Winter is a tough season for your skin. The cold and dry weather can lead to a lack of hydration and dryness, which can cause breakouts and irritation. With so many skincare products and facials available on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the options. Read on for our favourite simple winter facial tips to keep your complexion happy all winter long.
Cleanse your face deeply with lukewarm water.
Hot water can cause redness and irritation to already dry skin, so avoid using it when cleansing your face. Using a thicker cleansing balm can also help ease irritation as it melts makeup without too much rubbing. Cleanse your face by first using a warm washcloth to dampen the skin, generously apply a cleansing balm and massage gently to remove all of the makeup from your skin. Use lukewarm water to rinse away the balm, and the washcloth to take any remaining residue, then pat dry with a soft towel. Double cleansing works well to ensure the skin is thoroughly cleansed.
Moisturise consistently.
A well-maintained moisturiser routine will help keep your skin well-hydrated in the winter and prevent dryness. In the warmer months you can sometimes get way with lighter creams, less regularly. We recommend changing the moisturisers you use from the summer. Generally in the winter your skin will benefit from something that provides deeper hydration.
After washing your face, pat it dry and apply a hydrating moisturiser – you can use a thick face cream or a lightweight serum. Being consistently with this, every morning and night for a glowing complexion all season long!
A weekly exfoliating mask can help remove debris, leaving behind a luminous glow.
On a weekly basis, an exfoliating mask can help remove debris and leave behind a luminous glow. Masks work by mechanically removing dead skin cells, with ingredients like walnut shell powder or oatmeal to gently scrub your face and neck. They also contain acids* that help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while also minimising large pores.
- Glycolic acid is a fantastic anti-aging agent that seems to do it all. It’s very effective at exfoliating skin and reducing fine lines, preventing acne, fading dark spots, increasing skin thickness, and evening out skin tone and texture.
- Salicylic acid belongs to a class of drugs known as salicylates. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid may work by helping the skin to shed dead cells from the top layer and by decreasing redness and swelling (inflammation). This decreases the number of pimples that form and speeds healing.
- Lactic acid increases cell turnover and helps eliminate accumulated dead skin cells on the epidermis — the top layer of the skin. When using lactic acid in 12% concentrations, the skin gets firmer and thicker. As a result, there is an overall smoother appearance and fewer fine lines and deep wrinkles.
*If you are unsure which acid mask is suitable for you skin/condition please consult your local clinic.
Sunscreen is your best winter beauty friend.
While we are all familiar with the importance of sunscreen during the summer, it’s equally important to use during winter months. The best solution is to apply an extra layer of SPF 30+ sunscreen over your moisturiser. Due to dry skin becoming drier and more fragile in the cold weather, your moisturiser may leave you feeling greasy or clogged up, so adding another layer might not feel the best – regular exfoliation will help with this .
Remember to apply SPF to those important but forgotten areas:
- The backs of hands
- Ears and neck (where sunburn is a risk)
Picking up new winter skincare habits can make all the difference.
Winter skin care is about more than just extra moisturiser. It’s about taking care of your skin on a deep level, so it can take care of you. Winter is the season where we face the elements, from harsh winds to sub-zero temperatures. This leaves the skin exposed and vulnerable to dryness, flakiness and even redness if you’re not careful and consistent with your routine.
To further boost your skin health, there are numerous in-clinic facials that can assist in protecting your skin. A Cryostar® facial uses cool temperatures to widen the blood vessels, increasing blood flow whilst delivering high levels of oxygen, enzymes and nutrients to your face and neck.
This increase in oxygen supply boosts collagen production, reduces the appearance of wrinkles and pores and improves skin elasticity. A natural, non-invasive way to look more radiant and to enhance your day to day routine to improve the quality and texture of your skin. Book a consultation for CryoFacial™ near you.
