The cold winter weather can leave our complexion feeling dry and dull, especially if you’re not following a consistent skincare routine. From essential nutrients to lifestyle changes, here are our top tips for rescuing dry skin.
1. Moisturise
It’s important to moisturise the skin all over your body, not just your face. Use an ointment or cream rather than a lotion and look out for hydrating ingredients including shea butter or petrolatum. Don’t forget to use a lip balm to lock in lip moisture and prevent chapping, especially if you’re going out in cold weather.
2. Prevent Sensitivity
Sensitive skin is characterised by irritation and redness which can made worse by dryness. If you struggle with sensitivity flare ups, only use products which are hypoallergenic and dye and fragrance free.
The way you wash your skin is important too. Hot water can remove your skin’s natural oils so try to avoid long hot baths or showers. Afterwards, pat your skin dry with a soft, clean towel and moisturise almost immediately to avoid any access moisture evaporating off the skin’s surface. 1
3. Focus On Nutrition
Beautiful skin starts from within, so you need to nourish your complexion from the inside with a healthy, balanced diet. Here are the nutrients which are especially important for skin health:
Vitamin C is found naturally in both the epidermis and the dermis, the outer and inner layers of skin. This nutrient plays a key role in the maintenance of a healthy complexion as well as the formation of collagen in the skin. (2) A study in 2017 concluded that vitamin C supplements can support the skin’s barrier function and help to maintain water retention, suggesting that this vitamin is also important for preventing dry skin. 3
