MUST-HAVE INGREDIENTS FOR A WINTER SKINCARE ROUTINE
We're well into the winter months, and the harsh weather is affecting not only our moods, but also our skin. The biting winds outside, the low humidity in heated rooms indoors all contribute to our skin drying out, dulling its glow and, in the worst cases, becoming sensitive and peeling.
How to protect your skin from the cold weather, or how to create a super winterised and personalised skincare routine?
No need to worry, we don't need to replace all the products on our bathroom vanity shelves, just incorporate a few ingredients and be more conscious of our skincare routine!
Dry, tight skin, also known as xerosis (xerosis is the medical name for dry skin, a Greek word; 'xero' means dry and 'osis' means disease) is one of the most common skin problems during the winter months. Our skin is a dynamic organ, constantly in contact with the outside environment, so in winter the cold and dry air regularly 'sucks' moisture from the skin. As the temperature drops, redness increases, so the tendency to sensitivity comes to the fore, and flare-ups of rosacea are a common symptom.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, look for cosmetics that contain any of the following ingredients!
1. Ceramides and lipids (squalane)
Ceramides are not considered a top active substance, but they are very important fatty molecules, lipids, which are produced by the skin itself. Unfortunately, as the skin's production of ceramides decreases over the years, they need to be replenished, especially in winter, to support the skin's defences.This means replacing lighter, gel-textured moisturisers with day creams containing ceramides and lipids to nourish the skin, repair damaged skin barrier and slow down unwanted water loss. Squalane, another valuable natural lipid, can also be a good choice to boost skin elasticity and resistance. It absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feeling.
2. Hialuronic acid
This important constituent of tissue is an excellent moisturiser, able to bind thousands of times its own mass in the form of moisture, making it extremely hydrating. To relieve skin dryness, it is essential to include a good quality moisturising serum in your routine. A good quality, concentrated hyaluronic acid serum can restore lost moisture to the complexion, providing immediate and long-lasting hydration regardless of time of day or age.
3. Niacinamide (vitamin B3)
This trendy ingredient can't be neglected in winter either, because apart from being an excellent stimulator of the skin's natural collagen production, it fades pigmentation spots and helps normalise sebum production. But what few people know about it is that it has a skin barrier-strengthening effect, so it stimulates ceramide synthesis, making the skin softer and more resistant.
After a hot shower, don't miss the body care!
As well as facial care, take time to moisturise your body: a body lotion rich in precious ingredients will nourish, regenerate and hydrate your skin and feel really good after a hot shower.
Not only in summer, but also in winter with your favourite sunscreen!
The harmful rays of the winter sun and the reflection of snow can still damage your skin. Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 30 to the face and back of the hands about 30 minutes before, and reapply if necessary!
In addition to the above factors, there are many other reasons for dry and sensitive skin - over-use of cleansers, loss of lipids with age, dehydration, poor diet - but in winter, it's worth taking these tips to heart!
