A fine line between…the facts about small wrinkles

Dryness, increased fine lines and redness are some of the most common skin issues at this time of the year. Winter weather can play havoc with your overall skin condition. Humidity decreases whilst cold temperatures and winds increase causing skin to lose essential oils, water leaving it feeling tight and uncomfortable or dry, rough, red and irritated.

It’s not just cold winds and freezing temperatures that do this: seeking shelter in the warm indoors can also cause damage. Transferring between warm interiors and cold exteriors causes the skin to increase it’s metabolism and more efficient tissue respiration. We have to take more precautions because of this otherwise the skin can be left dry, flaky leading to more surface wrinkles and irritated capillaries.

The first steps towards a winter defence are to make a few changes to your normal skincare regime. Use low irritation products that are suitable foe sensitive skin without using harsh synthetic ingredients, artificial colours and fragrances. Your cleanser is the first thing to get right as it and an oil-based cleanser is the best for winter use. This will immediately restore the oil and natural balance back into the skin. Adding a serum to the night time skincare routine is helpful as serums go deeper into the skin. A richer night cream will help too.

Oil-based skincare products are sought after in colder climates as they protect skin against colder climates. By using an oil rather than a cream , you will get much more targeted hydration. Try looking for products containing essential oils and vitamin E which will help to hydrate the skin leaving it supple and smooth. Vitamin A is also helpful in skin renewal and by applying a thin layer of complexion oil prior to your day cream will help.

Winter skin saviours

Certain ingredients can make a huge difference to winter-induced redness and dryness. Look for omegas that protect the skin and replenish the lipid barrier, anti-inflammatories that will help tackle any redness, prebiotics that help strengthen the skin’s matrix. Winter and cold winds also strip away another of the skin’s protective layers, the acid mantle. Soaps and harsh detergents also strip away this layer and can also change the pH of the skin.

The amount and frequency of application can help in skin looking and feeling hydrated. Be generous in your application of moisturiser – more is better during the winter. Take two or three minutes to activate your moisturiser by applying it in upward and outward movements. Lips and hands should receive special attention. The skin on your lips is unlike skin anywhere else on your body as it is extremely thin with little or no glands and thus produces no oil or melanin. Regular application of lip balm is crucial to prevent painful chapping. Hands are also prone to damage as they are constantly exposed so increase your use of hand cream to several times a day.

Physically protecting the skin from the elements using gloves, hats and scarves will also help. Avoid the temptation to have a steaming hot bath or shower when you get home as this can strip away more of that much needed oil from your skin. Eating and drinking items rich in omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids such as almonds, sunflower and sesame seeds will also help to nourish your skin. Cook with olive oil, eat less sugar and don’t forget to drink plenty of water throughout the day.