Because of dry temperatures and city pollution, winter is a tough time for the skin. Cold weather means humidity levels are low, which increases the chances of the skin losing moisture, causing it to become tight, flaky, and dry. Additionally, harm from pollution inflames the skin, reducing its ability to function.
Before winter dries out your skin, start preparing!
But this does not mean you need a detailed 10-step routine to care for your skin. Here are 5 ways to prepare your skin for winter pollution and dryness. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests including sunscreen with SPF 30 or above in the daily skincare routine.
Therefore, if winter brings extreme dryness, you may need to switch from a lotion-based to a cream-based moisturiser.
Using a moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp is said to lock in extra moisture. A better strategy is to use products that help keep your barrier intact, use gentle cleansing methods, moisturise the skin, and wear sunscreen every day. The primary aim of winter skincare should be to protect the skin barrier, rather than just using many new products. Cold weather and low humidity can lead to moisture loss, whereas pollution may cause skin barrier dysfunction and oxidative stress. It’s better to switch to a mild and fragrance-free cleanser and avoid overusing strong products that give you that overly squeaky-clean feel. If your skin is already dry or sensitive, be careful with excessive exfoliation. You can start trying moisuturisers with ceramides and hyaluronic acid or other emollients, which will help keep your skin hydrated. When to apply the moisturiser is very important. For example, after cleansing, pat the skin dry with a towel but do not let it become fully dry before applying the moisturiser. Dermatologists recommend applying moisturiser at least a couple of times during the day, especially in dry conditions. Pollution can create free radicals and oxidative stress within the skin. Studies have linked particle exposure to skin inflammation, meaning your skin barrier is slowly breaking down. So, this is where antioxidants fit into the winter skincare routine. Typical ingredients in antioxidant formulations include vitamin C, vitamin E, and niacinamide. However, not all active ingredients work better. If the skin is dry, irritated, or sensitive, using multiple new serums all at once can make things difficult. Winter does not mean you need to take a break from your sunscreen. Understand that UV rays exist all year round. The importance of using sunscreen becomes especially relevant given research showing that exposure to pollution can lead to UV rays resulting in oxidative stress and skin ageing. Sunscreen is to be used as the last step of the morning routine and reapplied when necessary. Think of it as a must-have product for your winter skincare.
