Winter is beginning to truly hit us with gusts of cold wind, blushed red cheeks, scarves that resemble blankets and seasonal coffees back at barista counters. Not only does it bring multi-coloured leaves and unpredictable weather with it, but many, many parties, pub nights and social gatherings. It also means either layers of caked on makeup night after night, dry skin or excessive breakouts. Sadly, the new year usually kicks off with one skin problem or another- so here is a few tips to maintain good skin all throughout the winter months.
1) Find a truly great moisturiser: Pharmacies are full of all sorts of creams and lotions, both for the face and for the body, so spend some time investing in good quality moisturisers. Facial skin takes more time and care, hence it’s a good idea to do some research before you splurge on a cream that might not even work for you. Read reviews before you buy, and remember that just because it has a high price tag, doesn’t mean that it’ll work for you. For body creams and lotions, start using one if you don’t already, and if you do, a good idea is to choose something richer in hydration.
2) Brush up on your skin routine: If there’s a time to look after your skin, it’s now. Don’t neglect taking off your makeup before bed or skipping washing or toning in the morning as it will leave the skin prone to the harsh weather and any rough fabric from scarves or coats.
3) Mask up: Facials are always a great treat for the skin, whether store bought or DIY. At home face masks clean out the skin, let it breathe and remove any dead skin cells. Clay masks are an excellent option in the wintertime, when the skin is more dry and prone to flaking. If you have oily to combination skin, treat yourself to a mask once every two weeks, together with using an exfoliator beforehand. If you’ve dry skin, stick to once a month.
Why not then use the cucumber slices to make yourself a lovely (slightly eye-flavoured) G&T.
4) Switch up your usual foundation: Choosing a more hydrating, dewy foundation will keep the skin even more moisturised and prevent the formation of dry patches. Ease up on the powder if you are prone to very dry skin, it’s really not necessary in the colder months. If you have normal or dry skin and use a primer, try to ditch it for a few days and see the results- mattifying priers can sometimes dry out the skin even more.
5) Drink up: Water is the easiest way to keep hydrated and keep skin beautiful. With the party season in full swing, remember that alcohol can dehydrate you. Keep a bottle of water with you at all times and sip- whether its hot chocolate or tea, every drop counts, so drink as much liquids as you can, especially water.
Nothing says ‘winter’ like snow, knitwear, and hot brown drinks.
Beautiful skin isn’t an overnight ordeal, it’s a craft that takes a long time. I find that I’m still learning about my skin, especially in the transition from adolescence to adulthood. In these cold months, skin can dry up and cause problems, so drink up your water and lather up on the moisturiser- your skin deserves it.
Gabija Gataveckaite