Winter skin routines to combat the cold weather

Winter weather can take a heavy toll on our skin, with the combination of dry, cold air outside and central heating inside robbing it of its natural moisture. While most of us will experience dryer skin during winter, the cold can be particularly detrimental if you already suffer from a skin condition, such as eczema or psoriasis. The good news is that flare ups can be minimised by sticking to a sensible skin routine. Whether you have a skin condition worsened by winter or you want to keep your complexion clear over the coming months, here are five ways you can support your skin this winter.

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise

Moisturiser is a skincare staple and it’s even more important in the winter months. Emollients like petroleum jelly and shea butter contain more oil than your typical moisturiser or lotion, which makes them great for hydrating dry patches. They work by forming a protective layer around the skin that traps moisture, softening and soothing the skin. When it comes to moisturisers, look out for ingredients such as vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. The former is rich in antioxidants that protect the skin against pollution (which is higher in the winter) while the latter can hold 1,000 times its own weight in moisture.

Drink plenty of water

It may seem obvious, but drinking your recommended daily amount of water really does wonders for your skin. This is even more important during the winter, when low humidity robs your skin of its natural moisture. If you don’t fancy drinking cold water when it’s chilly outside, try sipping warming herbal teas like turmeric, ginger or lemon to get your recommended two litres a day.

Exfoliate regularly

It might be the last thing you feel like doing when your skin is feeling dry and itchy, but exfoliation allows your moisturiser to better penetrate dry skin, while also stimulating the growth of new skin cells – improving your skin tone and texture. Some exfoliants can be irritating, especially in winter, so try them on a small patch of skin first. If your skin is really dry or irritated, always consult your doctor before starting a new skincare regime.

Avoid hot showers

Appealing as a hot shower on a cold morning may be, doing so will actually draw moisture away from your skin, stripping it of its natural oils. A quick shower or a bath in lukewarm water is a far better choice. To lock in moisture, moisturise directly afterwards with a glycerine or hyaluronic acid-based lotion to increase the amount of water that’s drawn into your skin. Baby oil (mineral oil) is also a good choice, because it prevents water from evaporating from your skin.

Choose your skin products carefully

Winter is a good time to re-evaluate your skincare products. Swap moisture-sapping face wipes for a gentle, moisturising cleanser to keep your skin hydrated, avoiding any that contain added fragrances or alcohol. Your lips will need some care too; use a moisturising balm, such as petroleum jelly, to heal dry, cracked lips.