Winter can be tough on everyone, but if you suffer with sensitive skin, it’s even worse. With cold temperatures and biting winds outdoors, plus warm air indoors, you’ve got a recipe for dry, irritated skin.
That’s why it’s so important to take care of your complexion and tailor your skincare routine to counteract the effects of the cold months.
Lisa-de-la-Plain, professional beauty therapist and co-founder of Beauty Flash, says that by choosing the right products and avoiding certain ingredients, you can ensure your skin is healthy and hydrated.
How to fight sensitive skin in cold weather
Here, she offers six tips for dealing with sensitive skin in winter.
1. Cleanse gently
“The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing, and it’s worth switching up your cleanser in winter, to avoid stripping your skin of much-needed moisture.
“Avoid products containing soap and fragrance, and switch to a gentle cleanser such as Dermalogica PreCleanse Balm (Amazon).
“The balm-to-oil formula melts through layers of make-up, sunscreen and pollutants, without disturbing the skin’s barrier, for an effective yet nourishing cleanse.”
2. Layer up to quench dryness
“We know the importance of moisturising year-round, but sensitive skin needs a little more TLC during the winter months.
“Try layering hydrating products like Decleor Antidote Serum with hyaluronic acid (Amazon), to restore your glow and protect against the harsh elements.
“A serum is an easy way to boost your skincare routine, just apply before your regular moisturiser and instantly experience plumper, softer skin.”
3. Buff your body
“It’s not just the skin on your face which suffers in winter. Give your body an extra treat to slough away dryness.
“Dermalogica Thermafoliant Body Scrub (Amazon) contains bio-lipids to strengthen the skin barrier, while dual-acting Indian bamboo stem and lactic acid dissolve dead skin cells.
“Other neglected areas include your lips and hands. Carry around travel-sized products like Medik8 Hand and Nail Cream (Amazon) for the recommended five applications a day.
“Avoid products with fragrance and flavourings, commonly found in lip balms, that can dry your pout out further.”
4. Soothe with a sheet mask
“Sheet masks are a great quick fix for dry skin. They work by helping the skin absorb a higher concentration of ingredients, which are instantly plumping and hydrating – great to use before a special night out.
“Why not try a mask enriched with minerals and hyaluronic acid, like the Medik8 Ultimate Recovery Bio-Cellulose Mask (Amazon)? It rejuvenates the skin leaving it supple, dewy and refreshed.”
5. Dial down the heat
“Hot showers are a common source of skin sensitivity. Although it can be tempting to crank up the heat on a cold winters’ day, you should use a lukewarm setting, as higher temperatures strip away the skin’s surface oils.
“Afterwards, indulge your body with Dermalogica’s Phyto Replenish Body Oil (Amazon), to complete your all-over winter skincare routine.
“For a restorative and relaxing experience, this oil is rich in skin-replenishing ingredients.”
6. Choose clothing carefully
“Sensitive skin types should take care with their clothing in the cold, when we bundle up and layer clothes.
“Avoid fabrics with rough fibres, like wool and nylon, and instead go for soft organic cotton, bamboo or Tencel.
“Look to purchase hypo-allergenic detergents too, instead of products laden with fragrances, preservatives and dyes.
“Many people are sensitive to the chemicals found in artificial fragrances and dyes, so choose a natural option without these irritants, or even make your own detergent.”
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