10 Winter Survival Tips
Winter weather in Christchurch is quite simply no fun for skin. Cold weather and low humidity levels result in dry air, which then steals moisture away from the skin every second of every day. Without immediate care, dry skin can lead to cracking and bleeding, and harsh winter wind makes the problem worse. Indoor heat further robs the air of moisture, as do hot showers or baths and harsh cleansers.
Additional moisture helps, but you need to do more to counteract these effects and keep skin looking youthful and smooth. To reduce chapping, redness, itching, and keep skin more healthy and comfortable this season, try these tips.
1. Wash in lukewarm water
Hot showers and baths always feel good in the winter, but when you can, particularly when just washing your face or hands, choose lukewarm water to avoid stripping as many oils away from the skin.
2. Moisturise immediately afterwards
Your skin needs more moisture during the winter. Applying moisturiser to damp skin helps seal moisture into the skin. Keep your moisturiser near the bathtub, shower, and every sink!
3. Choose Moisturiser Carefully
Some moisturises have petroleum-based ingredients that can actually further dry your skin in the winter months. Go for an oil based rather than water based solution. We recommend Environ and BeeBio at Embrayce so make sure to ask us what one is best for your skin.
4. Protect
Don't forget sunscreen! Even in winter, the sun can be just as damaging.
5. Hydrate
We tend to drink less water in the winter as we tend to turn to cocoa and tea. But your skin needs hydration from the inside out. A little warm water with lemon can be very refreshing and hydrating. Or eat food that's high in water content. Try melons, tomatoes, cucumbers and apple to help get that hydration.
6. Moisturise at night
Dryer areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees have thin skin and tend to lose moisture faster than other areas of the body. Consider slathering on a deep moisturizing cream at night. We recommend our Pure Fiji products at Embrayce not only will your skin be greatly improved but the fragrance will help you dream of a warm tropical island.
7. Exfoliate
We often forget to exfoliate in the winter, particularly on our hands. Make sure you exfoliate to help moisturise and hydrate the skin. We have a lot of options for you at Embrayce so when you're next in for a visit make sure to ask for a recommendation.
8. Avoid toxins, and irritants
If you have eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis your skin is more likely to flare up in the winter. Winter skin is more fragile, so avoid irritating fabrics, chemical laden detergents, and use mild cleansers and moisturisers designed for sensitive skin.
9. Change your cleanser
Cleansers can be extremely drying to your skin. Your skin will have different needs over the winter months to what it does in summer. Try rotating your usual cleanser with a more hydrating version that contains moisturising ingredients. Both BeeBio and Environ have gentle and hydrating cleansers that will not only clean and prepare your skin but also protect it.
10. Use DIY masques
Homemade hydrating masks can provide needed moisture in the winter months. Use natural moisturizing ingredients like honey, avocado, yogurt, olive and jojoba oils, almond oil, bananas, and aloe. Mix what you like together to create a cream or paste, and leave on skin for 10-30 minutes for lasting hydration. Or for the busy person with no time, both Environ and BeeBio have amazing masques to solve your hydration problems.
Definitely pop in to Embrayce and discuss your skin concerns, we are here to help and the Clinic is lovely and warm !!
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