As if the freezing temperatures and shorter days wasn’t enough, many of us also suffer with dry, sensitive and lacklustre skin during the winter months. Dry, chapped knuckles and lips are not fun either and I know the pain of the cold weather aggravating the eczema on my hands… 

Thanks to the fluctuations in temperature and the harsh central heating, the colder months can wreak havoc on your skin. However, there are steps you can incorporate in your skincare routine to bring life back to your complexion: 

Moisturising Facial Cleanser 

Your skin should feel calm and hydrated after cleansing. If you find that your cleanser makes your skin feel tight and crying out for immediate moisturiser application, then you may want to try a gentle, more hydrating cleanser. 

I like Cetaphil Cleanser in the morning, as it doesn’t leave my skin feeling tight. I use the Elemis Pro Collagen Cleansing Balm at night as it dissolves all my makeup (even eye makeup) and SPF so quickly, effectively and gently! 

Gentle Exfoliator 

Next comes exfoliation to slough away dead skin to reveal a radiant, healthy winter complexion. However, it is important to note that exfoliation may sensitise your skin if used too frequently, so choosing a facial exfoliator, whether it is a physical scrub or a liquid exfoliator, is a personal choice. You know how sensitive your skin is, so if you have sensitive, dry skin then opt for a gentle exfoliating liquid up to three times a week. 

I like using the Alpha H Liquid Gold 5% Glycolic Acid once or twice a week. 

Moisturising Face Mask 

There are various different types of face mask formulas such as clay, sheet and sleeping masks. Look out for masks with moisturising properties, that promise to rejuvenate and smooth your complexion without drying out your skin. I only use face masks once (maybe twice) a week and use them at night after I have exfoliated my skin. 

I like Gatineau Aquamemory Moisturising Cream Mask for a nourishing mask treatment. 

Hyaluronic Acid 

If you haven’t heard of Hyaluronic Acid, then where have you been this year? Approximately half of the hyaluronic acid in your body is in your skin, where it binds to water to help retain moisture. However, the ageing process and exposure to the sun and pollution can decrease the amount of HA in your skin. This is where HA-based skincare products come in; These serums claim to reduce wrinkles, redness, and dryness… which makes sense because hydration = youthful complexion. 

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum is a great first choice because it is affordable, fast absorbing and very effective at locking in the moisture. Apply a small amount to damp skin for the best results. 

Moisturiser 

During the colder months, you might have to swap out your regular light moisturiser for a more nourishing night-time moisturiser. I like Liz Earle Superskin Moisturiser as not only does it smell lovely and relaxing (thanks to the neroli), but it also contains plant oils to lock in moisture and transforms dry, dull complexions. 

It is so important to not only look after the skin on your face, but also your neck and décolletage. Why? The neck and chest are tell–tale areas of ageing, so don’t abandon them!  

Eye Cream 

The skin around your eyes is thinner and therefore more sensitive than any other area of your face. A thicker formula, like your regular moisturiser, is too heavy and may cause milia under your eyes. Gently dab a small amount of eye cream along the orbital bone beneath your eyes. 

I like Lulu’s Timebomb eye cream as it instantly moisturises and smooths dry texture around my eyes and makes me look wide awake, despite lack of sleep! 

Body Creams 

Cold weather and harsh central heating can also negatively affect the skin on your hands and body. I have sensitive, eczema-prone skin on my hands, so I always keep a gentle, but highly moisturising hand cream in my handbag. I also massage in body lotion after I have had a shower. 

I like Korres Body Balsam Olive body lotion as it’s very nourishing, but non-greasy, which means I can quickly get dressed. No one likes standing naked and cold as you wait for your body lotion to sink in! 

Remember, your skin is your largest organ. Just as you stock up on Vitamin C to protect your immune system, you need to protect your skin too! 

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