With low humidity and cooler temperatures, not to mention hot showers and indoor heating, now is the time to be layering up your self-care routines with nourishing skin, hands (+nails) and lip care products. We spoke to Mavala skincare expert Edna La Frenais from Beauty by Edna to share her wisdom on adapting to the winter chill.
Mavala’s Skincare Expert Edna La Frenais from Beauty By Edna
Skin
You may feel like your skin is dry, uncomfortable, tight and dull-looking. A lack of moisture and oil weakens your skin’s natural protective barrier, making it susceptible to irritation and discomfort. At the peak of winter it is important to be feeding and nourishing your skin by layering products. A facial mist is ideal after cleansing and during the day to relieve parched, thirsty skin. Follow this with a targeted serum to deliver hydration to the deeper layers of the skin. A rich, heavy moisturiser is ideal to lock in hydration and comfort the skin, forming a literal barrier to the elements. Overnight balms are perfect for the winter months, cocooning and nurturing the skin as it repairs itself overnight. Look for products that contain hyaluronic acid, refined oils and antioxidants to counteract impaired skin barriers and infuse the skin with nourishment.
Pic by Lux Nomade Magazine
Hands (+ nails)
Not only are we fighting the elements but also washing our hands continuously and using hand sanitiser at every opportunity. It’s not enough to apply hand cream once a day at nighttime, rather it should be constantly replenished after every wash. Keep a tube available at home, your work desk, handbag and car. If your hands a particularly red and chapped, look for products that cater to this uncomfortable concern by providing a film-forming shield to the hands. During winter use cotton gloves over a rich, hydrating overnight hand care treatment to intensify the treatment. Keep nails and cuticles soft and moisturised with oils and serums.
Pic by Dr. Deanne Mraz Robinson
Pic by Stefani Zupanoska
Lips
Lips, unlike the face and body skin, are deprived of sebaceous glands, which maintain the functioning of the skin's natural barrier. They are, therefore, prone to dryness and cracks and should be better protected during winter. A lack of care combined with a dry and cold environment can quickly dry out lips. Regular application (multiple times through the day) of a nourishing lipstick or balm to the lips is essential.
Pic by Stephanie Cubeddu
General winter care tips:
Buff and exfoliate your skin – dryness will build up as excess debris on the surface of the skin and needs to be buffed off with a gentle exfoliant to ensure all the additional layers can penetrate the skin and get to work. Once or twice a week is sufficient. At the same time, buff your lips.
Work at it – through winter our skin, hands, nails and lips require extra care and attention. Take the time to nourish these areas with specific solutions.
Drinking water goes without saying to hydrate the body internally resulting in a noticeable change in the skin.
Cleanse correctly – avoid harsh cleaners that will strip the skin and seek advice from a professional skincare expert on the ideal product to maintain a balance in your particular skin.
Book your professional Mavala Facial at Beauty by Edna
