How to create a winter skin care routine

Do you stick to the same skin care regime all year round?

When you think about it, as the temperatures change, you don’t wear the same clothes that you do in summer. In winter you wear extra layers to protect yourself from the cooler air, and just like your body, your skin needs added protection too!

During the winter months, lower temperatures and cool winds can quickly lead to dehydrated and sensitive skin if you don’t make the necessary changes to your skin care regime.

Here’s how to tailor your summer skin routine to provide year-round protection and nourishment for your skin.

Yes, we do need to swap many of our summer products when winter comes but there are two exceptions to that rule: serums and sunscreen.   

An antioxidant serum (Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid) is perfect for year-round use. No matter what the climate is, our skin gets attacked by free radicals, causing the breakdown of collagen, sun spots,and premature fine lines. 

To prevent this damage, apply an antioxidant serum as your first layer in the morning, before layering on heavier products. 

And don’t forget the sunscreen! A daily dose of SPF 30 is essential in Australia and will keep your skin protected, even on cold, cloudy days

Product suggestion :- Artistry Advanced Vitamin C +HA 

(100% pure Vitamin C boosts the skin”s Antioxidant protection )

Bi- Action Hyaluronic Acid Blend helps the skin stay plump smooth flexible and hydrated

No matter how many serums and creams you apply, your dry skin will stay dry without some light exfoliation. Use a mild Glycolic Acid to gently peel off the dead skin.

Tailor your Retin-A usage to alternative days because whilst it is an advocate for fighting wrinkles, it is also a strong exfoliant that may cause dryness during winter.

Now that your skin is polished and buffed, serum moisturisers can really begin to penetrate and get to work.

Product suggestion :- Signature Selection Polishing Mask  

Takes skin from rough and flaky to smooth and refreshed

Natural cane sugar crystals gently buff away dead, dull skin cells and organic Black currant extract helps leave the skin feeling soft and nourished after every use.

One of the most important and commonly overlooked steps in the dry skin game is changing to a seriously hydrating moisturiser. 

Look for face creams, rather than lotions which are not as hydrating or as long lasting.

Avoid harsh cleansers

Be sure to get rid of any cleansers or face washes that contain drying ingredients, such as fragrances or additives. Instead, look for gentle cleansers that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils (which are needed to protect overall moisture) and ones that are formulated with ingredients such as chamomile or oatmeal.

Our Youth Extend Foaming cleanser is a great option that won’t strip skin of its natural oils, as it contains skin-conditioning agents, including the ARTISTRY Patented Oat Extract, for a smooth and radiant look

• Leaves skin feeling clean, moisturised and soft
• Dermatologically and Allergy tested

Every night before bed, commit to sticking to a routine that will ensure a healthy outcome in the morning. 

After you apply your face serum and moisturiser, apply a gentle eye cream to the under eyes and lids.

Because there is now a proven direct connection between your gut and your skin health,  increasing your daily intake of healthy fats may help with dry skin. Foods that contain these healthy fats (Omega 3) include fresh and tinned fish, especially those that are found in cold water (salmon, mackerel, sardines, cod, anchovies, trout and tuna), olive oil, nuts, linseeds, pumpkin, chia and hemp seeds.  

While that extra glass of full-bodied red wine may seem like a good idea – and it’s an antioxidant right 😉? – don’t overdo it with alcohol, caffeine, and coffee because these are all diuretics that will cause dehydration.

And it goes without saying, to keep your body and your skin hydrated, drink plenty of water all year round! If you prefer to drink something hot during the cooler months, hot water with freshly squeezed lemon and grated ginger is perfect.

If your skin feels very dry, a hydrating mask may be a good idea once a week at bedtime. 

Stay away from masks that contain charcoal or clay products and look for products that contain hyaluronic acid.

Product suggestion :- Signature Hydrating Mask

Gives dry, tight or uncomfortable skin mega moisture infusion

Contains antioxidant – rich organic source Green tea extract

The soft, smooth cream formula floats over the skin infusing deep and lasting moisture that lasts all day for a hydrated feeling.

While the heat from a morning or an evening shower may feel phenomenal on a chilly day, limit rinse time to five minutes or less and use warm rather than hot water, as this extensive heat  adds to surface dehydration of your skin. 

Instead of irritating soap bars or harsh body washes, use a creamy body wash and immediately follow up with a body moisturiser to prevent redness and dryness and eczema, both of which are common during this colder season. And don’t forget your hands and lips.