We talk a lot at Chalmers Dale about winter skin problems, but fear not: That dreaded, dull and dry skin in winter is 100 per cent avoidable.
It all comes down to preparation. Getting your winter skin care regimen in order now will ensure your skin is strong enough to withstand the crazy winter weather.
Not sure where to start? We spoke to our product innovation leaders to find out just how the winter weather can impact our skin, and what we can do to minimize the effects...
How does winter affect our skin?
“Everyone notices a difference in their skin in winter, no matter how small”, due to a drop in heat and humidity, as well as the dietary changes and hotter showers that typically come with winter. Skin can be less oily, fine lines become more prominent and dry skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis more pronounced. Skin that is prone to redness or rosacea is also at risk of flaring up “when irritated by wind and colder temperatures, as well as indoor heaters”.
How to prepare your skin for the cold weather
Winter skin care needs vary from person to person, but as a general rule, always opt for “preferably organic and definitely natural” products. Ideally, these products should also be free of additives, colours, fragrances or preservatives.
Preparation for: Normal skin types
Those with a normal skin type “save the heavier moisturisers for the colder months,” and we suggest gradually easing into the change of season by switching to a cream. The gentler formula will help preserve your skin’s moisture barrier and prevent the onset of signs of dehydration later on, such as fine lines (particularly in the eye area), dark circles, scaliness and dry, flaking skin.
In addition to establishing a more nourishing cleansing and exfoliating routine, use a face mask once a week. But not just any mask – she suggests opting for a hydrating one with nourishing natural ingredients such as calendula and rose, as they will “help soothe redness, calm the skin and provide rejuvenating properties”; they’ll also work to prevent red, dry, dehydrated or flaky skin conditions.
Preparation for: Dry and sensitive skin types
In addition to using a creamy cleanser, gentle exfoliant and face mask, those who are prone to dry skin in winter should also start incorporating richer and more protective face creams for day and night, in order to prevent chapped or flaky skin later on. As far as ingredients go, the expert highly recommends jojoba oil, rosehip oil, cocoa butter and shea butter, as not only do they promote skin hydration, they also “afford more protection to the skin, preventing it from drying out in the cold weather or heated rooms”. Chamomile is also a winning ingredient – “Aromatherapists often prescribe it when there is a dry, sensitive skin condition present,”
Those with a drier skin type should also consider swapping their body lotion for a body butter, for an extra moisture boost.
Preparation for: Oily and break-out prone skin types
When it comes to cleansing, those with oily skin may prefer to stick to a foaming cleanser to help prevent breakouts. However, you may benefit from incorporating a facial oil into your routine. “This will send a message to your skin that it is receiving the nutrients it needs, and will often result in a balancing of oil flow”. Furthermore, “Sticking to a lighter lotion and adding the oil to your routine separately will allow you to control how much oil is going into your skin and adjust accordingly,”.
We recommend looking for a facial oil that is high in essential fatty acids, such as Pure Australian Jojoba Oil. It’s an Australian Certified Organic jojoba oil that is cold pressed from high quality jojoba seeds sourced from Australia, for maximum skin benefit. Apply “small amounts before your moisturiser in the morning, or to clean skin at night” and “pressing it into skin that has been spritzed with a natural mist or flora water to promote maximum absorption.”
Preparation for: All skin types
While different complexions will benefit from tailored skin care in the lead-up to the cold weather, everyone can benefit from a few simple diet and lifestyle changes. As winter approaches, increasing your intake of healthy fats and complex carbohydrates to nurture our digestive systems (which have a big influence on our skin’s health) and nourish our skin from the inside out.
Maintaining good hydration is also paramount. “If you are finding it hard to drink as much water as you need to keep hydrated, try warm herbal teas such as ginseng, chamomile, peppermint or green tea, which are all hydrating and rejuvenating for the skin,”.
Are you looking to boost your skins health this winter?
Shop the Chalmers Dale JOJOBA Range!
