4 Things You Should Be Doing to Your Skin to Protect It in Winter

As the seasons change and the temperatures drop, so too does your skin's resilience. The harsh combination of biting winds outside and dry, central heating indoors can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving it feeling tight and flaky and looking dull. While it’s tempting to hibernate, your skin needs a little extra love to get through the colder months. Here are four essential steps you should be taking to protect and nourish your skin this winter.

Double Down on Hydration (and Consider a Hydrafacial)

Hydration is the single most important factor for winter skin health. The cold air holds less moisture, and indoor heating saps the water right out of your skin, leading to a compromised skin barrier. This is the time to switch out your lightweight summer moisturiser for a richer, more occlusive cream that locks in moisture. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter. If you are unsure, ask your skin therapist or follow a couple on Instagram, including The Clinic Cheshire, which shares loads of information weekly on how to look after your skin from home.

For an extra boost, consider a professional treatment like a HydraFacial by an asethetics in Cheshire that  specialised to offer such a treatment. This isn't just a spa indulgence; it's a powerful tool for winter skin survival. The treatment cleanses, exfoliates, and extracts impurities while simultaneously infusing the skin with intense hydrating serums such as hyaluronic acid and can be tailored with peptides for your skin type and/or conditions. It's a non-invasive way to get a deep clean and a surge of moisture, leaving your skin plump, dewy, and perfectly prepped to handle the winter elements. It's like giving your skin a big, refreshing drink of water just when it needs it most.

Don’t Ditch the SPF

This might seem counterintuitive. The sun isn't out, so why bother with SPF? Unfortunately, UV rays are still very much a threat, even on a cloudy, grey winter day. UVA rays, which are the primary cause of premature ageing, can penetrate clouds and even glass. Snow can also reflect up to 80% of the sun’s UV light, so if you’re planning a trip to a snowy destination, it's doubly important. If you ever wondered how people on ski trips end up with a burnt nose, you now know why.

So, continue to apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every single morning, regardless of the weather. Make it a non-negotiable part of your routine, just like brushing your teeth. Your future self will thank you for it, as consistent SPF use is one of the most effective ways to prevent sun damage, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.

Be Mindful of Hot Showers and Baths

There's nothing more inviting on a freezing day than a long, hot shower or bath. While it might feel good in the moment, that scalding water is actually stripping your skin of its natural oils, leaving it even more susceptible to dryness and irritation. The high temperature can cause inflammation and lead to that tight, itchy feeling.

Instead, opt for lukewarm water. A short, warm shower will cleanse your skin without stripping it of essential lipids. After you get out, pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing, and immediately apply your moisturiser to damp skin to lock in the remaining moisture. This simple change can make a huge difference in the overall comfort and health of your skin.

Introduce a Vitamin C Serum to Your Routine

Winter often leaves our skin looking a little lacklustre. A Vitamin C serum is your secret weapon for bringing back that healthy glow. This powerful antioxidant helps to brighten the skin, fade dark spots, and protect against environmental damage. By neutralising free radicals, it helps to repair the skin and prevent further damage caused by pollution and other stressors.

Adding a Vitamin C serum to your morning routine, right after cleansing and before your moisturiser and SPF, will help to boost collagen production and improve your skin’s overall radiance. Not only will it help to protect your skin, but it will also give you that vibrant, healthy look that often goes missing during the winter months.