How to Achieve a Good Winter Skin Care Routine

by Joanna Steele-Perkins

During the winter months, our skin needs special attention to prevent it becoming dry, flaky and sore. Although a good skincare regime should be implimented all the year round, some slight adaptations may be needed in the winter to keep the skin moisturised.

Our skin is the largest organ in our bodies and is partially responsible for ridding the body of toxins. This is why spots and blemishes appear, when our skin is working hard at eliminating these toxins. Anything we put in our bodies affects our skin. Smoking, sunlight, pollution, alcohol and a poor diet all contribute to damaging the skin.

A sudden drop in temperature can play havoc with our skin, making it dry and flaky and sometimes even sore. A twice daily skin care routine needs to be established with the addition of a weekly "home spa" treatment.

If you use a liquid soap cleanser, it may be better to switch to a cream cleanser specifically designed for your skin type. Liquid cleansers use water which can have a drying effect. A cream cleanser removed with damp cotton wool will be kinder to your skin.

A good quality toner is important, but try to avoid alcohol based astringents as these will be very drying. Again there are many different types of toner on the market, so choose one that is suitable for your skin type.

You may need to change your moisturizer in the winter. Moisturizers work by protecting the skin from natural moisture loss, which can be increased by cold or windy weather. Even if your skin isn't usually dry, a moisturizer specifically made for dry skin may be beneficial.

Once a week, a face mask will aid the body's natural detoxification but again make sure that the mask is not astringent and is aimed at moisturizing rather than deep cleansing. These types of face masks tend to stay soft and are glycerine based.

Many women think they only need protection from the sun in the summer but although the sun's rays may be weaker, we still need to protect our skin from sun damage. A SPF of 15 should be applied in the winter. Some moisturizers and foundations have a "built in" sun protection factor, so if you lead a busy life, this could be your best option.

As our skin ages, it tends to be dryer so if you are in your forties or above this advice is particularly pertinent.

Many women spend time on the skin on their faces but neglect their hands. Although the skin on our hands is less delicate than on our faces, hands are exposed to the elements and can become very dry from constant hand washing. Use a good hand cream regularly and wear gloves when outside for extra protection.

About Author
Joanna Steele-Perkins is a senior Image Consultant with Colour Me Beautiful. Based in Taunton, Somerset, she is a regular contributor to magazines and newspapers. She offers advice on all aspects of personal image and her services include colour analysis , style consultations, make-up lessons, bridal advice, personal shopping and Image for Men.

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