The cold winter temperatures outside, with sudden changes to warm central heating inside, can wreak havoc on our skin. Not to mention, icy winds blowing throughout winter, constant rain, and limited sunshine…. It’s no wonder that our skin can suffer throughout the winter months. However, a few small changes can help to protect your skin against winter damage.
Why should I change my skincare for winter?
Generally, skin becomes drier during the winter months – cold windy conditions can dry out your skin, as can central heating. Both these conditions have lower levels of humidity, which means moisture levels in the air are reduced. This leads to skin feeling (and looking) dry. Skincare regimes during winter need to contain more hydrating products than at other times of the year.
Skincare Additions For Winter
Add Hydration with Hyaluronic Acid
The outermost layer of skin is the epidermis, which is predominately composed of hyaluronic acid. Hydration levels of the epidermis depend on the levels of hyaluronic acid in deeper levels of the skin (the dermis). Supplementation with hyaluronic acid may help to boost moisture levels in all layers of the skin.
Help To Support The Extra-Cellular Matrix With Collagen
Collagen forms part of the extra-cellular matrix; aka, the layers of cells that provide structure and support to the skin. Reduced levels of collage lead to skin looking less bouncy and smooth. Supplementation with collagen has been shown to rejuvenate the appearance of skin and support skin health.
Support Skin Health From The Inside Out With Vitamin D
Vitamin D is often linked to immunity. However, it plays a vital role in the cell life cycle. Vitamin D can help to prevent damage caused by UV light, by removing the dead cells. Vitamin D also helps to reduce inflammation and support the immune system. A healthy immune system is also linked to better skin.
Fight Breakouts With Zinc
Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties and contributes towards the healing process of the skin. Zinc is often used in treating acne, as it speeds up the rate of wound healing – in this case, speeding up the rate of blemish resolution. Zinc supplementation may help to fight winter damage, and speed up skin repair.
Protect Against Inflammation With Vitamin E
Free radicals are molecules within the body. They cause oxidative stress and subsequent inflammation. Vitamin E prevents the production of these free radicals. Vitamin E also helps to prevent the breakdown of the fatty layers within the skin, which helps to maintain skin structure.
Not sure where to start with your winter skincare regime? Myvitamin beauty box has your skincare needs covered. Containing Myvitamin coconut & collagen capsules, hyaluronic acid supplements, and Myvitamin hair, skin and nails gummies, this beauty box contains all your winter supplement needs:
Winter Skincare Tips
- Cleansing: Choose a milk-based cleanser for maximum moisture; these cleansers are generally gentler than foaming cleansers and tend not to draw moisture out of the skin. Furthermore, milk-based cleansers often contain ingredients that provide additional moisture to the skin. These types of cleansers are usually suitable for sensitive skin
- Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation helps to remove the top layer of skin – this layer often contains dead cells, which can contribute towards skin looking dry and dull. Removing this layer not only makes the skin look brighter but also allows moisturisers and serums to penetrate the skin. For most skin, exfoliation no more than 2-3 times per week will provide skin benefits without over-drying or irritating the skin.
- Serums: Hyaluronic Acid or vitamin E-containing serums are best for dry skin. Hyaluronic acid will directly add moisture, as it becomes trapped in the top layers of the skin. Vitamin E has anti-inflammatory properties that are also used to help fight the signs of ageing.
- Moisturise: Using a thicker night cream will help to lock in more moisture whilst sleeping. ‘Occlusive’ moisturisers sit over the top layer of skin, trapping moisture underneath. These types of moisturisers tend to contain ingredients such as shea butter, cocoa butter, or paraffin. Occlusive moisturisers can be a trigger for acne-prone skin – if this is the case, try applying to only dry areas and use regular moisturiser for the rest of the face.
- SPF: Despite days being shorter and less sunny, it is still important to include SPF as part of a daily skincare routine. SPF helps to provide protection from UV damage, and pollution and helps to protect against signs of ageing. You may not need additional SPF during the winter if your cosmetics already contain SPF. However, for those that are very active or work outdoors, extra SPF is recommended.
Take Home Message
In summary, your skin is likely to require a bit more care during the winter. The cold weather, warm central heating and the contrast between can all dry out skin, so make sure to include supplements and topical products that contain ingredients that will help to boost moisture levels within the skin.
Skincare (myvitamins.com)FAQ’s
Should your skincare routine change with the seasons?
Our skin has different requirements throughout the year; for example, during the summer months, SPF protection becomes more important due to higher levels of sun exposure. During the winter months, there needs to be a greater focus on hydrating skin products.
Should skincare change in winter?
Skincare should aim to increase moisture levels in the skin. This is needed to combat the drying winter conditions and central heating. Try switching your usual skincare products to products that are more moisturising, and supplement appropriately.
Why is winter skincare important?
Lack of correct skincare can lead to skin dryness and peeling, increased congestion within the skin (causing spots and blemishes), and general dullness. Having a separate winter skincare routine will help to fight these issues.
What is the best skincare routine for winter?
The best skincare routine for winter is one that contains highly moisturising products. Vitamin D and E can both be useful, as can hyaluronic serums and supplements. Anything that helps to support skin healing and trap moisture within the skin will help your skin to stay healthy throughout winter.
How can I take care of my skin in winter?
Finding the right combination of supplements and skincare products that work best for you is the first step towards taking care of your skin this winter. The ultimate goal is to keep your skin moisturised.
How can I make my skin glow in winter?
Collagen is responsible for the elasticity of skin - higher levels of collagen are associated with youthful-looking skin. Hyaluronic acid will help to maintain moisture levels within the outer and middle layers of the skin. Changing cleansing products is also likely to help prevent skin from drying out.
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