Because we’re not thinking about sun protection as much during the colder seasons, many of us neglect our skin, leaving it prone to damage. Following these simple winter survival tips should help to keep your skin safe through the harsh conditions.
1. Always moisturise. Once you’ve had a bath or shower, apply body moisturiser, and moisturise your face morning and night. This should help to prevent your skin drying out.
2. A gentle exfoliating body and face wash from time to time will help to remove dead skin, ensuring moisturiser is effectively absorbed. Some people avoid exfoliating in winter, thinking it will dry their skin out, but this is not true; provided you follow up with a moisturiser, exfoliating is very beneficial.
3. Always wear gloves if you’re going outside as hands are particularly prone to dryness in the winter. Having a hand cream with you at all times is another way to help your hands, and you should use it after washing them or any time they feel dry.
4. Keeping your body hydrated by drinking the recommended two litres of fluids per day will help to keep your skin hydrated and fight dryness.
5. Ensure you carry a lip balm with you, and try to avoid licking your lips if they feel dry. Using a lip balm will protect them against cracking and protect them from the cold and wind.
6. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and helps fight dry skin and prevent free radical damage. It also aids the absorption of moisture and can be found in many good face creams. You can also boost your Vitamin E levels by eating foods such as nuts, olives and seeds.
7. It is believed that Omega oils can benefit the skin in preventing it drying out. Omega oils are great for maintaining a healthy body all year round and can be found in oily fish, seeds or taken as a capsule.
8. If you are prone to a flaky, irritated scalp, remember to shampoo and condition your hair with products designed to combat dandruff. The skin on your head is just as prone to dryness as the skin elsewhere on your body. Natural shampoos and conditioners are ideal because they don’t contain some of the harsh chemicals which can strip your hair and scalp of its natural protection.
9. If you find your skin is still dry, consider a humidifier for your home. Central heating can cause dry skin, so a humidifier helps by adding moisture to the air.
