This was originally written for and published on The Growing Up Guide by Molly.
If you’re like me, and you get dry, flaky skin in the Winter – fear not! I have some tips on how to minimise dryness.
Step 1
This isn’t just for the winter, but more of a dry skin tip. Make sure you’re drinking enough water!
When I worked for a skincare brand, I used to see customers who complained about their dry skin, and when I asked them if they drank enough water, they always sounded surprised, as if it had nothing to do with your skin.
I’m sure you’ve all heard of the effects that rubbish food can have on your skin. Eat a few greasy, fatty meals and your skin decides to make you ugly for a few days.
Your body does show on the outside what you put inside, and you can help dehydrated, dry skin out, by drinking plenty of water. Other ways to hydrate include eating foods such as celery, tomatoes, cauliflower or spinach.
Step 2
Use a gentle exfoliator once a week to get rid of any dead skin. A muslin cloth is a good gentle exfoliant, or try the Botanics exfoliator. It’s all natural and it smells gorgeous. This means your skin is totally clean before you put on any oils or creams.
Step 3
Probably not necessary if you’re under 18, but if your skin is really sore and dry, try a night cream.
Night oils are great for mature skin. I use the NUXE Night Cream, but I don’t use it every night because I don’t have enough money for that.
If you can’t find a night cream you like, just make sure you put on a good layer of your normal moisturiser.
Step 4
Make sure you’re not using products that dry out your skin. If you use a toner or a cleanser with salicylic acid in, or with alcohol, think about switching to something without these stringent ingredients. There are natural products out there that are far more gentle.
Step 5
Use moisturiser and SPF everyday! The biting winds can really make your skin sore during the cold months.
SPF should be worn all year round too; this one from the body shop is SPF 50 and you can wear it under your moisturiser.
The sun’s rays come through the clouds – yes, even in December.
Step 6
Bodycare: wear gloves to protect your hands from the cold, use a hand cream (Check out our fav hand creams here). Wear a scarf and hat too to protect the delicate skin on your chest.
If you’re really stuck on what to do, then head to a skincare counter and ask for their advice. Don’t feel pressurised into buying a whole set all at once, work out which product you need the most urgently and ask for samples before committing to the whole range.
What are your favourite winter products?
Love,
