Changing faces

How to adapt your skincare regime for the colder months

Winter is on the way and with it comes colder temperatures and harsh, windy weather. Our skin can suffer as a result, which is why it’s important to adapt your skincare routine as the seasons change. We spoke to a range of natural beauty experts to get their top tips.

Give your skin some nourishment

“Low temperatures mean low humidity which can be more dehydrating on the skin,” says Alexandra Hayes, beauty expert for Simone Thomas Wellness (simonethomaswellness.com). “We notice an increase in dryness, skin can become red and inflamed and there can be a change in texture. First of all you really need to keep your skin moisturised and one great way to do this is to use an oil at night to replenish and rehydrate your skin as you sleep. You can double up and use an oil on your body and face, followed by your moisturising cream for extra nourishment.”

Opt for natural and organic products

“The best way to care for your skin in winter is to use natural and organic products that are free from chemicals such as SLS and parabens,” says Ingrid Jamieson, marketing manager with Pravera (www.pravera.co.uk). “These ingredients dry out the skin and could cause an increase in sensitivity and irritation. Look for products that contain nourishing and protective plant-based ingredients such as aloe vera, shea butter and cocoa butter.”

Try some jojoba oil

“Bathing is itself hydrating for the skin,” says Julia Lawless, aromatherapy expert and managing director of Aqua Oleum (aqua-oleum.co.uk). “Take some time out to pamper yourself in winter by having warm aromatic baths to unwind. Moisturising while your skin is still damp after bathing is the best way to keep your skin hydrated. Jojoba oil is a fantastic all round hydrating agent, also for the hair.”

Don’t forget to wear SPF

Remember: SPF isn’t just for summer, it should be used in winter too. Wearing a natural and organic moisturiser that contains SPF will help to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging UVA and UVB rays. “A face cream with SPF 10 is adequate for use in the winter,” says Ingrid Jamieson. “But SPF 20 provides 90 per cent coverage for UV rays and is sufficient to protect the skin.” Ingrid recommends using a natural and organic sun cream containing zinc and titanium dioxide. “These are natural mineral sun protectors; they are kind and gentle on the skin and reflect the harmful rays from the sun,” she explains.

Top up your vitamin A stores

“Vitamin A supports collagen production along with keratin production,” says Rebecca Rodrigues, health coach and nutritionist at Noom, the psychology-backed behaviour change app. “Collagen is a structural protein found in the connective tissue, mainly responsible for joints and elasticity of the muscles and skin. Collagen consumption is important for everyone, especially as you get older since collagen can break down and it gets harder for the body to produce. Keratin is another structural protein, important for skin as well as hair and nails. Foods high in vitamin A include leafy greens; red, yellow and orange foods, and low-fat dairy products. Some of these would include spinach, kale, carrots, sweet potato, mango, salmon, bell peppers, tomatoes, cantaloupe, and squash. Other key nutrients include vitamin B, C, zinc, and essential fatty acids.”

Stock up on vitamin C

“Vitamin C can help to repair damaged skin cells and your skin’s natural regeneration process, which is important when the temperature drops,” says natural health expert Rick Hay (Dip Nutrition, Dip Botanical Medicine, Dip Teaching; www.rickhay.co.uk). “Low levels of vitamin C can cause your body to bruise easily and slow down the healing of scars and sores. Vitamin C increases healthy collagen levels in your skin, making it smoother and tighter - it boosts collagen synthesis.”

Support your skin – and your nails

“Research has shown that silica improves the elasticity and texture of the skin, and as a bonus may also reduce visible signs of ageing,” explains Rick Hay. “Silica is popular in the beauty field as it not only helps with skin health but provides benefits to both hair and nails. If you are looking for food sources, bananas and green beans have some of the highest amounts of silica.”

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