Your wardrobe isn't the only thing you need to change up in the winter months. As the weather becomes drier and colder, addiing rich moisture is essential to prep and treat winter skin.
The lightweight gel moisturizers, and foaming facial washes that worked well in summer may not cut it come December. Keep reading to discover how to change your skincare for winter with No7’s guide and winter skin care tips.
What happens to skin in the winter?
Skin often appears drier, duller and flakier in the winter months – especially more delicate areas around the eyes and lips. Winter can also trigger sensitive skin, so the hands, face and any other areas exposed to the elements may suffer.
Why is my skin so dry in the winter?
Dry indoor heat, cold weather, harsh wind, and low humidity levels can all strip the skin of moisture. This can lead to a complexion that feels drier, less radiant and more flaky than usual.
Severely dry skin in winter can also lead to microscopic cracks in the outer skin layer, leading to inflammation, itching and redness in the skin.
How to keep skin hydrated in winter
Lifestyle tips for winter skin
Along with adopting a winter skincare routine, there are a few lifestyle changes that you can implement to help with dry, winter skin.
- Use a humidifier in your home: They help draw moisture back into the air which can help dry, winter skin to retain hydration.
- Use milder temperatures when showering: Although a hot shower can warm you up, hot water can strip skin of its natural oils.
- Hydrate from the inside: Drinking enough water can help keep skin hydrated and reduce dryness.
- Limit alcohol intake: Alcohol can increase inflammation in the skin and may worsen dry, winter skin as it has a dehydrating effect on the body.
- Apply SPF daily: While there is less UVB around in winter, levels of UVA are still significant enough to age and damage the skin.
A winter skincare routine
Maintaining skin’s hydration and moisture with a winter skincare routine helps protect the skin from the drying effect of external aggressors and central heating.
