10 ways to ward off dry winter skin

During the colder months the biting weather can take its toll on your skin, often causing it to become dry and flaky. And dealing it can be a real nuisance: it doesn’t exactly look pleasing, it feels uncomfortable and it can make applying make-up impossible. We’ve caught up with Éminence Organics skincare expert Natalie Pergar for her top-10 solutions for keeping flaky skin at bay.

1 Use the right moisturiser

Over the winter month, we need a moisturiser with more of a protective barrier. ‘Look for what aestheticians

call a third-generation moisturiser. These types of moisturisers contain two vital ingredients: a protective

barrier, called an occlusive, and a humectant, which draws in moisture from the outside air.’ Occlusive

ingredients are those such as jojoba and sunflower oils, while humectant ingredients include lactic acid and

honey.

2 Get a face cleanser that is gentle on skin 

It’s time to give those foamy, water-based cleansers a rest, at least until spring approaches. Astringent, oil

absorbing cleansers can be abrasive on skin so switch them for a more creamy or milk cleanser. Natalie says:

‘These types of cleansers help keep the skin hydrated and soft. If you’re not ready for a rich cleanser, look for

a denser, gel cleanser that won’t dry the skin.’ We love this Coconut Milk Cleanser.

3 Stick to night cream  

Natalie tells us that  in the winter it’s OK to use your night cream at night… and in the day. ‘Night creams help

guard the skin against transepidermal water loss. Having the heater on at night can draw moisture from the

skin, and a night cream will help your skin retain that moisture,’ says Natalie.

4 Treat yourself to the right type of face mask

Applying a face mask is a simple way of rejuvenating and refreshing the skin. It can make you feel transformed

in minutes but using one that’s too invasive, like a deep pore clearing mask, can be drying on skin. ‘Be sure to

use a mask that contains hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate the skin,’ says Natalie. For this she

recommends trying Éminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Masque

5 Apply SPF

Just because it’s colder outside doesn’t mean you aren’t at risk from the sun’s UV rays. ‘If you’re spending time

outdoors in a snowy climate, don’t let the chilly weather fool you into thinking sunscreen is optional,’ warns

Natalie. ‘Snow reflects sun rays back into the skin and often can magnify the strength of the sun.’ So

everybody, particularly those who are heading off on a skiing trip, should keep skin protected by layering SPF

over moisturiser. Alternatively, get a moisturiser with SPF already in it.

6 Add something extra to your skincare routine

‘Just as we add hats, scarves and gloves to our wardrobe staples in the winter season, it’s a good idea to add

in a balm, oil or hydrating exfoliant with lactic acid,’ says Natalie. For a replenishing face oil, she suggests

Facial Recovery Oil.

7 Visit a skincare expert

If in doubt, ask the experts. If your skin is becoming dry you might want some advice specific to your skin type

and some product recommendation. If you don’t regularly visit a dermatologist or beautician, you can seek

advice from a representative at the skincare counters in department stores such as Debenhams, John Lewis

and Selfridges.

8 Spend less time in the bath

We’re not suggesting you dedicate less time to keeping yourself squeaky clean, instead try not to spend as

long aimlessly lying in hot water or singing your heart out in the shower, unless you’re willing to make the water

a dash cooler.

9 Protect your extremities 

‘Pay extra attention to your hands and feet, where skin is naturally thinner and often exposed,’ say Natalie. Use

hand and foot cream regularly, and wear gloves and some nice snuggly socks when you’re outside.

10 Limit time sat in front of the fire

‘We know winter months are all about cosying up in front of the fire but unfortunately, while it might be making

us feel as snug as a bug in a rug, it can have a drying effect on the skin. Indoor heating can also give you

chapped lips and a dry throat so, where possible, opt for the insulation of a warm blanket.