How is your skin feeling? Does it feel dry to you? It might be time to adjust your home skincare routine and focus on protecting your skin for winter. There is decreased humidity in the air and central heating doesn't help with keeping the skin hydrated.
First I want to mention, your skin type doesn't change even though the temperature or humidity has changed. Many clients will comment that their skin is dry in winter and oily in the summer. In reality, this doesn't happen, your skin type doesn't change to dry in winter but instead can become dehydrated. Environmental factors such as decreased humidity, windy conditions, central heating can cause an increase in TEWL - trans epidermal water loss. TEWL is the evaporation of water from the deeper layers of the epidermis. Dry skin is a lack of oil (sebum) in the skin and dehydrated skin is the loss of water in the skin.
Here are some steps to protect your skin during this time:
Avoid hot water when cleansing your skin, be sure to always cleanse your skin in tepid water only. Cleansing balms can be a nice addition to your night cleanse as it will provide a good gentle deep cleanse. Using hot water will affect your skin barrier function and will cause more dehydration and inflammation.
Be sure you are protecting your skin with antioxidants and peptides to protect against free radical damage.
Don't forget your SPF! Yes, you must use sunscreen all 365 days of the year, SPF can really help to protect your skin barrier function. I know the temptation is to forego this step, especially when it's grey and rainy outside but this is such an important step to protecting your skin.
Exfoliate - a good exfoliator can help facilitate a normal cell turnover. It's important to not overdo this as it will then create added inflammation and TEWL.
Hydrate internally as well. Get your essential fats. Try incorporating omega 3 (anti-inflammatory), adding flax or chia seeds and sesame or coconut oil to your meals.
(photos via pinterest)
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