Winter skincare

So, with the onset of Winter, another year has (almost) come and gone again. It's a slight reminder that we (quite possibly) have one or two more wrinkles, perhaps a few aches that we didn't have last year and a need to be careful with our skin care routine.

Winter skin care should be richer, protective and moisturising to help strengthen the skin against the harsh elements, lower humidity and the warm drying effects of our central heating systems. This is the one season when we all need a good moisturiser. Even those with oily skin should use at least a light formula. Those with dry or damaged skins fair worst as the cold weather can aggravate symptoms. Dryness is worse where the skin’s oil glands are weakest. Cheeks, arms and legs have less sebaceous oil glands and the hands are thinner than in other places. All these areas need extra protection and care.

To stay soft, and protected all Winter, you should:

• Always moisturise dry skin after bathing or showering. Pay attention to elbows, knees and feet;
• Take care of your hands. The skin here is thinner, so after washing, always dry thoroughly and use a good rich hand cream or balm. Wearing gloves in the cold weather will help further protect against dryness;
• Wear more layers of clothing outdoors. Layering clothes keeps you warmer as they form air pockets in between each layer;
• Exfoliate the skin regularly to get rid of dead cells and reveal a healthy new vigour and sheen. It also prepares your skin for deep treatments;
• Always moisturise face and neck with a treatment suited for your skin type and condition before you step out into the cold;
• Protect the lips from drying and chapping. This is important as they do not have any sebaceous glands (so are not moisturised). Apply a natural vegetable oil based balm (not petroleum based as this will make your need for moisturising greater);
• Use a weekly hot oil conditioning treatment on the hair to help restore moisture, shine and lustre;
• Practise the art of massaging to help with circulation, particularly in the feet and hands. Good circulation promotes a healthy glow, and massage helps tone the body, relax tense muscles and helps eliminate waste. Try almond oil scented with a few drops of cinnamon and orange for a seasonal scent!

Try the simple honey and egg mask for a home made spa treat for the face and neck.