SOS plan for winter skin

 

Pic credit: Everyday Cashmere

Skincare, much like fashion, needs to be adapted with changing weather conditions. Here are our best tips to winter-proof your skincare routine and keep your complexion radiant and comfortable during the cooler seasons.

Layer up

Winter is the season to up the skincare ante by adding products to cushion the skin barrier, which is naturally predisposed to drying out in winter. You may want to enhance your routine with a facial mist, serum, oil, primer with benefits or mask. As a rule, apply layers from lightest to heaviest. Don’t forget hands and lips by consistently using a nourishing lip balm and hand cream to seal moisture in.

Pic credit: Laneige Australia

Invigorate dull looking skin!

Our skin is prone to appearing dull and lacking radiance during winter. Introduce Vitamin C into your routine, an ingredient used to brighten the skin, fight pigmentation (often exacerbated through summer) and promote collagen production. Rescue dry skin by using a gentle exfoliant, either chemical or physical, whilst cleansing to slough away the buildup of excess debris.

Get cosy with a mask

Pic credit: Susan Törnqvist

Elevate the cosy season with a comforting face mask to nourish, hydrate and cocoon the skin. It’s a great excuse for quality self-care time or even applied as an overnight treatment to amplify the results. Masks come in a variety of textures and types, suiting varying skin concerns. During winter skin tends to be dehydrated so supercharge water reserves with a refreshing mask.

Add oil

Winter is the ideal season to introduce an oil. Switching temperatures constantly (central heating, cold air, hot showers) disrupts the skin’s moisture balance, meaning skin can become flakier and drier. Oils help to soothe the skin, lock in hydration and boost the skin barrier to prevent future moisture loss. Either mix into moisturiser (morning and night) or layer in for an indulgent winter skin ritual. Don’t forget to take the application down to your neck and décolletage.

Pic credit: Kora Organics

Don’t forget an SPF

An SPF is your number one anti-ageing ally and should be applied all year round. Winter sunshine can feel less intense, lulling us into a false sense of security and UVA rays (responsible for premature skin ageing) remain strong all year round. Slather on sunscreen throughout winter and don’t forget neck and hands.