. Stay bright all winter

Niggling winds and freezing cold temperatures can leave your skin feeling less than glowing!  Add some vitamin C to your skincare with DAYTOX Vitamin C Serum, (£29, Waitrose).

Formulated to provide an instant glow, this serum with 10% Vitamin C tones and rejuvenates the skin, giving it a bright and radiant sheen that you can see straight away.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Rekha Tailor is the Founder and Medical Director of multi-award winning Health & Aesthetics clinic, based in Elstead, Surrey.

She trained at Manchester Medical School and is a fully accredited general practitioner and aesthetic practitioner. She is a full member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine, and the Royal College of General Practitioners.

With over 13 years’ experience in the aesthetics industry, Dr. Tailor is now one of the UK’s leading non-surgical cosmetic specialists and is known for achieving subtle, natural results for her patients.