Did you know that, just like your wardrobe, your skincare routine needs to change with the seasons? As soon as you start reaching for your cosy jumpers and winter boots, it’s time to rethink your skincare routine to keep your skin hydrated, protected, and glowing.
The colder months can take a toll on your skin, making it feel drier, rougher, and more sensitive. But with the right approach, you can combat winter skin woes and keep your complexion looking youthful and fresh. Here’s everything you need to know about winter skincare.
Why Does Skin Feel Drier in Winter?
One of the most common winter skincare complaints is dry, flaky skin. While cold weather is a big culprit, there’s more to the story. Factors such as central heating, low humidity, wind exposure, stress, and underlying skin conditions like eczema all play a role in skin dehydration.
If your skin is feeling tight, rough, or irritated, it’s time to take action. Making a few simple swaps in your routine can make all the difference in maintaining hydrated, happy skin.
Switch Up Your Cleanser
Your summer gel cleanser might have worked wonders during the warmer months, but in winter, you need something gentler. Foaming cleansers can strip your skin of essential oils, leaving it feeling tight and uncomfortable. Instead, opt for a creamy or oil-based cleanser to help maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Try: Alumier MD SensiCalm – a gentle, hydrating cleanser designed for sensitive or dry skin, helping to soothe and maintain the skin barrier.
Upgrade Your Moisturiser
Winter is the time to ditch lightweight lotions and opt for richer, more nourishing creams. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin help to lock in moisture and repair the skin’s protective barrier. If you’re struggling with particularly dry or sensitive skin, using a barrier cream or balm can provide an extra layer of protection against the harsh elements.
Try: Alumier MD HydraRich – an intensely hydrating moisturiser packed with peptides, ceramides, and antioxidants to protect against environmental stressors.
Exfoliate – But Be Gentle
Flaky skin can make your complexion look dull, but before you reach for a harsh scrub, think again. Over-exfoliating can weaken your skin barrier and lead to increased sensitivity. Instead, opt for gentle exfoliation using lactic or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs). These help to slough away dead skin cells without causing irritation. Always follow up with a hydrating serum or moisturiser to replenish lost moisture.
Try: Alumier MD Bright & Clear Solution – a gentle exfoliating toner with lactic acid and salicylic acid to promote cell renewal and brighten the skin.
Keep Your Skin Barrier Strong
Your skin’s microbiome plays a crucial role in protecting against environmental aggressors. In winter, harsh weather and indoor heating can disrupt this balance. Look for moisturisers containing prebiotics and postbiotics to help nourish your skin barrier. Taking a prebiotic or probiotic supplement can also support your skin from within, keeping it calm and resilient.
Try: Alumier MD Recovery Balm – a soothing postbiotic-infused moisturiser that helps to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce redness.
Sunscreen – Yes, Even in Winter!
It’s a common myth that sunscreen isn’t necessary in the colder months. But did you know that up to 80% of UV rays can still penetrate your skin on cloudy days? UV exposure is one of the leading causes of premature ageing, so keeping up with your daily SPF (at least SPF 30) is a must. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, especially in snowy conditions, remember that snow reflects UV radiation, increasing your exposure.
Try: Heliocare 360° Water Gel SPF 50+ – a lightweight yet intensely hydrating sunscreen offering full-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, visible light, and infrared-A radiation.
Hydrate from the Inside Out
Drinking enough water is just as important in winter as it is in summer. Hydration helps to keep your skin plump and radiant. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day and incorporate hydrating foods like cucumber, oranges, and avocados into your diet. Omega-3-rich foods such as salmon and walnuts can also help to keep your skin soft and supple.
Don’t Forget Your Lips!
Chapped lips are a common winter struggle. The thin skin on your lips makes them more prone to moisture loss. Keep a nourishing lip balm handy and apply it regularly – especially before heading outdoors. Avoid lip balms that sting or cause irritation, as these can actually make dryness worse. And while hot chocolates and coffees are comforting in cold weather, remember to balance them with plenty of water to keep your lips hydrated from within.
Try: Albus & Flora Multi-Active Lip Balm SPF 30 – a deeply hydrating lip balm that protects against environmental stressors and prevents chapped lips.
Consider Professional Skin Treatments
Winter is the perfect time to invest in skin treatments that can help restore hydration, boost collagen, and tackle signs of ageing. Popular treatments such as polynucleotides, Profhilo, and skin boosters can help to deeply nourish the skin, keeping it plump and youthful. If you’re struggling with persistent dryness or irritation, booking a professional skin consultation can help you find the best treatment options for your needs.
Final Thoughts
Winter doesn’t have to mean dull, dry skin. By making a few tweaks to your skincare routine, you can keep your complexion glowing all season long. If you’re unsure about the best products or treatments for your skin type, book a consultation with me. Together, we can create a personalised winter skincare plan to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.