Theresa’s Top Tips for Skin Survival in the Cold
Winter is on its way! Time to bring out the woolly jumpers, knee-high boots and some killer moisturiser…
Can you remember last year’s tight skin, cracked lips and sensitive cheeks? Just because the sun’s no longer beaming down on us doesn’t mean our skin’s not still at risk. UV rays are still a danger, but there’s also the added punishment of cold air, wind, and low humidity outdoors which dry your skin out.
Similarly, warm and dry air indoors steals moisture from your skin. Without the proper care, dry skin can lead to redness, itchiness, chapping, and cracking, and even a flare up of other skin conditions such as eczema and acne.
You throw a couple of extra layers on your shoulders during winter, but what about your face; how do you protect it?
Just follow my top tips to make sure you maintain your summer skin throughout the cold winter months:
Wear your sunscreen
Despite the overcast appearance, UV rays aren’t too fussed when it comes to clouds – so make sure you continue to use an SPF 20 even on cloudy days to protect your skins for wrinkles.
Maintain your vitamin D levels
UVB rays stimulate vitamin D production, which is needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. Levels can drop in the winter months so make sure you either take supplements or invest in the brand new in clinic IV Vitamin Therapy (IntraVita) treatment. IntraVita Intravenous (IV) Vitamin Therapy offers the opportunity to replenish your body’s natural vitamin and amino acids levels in a way that can’t be matched by oral multivitamin supplements.
Try to avoid hot showers
If you can brave it, turn the heat down in your shower as the hot water pulls any natural oils from your skin which will be key throughout the winter months for preserving your skin’s bounce.
Keep hydrated
You might think that just because it’s cold you don’t need to drink as much water – you’re wrong! Central heating, air conditioning and temperature changes are skin’s worst nightmare and very much a part of winter. Drink an extra glass of water with every meal to help your skin deal with the hit.For an added boost, included a daily dose of the multi-award winning Skinade drink. Containing a patent pending formulation of active ingredients that aims to boost your body’s natural production of collagen and hyaluronic acid, Skinade collagen drinks provide a breakthrough, “inside out” approach to skincare.
Review your skincare routine
Like your clothes, you should also review your skincare routine in winter. Because of the moisture-sapping conditions and extremes of temperatures that your skin is subjected to, you may also need a moisturiser that works a bit harder or a gentler cleanser that doesn’t strip the oil from your skin. Everyone’s skin is different, that’s why we always recommend a skin consultation before you invest in any new products. We love Obagi Medical products which have been developed by top dermatologists and can also be used to treat a range of skin disorders like rosacea, acne and eczema. Book your skin consultation with Theresa today to discover the best skincare routine for you.
Consider professional skin treatments
Winter is a great time of year for skin treatments, particularly those that are a little bit more intense, like the Perfect Peel and micro needling. With sun exposure before or after such procedures there is a higher risk of unwanted post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation. Autumn and winter therefore present an opportunity to have these treatments without having to hide away under a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses!
