Winter’s cold snap has well and truly arrived and the cool winter air isn’t always friendly to our skin. Dryness, tightness, irritation and sensitivity are just some of the unpleasantness this time of year can bring. We spoke to Software doctor and skin specialist, Dr Lauren Thomas, about how to keep your skin glowing and hydrated during the colder months.
Steps for a hydrating winter skincare routine
Layering
“If your skin is very dry, try layering your moisturiser,” says Dr Lauren. This could be two layers of moisturiser instead of one, or a thinner moisturiser followed by a thicker cream. If you’re in dire need of hydration, opt for a hydrating sheet mask.
Don’t neglect your at-risk areas
“Don’t forget the most at-risk areas of dehydration — the hands, feet and lips,” says Dr Lauren. Keeping a hand cream and lip balm in your purse during winter can save your skin. A not-too-hot foot bath followed by lotion can give your feet the much-needed TLC they could be lacking during the winter months.
Remember SPF
“Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean sunscreen isn’t needed. Check the UV index as sunscreen can still be required,” explains Dr Lauren. Apply sunscreen as the final step of your morning skincare routine.
Tips for keeping your skin hydrated
Here are Dr Lauren’s top tips for avoiding dryness:
- Apply moisturiser immediately after washing your face or showering — having your skin be ever so slightly damp to the touch can help trap water and moisturiser into the skin
- Have warm showers instead of excessively hot showers
- Use gentle products
- Use ointments or thicker cream-based products
Hydrating ingredients to look out for
According to Dr Lauren, the best hydrating ingredients to look out for include:
- Urea – essential for maintaining a hydrated skin barrier
- Ceramides – help to shield the skin from dehydration and protect against outside irritants
- Glycerin – increases water retention
- Hyaluronic acid – helps with skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Ultra hydrating skincare products
Learn more about our favourite products here.
Read about some other hydrating winter skincare products below.
