As much as we’d like to deny it, winter is usually accompanied by comfort foods combined with exposure to central heating and harsh weather, which can all take its toll on your complexion, leaving it looking dull and dry.
As seasons change, so do the needs of your skin – and by making a few tweaks, we can step into the new season with a brighter, healthier complexion.
Scrub to renew
“The skin – like all our organs – slows down during winter as the body conserves energy,” explains facialist Emma Hardie, who treats celebrities Sophie Dahl and Fearne Cotton. “The decrease in cell renewal can give the complexion a rough, lifeless appearance.”
Exfoliation will bring skin back to life. Dermatologists swear by alpha or beta hydroxy-acids – such as glycolic and salicylic acid – which dissolve dead cells and make way for the fresher skin beneath.
Layer it on
As the temperature decreases, your skin’s requirements differ. “During the winter, skin needs lipid-rich creams as a barrier against the elements,” says consultant dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams.
“As the weather cools, the skin produces less oil, so the need for heavy creams is increased. Use a rich moisturiser to provide extra nourishment.”
Even in winter, be sure to use protection to shield the skin from ageing and burning UV rays. Select a day cream with an SPF of at least 30.
Eliminate Toxins
During winter, our pasty complexions aren’t just down to lack of sunlight. Sluggish circulation caused by blood vessels constricting in the cold could also be a culprit.
Any type of exercise can boost skin vitality by stimulating blood flow, which provides oxygen to the cells and helps eliminate inflammation-causing toxins.
Regular facial massage can also work wonders. “Massaging the face for a few minutes a day can instantly reduce puffiness and banish dullness,” says facial reflexologist Paolo Lai, of Neville Hair and Beauty in London.
“Using your middle and index finger, firmly massage the skin and underlying muscles in circles. Work upwards and outwards, starting at the chin and moving towards the forehead,” advises Lai.
Do this for three minutes twice a day, using facial oil.
Dodge sugar and stodge
During the winter months, we reach for starchy foods to supplement decreased production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. “Tucking into pasta or biscuits can give us a satisfying temporary serotonin boost,” explains nutritionist Susie Perry Debice, from The Food Doctor Nutrition Clinic on Harley Street.
Help your skin by ditching stodgy, sugar-heavy comfort food and increasing your intake of nutrient-rich options that can revitalise your skin, immune system and energy levels.
Perry Debice advises shopping for seasonal winter vegetables.
“Stock up on vitamin C-rich greens to boost the formation of fresh collagen.” She says.
Eat antioxidant-packed berries and opt for the omega-3 fats found in salmon and sardines to hydrate the skin from within. You can also try miso soup and seaweed – they are full of face-brightening enzymes.
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