How to Look After Our Skin in Winter

We are slowly heading towards winter. The days are getting colder, and the nights are getting longer. Our bodies crave warm, cosy blankets and a good cup of tea.

 

During the cold winter months, our skin needs special care. When we move from the cold outdoors into the overheated indoors, the blood vessels in our skin change rapidly in response to the changing temperatures, leading to redness. The changing environment also absorbs moisture from our skin. Low temperatures are accompanied by a dry climate created by the reduced humidity outside and the heating inside. This temperature change can cause irritation and inflammation. The result is poorer skin hydration and dry skin.

 

To protect our skin from the environment, we must keep it moist and prevent skin water loss (TEWL). Transepidermal water loss means that the water in our skin evaporates when exposed to the elements, dehydrating it. This is where ingredients such as carriers, oils and kinds of butter can help. These unusual natural ingredients form a protective barrier on your skin without clogging your pores. This way, your skin is protected, and you can breathe simultaneously.

 

Our skin is responsible for removing waste, but products containing or derived from oils can clog the skin's pores and make it difficult to expel toxins. Natural oils are linked to the body's chemistry. Many of them are rich in antioxidants which help to combat the harmful effects of free radicals caused by pollution and UV rays. Other oils are known for their healing and skin-renewing properties.

 

Carrier oils prevent skin dryness and nourish the skin during the cold winter months. Many carrier oils mimic sebum, the skin's natural moisturiser. Essential fatty acids are necessary for dry skin, especially for conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Fatty acids support the skin's natural pH or acidic mantle, protecting the skin and body from harmful bacteria. The cutting cover is vital to our health as it is the first line of defence. A diet rich in omega three and omega six essential fatty acids and carrier oils on the skin will significantly nourish and improve the appearance of the skin. Please remember to store these products in the mini cosmetic fridge after each use.

 

The body butter also helps keep our skin healthy and hydrated during cold winter. "Butter" is a hard vegetable fat of natural origin, taken from the kernels or nuts of plants, and is solid at room temperature. These kinds of butter are not related to dairy products. They are simply similar in texture.

 

I like essential oils. Essential oils are plant compounds that have therapeutic properties. Pure essential oils contain active ingredients in harmony with your body's natural balance. However, essential oils are also a substance that can quickly evaporate due to environmental influences, so it is best to store them in your skincare fridge.

 

Essential oils have a range of healing properties and can target everything from anxiety to dry skin.

 

When formulated in skin care products, essential oils, carrier oils and body butter work together to help heal dry and cracked skin.

 

When I tried making my first product using carrier oils and butter, I couldn't believe the results! Finally! Skin doesn't dry out, especially after a bath, shower or exfoliation. Even after waxing, my skin recovers much faster with the help of body oils.

 

As I have said many times, the best skincare products in the world will only help if you live a healthy lifestyle. Healthy skin starts from within. Keeping your body hydrated, eating the right foods, and low-stress levels will help you maintain healthy skin during winter.

 

Carbonated drinks and many juices contain added sugar. Sugar breaks down the collagen connections in our skin. Collagen is responsible for keeping our skin soft and firm. When it is damaged, we develop signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and sagging. I rarely take a sip of soda and can't remember the last time I had a 'juice'. My water bottle is always with me. I drink a smoothie and 3-4 cups of herbal tea daily. Healthy hot and cold beverages are suitable for my skin and overall health.

 

Nutrition and how it reflects on my skin is always an exciting topic for me. I know from experience that if I eat processed foods, my skin suffers, and if I eat healthy foods, my skin glows.

 

Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals. For example, green vegetables are rich in vitamin C, B vitamins, folic acid, fibre and minerals.

 

Fruits can help nourish your skin. Regular consumption of fresh fruit provides vitamins C and E, zinc, and folic acid. These nutrients improve the condition of your skin by rejuvenating damaged skin cells and making your skin firm and smooth.

 

My diet includes nuts and seeds. Nuts and seeds are a good source of protein, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins and minerals.

 

When it comes to good skin, stress is the enemy. It disrupts the natural balance of our skin and breaks down collagen, which accelerates ageing.

 

Finding ways to manage stress effectively can go a long way to helping you keep your skin looking radiant. Good exercise will release endorphins and lower the stress hormone cortisol.

 

You can also try a meditation or yoga routine, walks in nature, crafting and anything that keeps you busy positively and creatively and makes you happy.

 

I like to walk barefoot in the grass and breathe deeply. Nature is the perfect remedy for stress relief.

 

Everything I have said so far is based on my knowledge and experience. Follow your intuition and do what works best for you.