Protecting Your Skin During the Colder Months

As we reach some of the coldest months in the UK, it’s important to turn our attention to something many of us struggle with - dry skin in winter.

Cold, blustery conditions outside can leave your skin dry, tight and itchy, as cold air holds less moisture than warm air, leading to skin losing moisture and becoming dehydrated. Indoor heat can also make the air inside your home or office very dry causing your skin to lose moisture.

Hot showers or baths can also be damaging to our skin as hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, which is exacerbated during the winter months when the air is already dry.

And finally, winter sun can also be damaging to the skin. Although it may not be as hot as the summer months, the winter sun can still emit harmful UV rays that can damage the skin. This can lead to premature aging, sunburn and in more severe cases, skin cancer.

Here are some tips for protecting your skin during the colder months:

• Moisturise regularly
  Moisturising is crucial during the winter months. Use a rich, nourishing moisturiser to help lock in moisture and protect your skin from the harsh elements. Try applying it after showering or bathing, when your skin is still damp, to help seal in the moisture.
• Exfoliate gently
  Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells and promote cell renewal. However, it's essential to be gentle when exfoliating during the winter months, as your skin may be more sensitive. Try using a gentle exfoliant once a week to help brighten and soften your skin.
• Use a humidifier
  Using a humidifier indoors can help add moisture to the air and prevent your skin from becoming too dry.
• Protect your skin from the sun
  Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to help protect your skin from the harmful UV rays.
• Stay hydrated
  Drinking plenty of water is crucial for your overall health and wellbeing. It can also help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out, which is essential during the winter months.
• Avoid hot showers
  Although it may be tempting to take a hot shower on a cold winter day, it can actually be damaging to your skin. Instead, take a warm shower or bath and keep it short.

By following these tips you can help keep your skin looking and feeling its best throughout the winter. Remember, a little extra care can go a long way when it comes to skin care.