So, what can you do to ensure beautiful skin all year round?

As temperatures draw downwards, as daylight hours get shorter and as the air gets crisper, there are a few things that we need to think about when it comes to our daily skin care routine. The approach of winter brings a drop in humidity, a harsher wind chill factor and can result in sensitivities. In terms of our skin it’s a time to pay it more attention and to give it the care that it deserves. So, what can you do to ensure beautiful skin all year round?

Nourish

What you might not realise is that plump, radiant skin is best served from the inside. The skin’s cell renewal system works on a 28 day-cycle so healthy eating, drinking plenty of water, getting a good night’s rest and avoiding too much caffeine/ alcohol is always the best prescription for the health of your skin. Revive it when it’s a bit under the weather by sticking to a sensible regime and the rewards will follow.

There are a couple of other ways to boost the quality of your skin during winter. Keep up your Omega 3 intake, whether by supplements of through nutrition (try consuming more salmon, walnuts and flaxseed, for example). Fatty acids benefit the body in a lot of ways, particularly when the climate is colder. Aside from supporting the nervous system and improving heart health, they are perfect for improving your appearance, gracing you with a radiant complexion (and also shiny locks).

Protect your PH levels

Preserving your skin’s natural barrier is your best line of defence against the wrath of frigid temperatures. Do this by avoiding soap, surfactants and sulphates that can strip your skin. Looking for a cleanser that is soap-free and PH balanced. Avoid Sodium Lauryl Sulphate and Sodium Laureth Sulphate where possible. It has been proven that these chemicals can remove skin’s natural lipids (the oils in your skin that keep it smooth and hydrated).

Moisturise

Cold and wind can strip your skin of vital moisture. During winter look for a moisturiser high in emollient ingredients. Emollients provide a protective layer on the skin that guards against environments stresses. Therefore, they greatly reduce moisture loss. Some people are particularly susceptible to effects of winter temperatures on their skin and experience flare ups of serious skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema.

Some examples of high quality and natural emollient ingredients include coco/shea butter, argan/olive oil and also beeswax. They are perfect for anyone with dry, irritated or ageing skin. They are safe for use on sensitive skin. An emollient rich lip balm will serve you well during the winter months. It’s often hard to avoid cracked lips during this season.

Also, don’t skip the night cream. Your skin replenishes itself best at night and this is also, obviously, when the temperature drops lower. If you use a heater you will encounter even more dryness in the air. So make sure you do your best to protect your skin during the night with an emollient rich moisturiser. This is even better coupled with a serum and an eye-cream.

So, there you have it: some simple ways to care for your skin all year round. You don’t have to sacrifice beautiful skin just because it’s winter. With a little more care and attention you can overcome anything the season could possibly throw at you, particularly when it comes to your complexion and the health of your skin.