Winter-proof your skin with these five tips

WHILE most people protect their skin in summer, they forget to do so in winter.

Dr Lanza

WHILE most people protect their skin in summer, they forget to do so in winter.

It’s important not to disregard a winter skincare regime, as the season can play havoc on the skin without the proper morning ritual. So, if you want to postpone that facelift for a few more years, here are top tips to add into your beauty routine.

1. Choose the right moisturiser

Dr Lanzer, renowned Dermatologic Cosmetic Surgeon from D’Lumiere, recommends “before you do anything else, you must have a good moisturiser to match your skin.” Such as the D’lumiere Esthetique day defence - a gentle cream to rejuvenate as well as hydrate the skin to improve the protective barrier against the sun’s UV damage. There are many moisturisers out there, but the wrong moisturiser will not provide you with the benefits you’re after.

One of the things to avoid during the cold winter months is a moisturiser with petroleum-based ingredients. These ingredients are proven to dry out the skin, something you definitely do not need during the freeze.

The best moisturisers for the summer months are usually oil or water-based. Of course, the one you choose does depend on your skin type, for example, if you suffer from acne, do not choose an oil-based moisturiser, since this could make the problem worse. Instead, go for the safer water-based option.

2. Shield your skin from the cold

Using the right products is one thing, but protecting your skin against the cold is another. During the summer months, you use sunscreen to protect your skin against its environment, but nothing is done during the winter?

The sun is still out in the winter, yet only a select few people use sunscreen. Sunscreen should be used in the winter as well, accompanied by adequate weather protection provided by the right clothing, so, be sure to stock up on gloves and scarves.

3. Get a home humidifier

One of the biggest problems for our skin during the winter months can be found in our homes. Heating can dry the air in the home, consequently making your skin dry out faster.

Even though you can’t forego heating during the winter months, there are things you can do to ensure your skin retains its moisture. One of these ways is by obtaining a good humidifier; a system that puts moisture back into the air. Humidifiers are widely available and quite affordable, so you do not necessarily have to break the bank to have one in your home.

4. Stay hydrated

It’s easy to stay hydrated in the summer months as most of us are wired that way. When it is warm, you need to drink more to stay hydrated. However, this important fact is often forgotten in winter, even though we need just as much.

Water is consumed less during the winter season. Many people prefer warmer drinks, including cocoa and tea, disregarding their necessary daily water intake. Fortunately, there are still ways to stay warm while drinking enough H20, for example, a glass of warm water with a hint of lemon before bed.

5. Avoid anything that is harsh on your skin

Our skin tends to be more fragile during the winter months, so it will need extra protection. It also explains why many people suffer an outbreak of dermatitis or eczema during the winter, since their fragile skin is more susceptible to the influence of allergens and irritants.

To avoid common problems such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis, it is best to avoid allergens and irritants. While you cannot ban them all from your surroundings, there are some basic ones you can steer clear of.

One of the things to avoid during the winter months is wool. Everyone knows that wool is an irritating fabric, so it is more likely to cause redness and other skin-related problems during the winter months.

You should also pay close attention to any detergents or laundry products you are using. Some of these products are packed with harmful chemicals, causing an outbreak as soon as you put on freshly-washed clothing, so, be on the lookout for gentler detergents and laundry products this winter.

Are there more irritants that are causing an allergic reaction? Write down what causes your skin distress in the winter and eliminate them from your environment.

Originally published as Winter-proof your skin with these five tips