Winter is infamous for being harsh on skin. The combination of lower humidity levels and cold, dry air outside coupled with central heating indoors is a surefire formula for dry, thirsty, irritated skin. Before you reluctantly resign yourself for another season of parched, cracked skin, a few simple winter skincare switches can make a significant difference, keeping your skin hydrated, well-moisturised, and free from irritation until the refreshing embrace of spring.
1. Slough away dead skin
While it can seem counterintuitive to exfoliate during winter, it’s actually more important than ever, with exfoliation revealing softer, smoother skin; allowing your hydrating skincare products to be absorbed better; and preventing breakouts and blemishes that occur as a result of dry, dead skin cells. Rather than reaching for a physical exfoliant, use a chemical or enzyme exfoliant, which works to break down the surface layer of dead skin cells and promote cell renewal. We like the Paula’s Choice 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant or Grown Alchemist Enzyme Exfoliant used once to twice a week. For acne-prone skin, try a daily leave-on exfoliant with salicylic acid, like the Farmacy Deep Sweep 2% BHA Pore Refining Toner or Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant.
2. Don’t ditch your SPF
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: SPF is a year-round skincare product. While you may not feel the warming effects of the sun, the sun’s UVA rays are still strong enough to contribute to premature ageing and poor skin quality. Opt for a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30+ – this will protect you from UVA and UVB rays – and apply it to your face, neck, and the backs of your hands.
3. When it comes to moisturiser, think rich
While light gel-creams and lotions are ideal for the warmer months, winter calls for something a little more heavy-duty. Trade in your moisturiser for a richer, more nourishing iteration. Try the Grown Alchemist Age-Repair Treatment Cream; enriched with peptides, this ultra-rich formula doubles as a leave-on masque and is designed for those in cold climates or recovering from skin trauma. Alternatively, the no-nonsense French beauty staple Bioderma Sensibio Rich Cream soothes and treats very dry skin while reducing skin sensitivity over time. For a lighter option, the La Mer Moisturizing Soft Cream is simultaneously lightweight and hydrating.
4. Add some oil
Adding oils to your skincare routine aids in strengthening the skin barrier, preventing transepidermal water loss, and sealing in much-needed hydration. Ideal for both face and body moisturisation, oils can be mixed into your current moisturiser or used alone on slightly damp skin before cream or lotion. Our favourite face oils are the Emma Lewisham Supernatural Triple Vitamin A+ Oil, Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil, and Q+A Super Food Facial Oil. Meanwhile, the Grown Alchemist Body Treatment Oil, Jurlique Rose Body Oil, Biossance 100% Squalane Oil, and Aesop Geranium Leaf Hydrating Body Treatment are ideal for total body care.
5. Lip service
Your lips are often the first part of your body to get dry and chapped. Give parched lips some extra attention by sloughing off dry skin with a physical exfoliator like the Burt’s Bees Conditioning Lip Scrub or the practically-edible Lush Bubblegum Lip Scrub, before applying a nourishing lip balm or lip cream. Our favourites are the Fresh Rose Petal Soft Lip Cream and Aceology Overnight Lip Mask.
6. Turn to a cream or milk cleanser
If you’re typically a fan of gel or foaming cleansers, now is the time to trade in for a creamier, more hydrating iteration. Try the Aesop Facial Cleansing Milk, Philosophy Nature In A Jar Gentle Detoxifying Cleanser With Agave, or CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser.
7. Stay out of hot water
While this is one skincare rule we’ll likely never be able to follow, it bears repeating: avoid long, scalding hot showers, as these can exacerbate issues like dry skin, rosacea, and eczema. Instead, opt to take shorter, lukewarm showers during the winter months. There. We said it.
8. Moisturise while wet
As soon as you step out of your – likely non-regulation hot – shower, moisturise asap, while skin is still damp. This allows your body oil or lotion to penetrate the skin’s surface better, making for optimal hydration. For a deeply nourishing experience, try the Minenssey Body Lotion, La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP+M, or Kiehl’s Creme de Corps.
Words by AR Staff
Feature image courtesy of Mark Aghatise for L’Officiel
