Standing on a very dark and snowy train platform at 6.30am this morning, it occurred to me that it’s time to talk about cold-snap skincare.
Because, as we know, when the weather turns and the chill really sets in, our skin is confronted by a storm of elemental changes that significantly compromise its hydration levels. The main culprits? Low temperatures and humidity, steaming-hot showers and indoor heating. In these conditions skin can quickly become papery, dry, tight and inflamed, resulting in increased sensitivity and moisture loss.
This said, winter skin is far from a lost cause — especially if you keep on top of things from early on…say, now. To counteract the aforementioned symptoms, seek out gentle skincare that prioritises hydration. Humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and polyglutamic acid draw in water to saturate the upper layers of the dermis. Next, the aim of the game is to lock in moisture with barrier-fortifying lipids – ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids. An impaired skin barrier will always struggle to retain moisture.
Layering your products strategically in this way, and opting for richer textures (all while resisting the urge to over-cleanse), can make the difference between that dreaded winter dullness and comfortable, resilient, glowy winter skin
And while I appreciate that this is an unbearably expensive time of year, and probably not the time to be buying gifts-to-self, these five products are — in my opinion — well worth the investment for those in need of a extra support.
ES COMP
The cleanser: Cetafil Gentle Cleanser
In colder weather consider turning to mild cleansers formulated to hydrate and help skin retain moisture. My long-term cold weather cleanser, this very effectively sweeps away dirt and makeup, while supporting a vulnerable winter skin barrier.(£17,Boots.com)
The serum: Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Serum
When my skin is compromised I swamp my more active serums for those that boost hydration and water retention. With multi-molecular Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5, this superlative option transforms my skin from dry and papery to plump and dewy on even the coldest days. (£45, cultbeauty.co.uk)
The Moisturiser: SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 Anti-Ageing Lipid Replenishment Treatment
This moisturiser is frighteningly expensive, but I have seen it pull my skin back from the brink on countless occasions. As such, IMO it is worth the splurge. Its clever lipid ratio of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids restores bounce and resilience thrillingly fast. (£150, skinceuticals.co.uk)
The Balm: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5
You’ll find this rich, unctuous repairing balm in almost every beauty editor’s bathroom cabinet. Almost miraculously soothing and hydrating, it tends to everything from rashes and sensitivity, to sore bits, dry spots and bites. (£19.50, cultbeauty.co.uk)
The Toner: Byoma Brightening Toner
Byoma’s clever formulations are designed with barrier support and boosting front and centre. This excellent clarifying toner with niacinamide and a tri-ceramide complex works to counteract dull, dry, wintery skin without any irritation. (£11.99, cultbeauty.co.uk)
