Winter is on its way. Now is the time to start preparing your body winter skincare. Dry skin is common during winter so you need to transition your skincare to maintain a healthy skin barrier. As a basic rule, swap to gentle cleansers and richer moisturisers. Read on for our 6 full body winter skincare tips.
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6 Full Body Winter Skincare Tips
1. Check Your Water Temperature
It might seem appealing to run hot showers or baths in the colder temperatures – but don’t. Use lower water temperatures to avoid aggravating sensitive, irritated skin even more. Have shorter showers because prolonged exposure to hot water can penetrate the skin’s natural barrier. This in turn will make skin drier.
2. Use Gentle Cleansers
To combat winter dryness use gentle cleansers to soothe and remove any dirt or bacteria from the skin. The SkinBase Purifying Gel Cleanser is an excellent choice. Gentle cleansers can clean skin without stripping its natural oils. Your natural skin barrier protects you from the harsh winter elements. Consider double cleansing to keep your skin hydrated.
3. SPF All Year Round
Don’t think SPF is only for hot summer days. Always apply SPF on any exposed skin – UV protection is still vital in winter. UV rays can penetrate through cloud. Wearing it daily means you are protected when the sun unexpectedly makes an appearance. Winter sunshine with snow glare is especially damaging.
4. Check Your Clothing
Be careful what you wear. Cold-weather material (for example wool) can aggravate dry winter skin. Stay comfortable with your clothing choices. Cashmere is warm AND gentle on the skin. Otherwise layer up with breathable fabrics like cotton or silk. Synthetic fibres – like nylon and polyester – can irritate skin because they trap heat and moisture.
5. Add More Moisture
Add more moisture to your routine – and moisturise damp skin (it absorbs more). Drink lots of water and if you suffer from dryness or flakes, invest in a humidifier for your home. Keep it running through winter – especially close to your face and during your sleep. A humidifier can help to keep skin soft and moisturised. Artificial heat makes indoor air very dry, while arctic conditions outside also cause dry air. The alternating of dry hot air and cold air can strip skin of its natural oils. Your outermost layer of skin (the natural barrier) needs to be hydrated enough to do its job properly.
6. Introduce Dry Brushing
Introduce dry brushing. This exfoliates dry winter skin, increases blood flow circulation and promotes lymph flow to detoxify the skin. Brush upwards or in circular movements for best results. Dry brushing helps to unclog pores and primes your skin for fresh new skin cells. Try to do it daily before you shower – work from the feet up.
Keep skin happy and hydrated this winter with our 6 tips for ultimate body winter skincare.
