Winter time means cold days, even colder nights and sometimes even colder trips to the snow. The harsh winter wind and cool air can take a toll on your skin, often leading to dryness and sensitivity. This might show up as flaky skin, soreness and red blotchy patches. It might be time to step out of your usual skincare regime and tackle winter skin sensitivity head on!
Sensitisation
Sensitisation is different from sensitivity because it is caused by factors other than genetics. It may only last a short period of time or be ongoing; it may only happen to you in winter, or it might be all year round.
Sensitisation is caused by environmental and lifestyle factors. In winter the weather and environment can take their toll. It isn’t just the cold, dry wind that causes environmental sensitisation: long hot showers, dry air-conditioning and heaters can cause the face to become inflamed.
Signs and symptoms of sensitised skin include:
- Dryness
- Feeling of tightness
- Burning
- Itching
- Tenderness
- Redness
Gently Cleanse
Your cleanser should target dryness and/or skin sensitivity, and be formulated without harsh surfactants that can strip away skin oils. For skin that just gets dry over winter, try the Dermalogica Essential Cleansing Solution. If your skin is sensitised consider Dermalogica’s UltraCalming Cleanser.
Avoid Exfoliation
Skin that is over-sensitised should not be exfoliated. It can be tempting to want to scrub away the dryness, but it will just lead to further and worse sensitisation.
Moisturise
Winter is the time that people tend to step up the heaviness of their moisturiser. Emollient based moisturisers are the go to during winter such as the Skin Smoothing Cream and Intensive Moisture Balance from Dermalogica.
Face oils are trending right now in skin care and many people want to include an oil in their winter skincare routine. Try the Overnight Repair Serum from Dermalogica for an overnight hydration boost, or the Facial Treatment Oil from Sukin.
Oily and acne-prone skin gets irritated in winter too. If you have acne prone skin you should avoid face oils and emollient based moisturisers. They can be too heavy and congest your skin even further. Instead opt for hydration boosters such as the Skin Hydrating Booster from Dermalogica or Ego QV Face Rescue Gel.
SPF
Yes, you can still get sun damage during winter! Use a broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day and outdoor activities. If your skin is sensitive, opt for a physical sunscreen with titanium and zinc oxide (these are usually labelled with ‘Sensitive’). Dermalogica have a range of sunscreens to suit your needs from their UltraCalming range.
Is winter skin bothering you? For skin care solutions tailored to your unique skin type, why not phone us today for a free skin assessment using Dermalogica Facemapping or contact your local doctor who will arrange for you to see a dermatologist. Contact us today!
