WINTER SKINCARE ROUTINE

December 5, 2022

Looking to switch up your skincare routine in anticipation of the colder months ahead?

If you find that your skin freaks out in winter, you’re not alone. From the cold weather to fluctuations in central heating, our skin takes a battering in the colder months. The result? Dry, irritated skin that’s more prone to breakouts.

So how do you combat seasonal skin fluctuations? By adapting your winter skincare routine. We’re not suggesting you completely chuck away every skincare product in your bathroom cabinet, but by making a few small tweaks, you can really help to bolster your skin’s natural protection, leaving your complexion happy and healthy in the run-up to winter.

Here are some tips to transition your skincare routine for winters:

#1 Use a moisturising cleanser

As the temperature plummets, humidity levels also drop, and our skin loses its moisture to the dry air around us. So, during the winter season, switch to a moisturising cleanser that can help to hydrate parched skin and support the skin’s barrier to help protect the skin from the damaging effects of the cold weather. This also helps to wash away the dead skin cells, without leaving the skin feeling tight or dry.

#2 Cleanse your skin

The key to keeping skin clean and free of accumulated dirt is cleansing twice a day, both in the morning and at night. Dr Rana says, “The skin’s natural cell turnover process creates debris on the upper layers that need to be removed before applying any other products. That’s because they can affect the efficacy of future key ingredients that penetrate into the skin. Cleansing also increases the blood flow, and aids elimination of toxins. So, don’t rush it.

#3 Hyaluronic acid

Exposure to the harsh and chilly winds during the winter season can lead to dry skin. So, hydrate you're skin always, and use hyaluronic acid for amazing results.

#4 Add retinol to your skincare routine

Retinol is great to plump and smoothen the skin. It should always be followed up with a good SPF. It increases cell turnover, regulates oil flow, and improves the appearance of pigmentation

#5 Use sunscreen as a shield in skincare

The biggest mistake you can make is not wearing SPF during the winter season,” says Dr Rana. Our skin can be damaged by UV rays all around the year. Use a mineral-based SPF for its lightness, breathability, ocean-friendliness, and ease of use.

#6 Vitamin C is a winner for skincare

Add vitamin C to your skincare regime. Vitamin C works effectively during the winter season and helps combat SPF rays that aren’t fully blocked by sunscreen. Dr Rana says, “It is also good for skin pigmentation, which helps to boost collagen production, resulting in a brighter complexion.”

Follow a nutritious diet

It is always important to complement a winter skin routine with a nutritious and seasonal diet, along with your skincare regime. During this season, eat lots of squashes like butternut and pumpkin that are rich in beta-carotene. This helps to aid cell renewal, regulates skin function, and promotes collagen production