Seasonal Skincare Tips: Winter Edition

Skin Prep at Inn on the Lake, Ullswater.
Ladybirds Photography

Depending on the season, we should all be treating our skin a little differently to adapt to atmospheric changes and keep our complexion glowing, no matter how bright or gloomy it is outside. In winter, the drastic shift between cold outdoor air and warm indoor heating can create a perfect storm for skin issues. Cold air holds less moisture, leaving the skin exposed to dryness and irritation. Meanwhile, central heating systems sap even more moisture from the air, intensifying dehydration and disrupting the skin’s protective barrier. This combination can lead to redness, flakiness, and a dull complexion.

Let’s dive into some winter skincare essentials to help your skin stay hydrated, nourished, and radiant.

Everyday Skincare Basics

Before we get into winter-specific tips, here are some skincare non-negotiables you should practice daily, regardless of the season:

1. SUN PROTECTION. EVERY. SINGLE. DAY!
   The number one cause of premature ageing is sun damage, and it doesn’t take a bright summer’s day for it to happen. UV rays, which cause skin damage, can penetrate through clouds and remain powerful even in winter. If it’s frosty or snowy outside and the sun is shining, the risk increases as UV rays reflect off frost and snow, bouncing back up to your skin and doubling the exposure. Skipping SPF puts your skin at a disadvantage! If traditional sunscreens feel heavy or smell like summer holidays, consider these alternatives: lightweight formulas, tinted SPFs, or nourishing invisible options. Find one you love and make it a habit.

Winter Skincare Essentials

Here’s how to keep your skin happy in the cold and damp weather:

• Gentle Cleansing:
  Opt for a soft, milky, or oily cleanser to add hydration while cleansing. If needed, follow up with a light cream or foaming cleanser if double cleansing.
  Which you should be doing if you are wearing makeup to ensure there is no residue left to clog your pores and create more problems.

• Exfoliate Strategically:
  Use a chemical exfoliant to combat texture and dryness, especially on areas where makeup tends to cling. Avoid harsh physical scrubs that can damage the skin barrier.

• Lip Care:
  Protect and nourish your lips with products containing beeswax, pawpaw, or similar ingredients. Petroleum jelly is a good barrier but won’t repair or hydrate so things like vaseline works as a preventative, not a solution. Bonus tip: apply a generous amount of lip balm before bed to wake up with soft, plump lips!

• Evening Routine:
  Nighttime is the perfect opportunity to deeply nourish your skin. Consider cleansing earlier in the evening when you have more energy. While you sleep, your skin enters its natural repair mode, making it the ideal time for active ingredients and moisture to penetrate deeply. Since you're in a neutral environment and not exposed to harsh external factors, your skin can fully absorb these beneficial ingredients. Using a thick, nourishing cream or overnight mask allows you to work smarter, not harder, at treating your skin while you rest.

• Add a Glow:
  If winter leaves your skin looking dull, try a gradual tanning mist a couple of times a week. For example, the UTan x Jamie Genevieve 50% darker tanning mist adds warmth and glow, and its lavender and CBT ingredients offer calming, relaxing benefits.
  I use this product religiously and have done for years now. Not only has it helped calm my skin and make it glow with more colour it makes me feel so much more confidence without makeup on.

Bonus Tips

Hydration:
Don’t forget to hydrate from within! Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and enjoy herbal teas to keep your skin looking fresh and radiant. Staying well-hydrated is essential for maintaining a healthy complexion and ensuring your body has enough hydrating inside to protect our skin too.

Hand and Body Care:
Don’t neglect your hands or the rest of your body, which can also suffer in cold weather. Use a nourishing hand cream regularly to keep them soft and hydrated - I keep mine on my bedside table to use at night-time and by every sink in the house!
Try and swap out your usual shower gel for a shower creme or oil, something with a higher hydration and emollient value to give your skin a little more love.

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Winter doesn’t have to leave your skin feeling dry and dull. With the right routine and a little extra care, you can protect your skin’s barrier, maintain hydration, and even achieve a gorgeous winter glow. Remember, consistency is key! If you have any questions or need product recommendations, feel free to reach out.

Stay cosy and radiant this winter!

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