Your Skin this winter

​Your guide to Winter protection.

The cold frosty winter weather outside and the warm dry climate of central heating can take its toll on your skin so here are a few steps to help protect it during this season.
 
Problem: Dehydration
The inside environment can be arid with little moisture in the air as we crank up the central heating. This can leave skin feeling tight and with more fine lines.
Solution: Hyaluronic acid is an ideal ingredient for all skin types from dry to oily and easy to apply in a serum form under a moisturiser. It is a found naturally in the skin and helps bind moisture leaving skin plumper and smoother. Dry skin will also benefit from the addition of oil based serums that can replenish the natural oils the skin is lacking, this will help to seal moisture in the skin.
 
Problem: Sensitivity
Temperature fluctuations can lead to sensitivity as we move from freezing cold outside to warm and toasty inside. This can lead to impairment of the skins natural barrier function. Skin can become red and flushed as the body adjusts to the temperature difference.
Solution: Soothe and calm the skin with anti-inflammatory ingredients such as Oatmeal and Green Tea. Moisturisers can act as a shield by keeping precious moisture within the skin while repairing the barrier function.
 
Problem: UV exposure
Even though it may not be hot outside UV rays will still have a detrimental effect on the skin by generating free radicals that lead to sun damage and premature ageing.
Solution: Using a broad spectrum sunscreen (protection from UVA and UVB rays) every day will protect vulnerable skin, especially when skiing. Snow reflects the UV rays and can increase the UV exposure by twice as much. Always remember to re-apply sunscreens every two hours for maximum protection.
 
Problem: Chapped lips
Lips are particularly prone to dryness at this time of year. Flaking and chapping can leave them sore and sensitive.
Solution: Seal and protect lips with a nourishing application of lip balm. As lips have no hairs they also lack the natural lubricating oil, sebum, that the rest of the skin has which makes them susceptible to drying out. As they also have fewer pigment cells look for products with a built in SPF. ​

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