How Winter Dries and Damages Your Skin
Exposure to wind and cold tends to strip away the skin’s natural oils, weakening its barrier and making it more susceptible to redness, irritation, and sensitivity. Cold air holds less moisture, and in Britain there’s 10% less moisture in winter than in summer.
Central heating creates a dry, warm environment that depletes the skin’s natural moisture levels. In fact, the humidity level inside the average centrally heated home is the same as the humidity of the Sahara Desert! This can lead to tightness, flakiness, and even cracked skin, as the skin barrier struggles to retain hydration.
Naughty Christmas foods are loaded with sugar, which spikes your blood sugar levels and triggers a process called glycation. Glycation damages collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep your skin firm and youthful, leading to sagging and wrinkles over time. High sugar intake can also increase oil production, clogging pores and causing breakouts. Salty snacks like crisps or nuts cause water retention and puffiness, especially around the eyes. Excess salt can also dehydrate your skin, leaving it looking dry and dull. Alcohol is another major dehydrator which reduces your skin’s moisture levels and can cause inflammation.
Lack of sunlight in winter can lead to lower vitamin D production, which plays a key role in skin cell growth and repair. This can result in dull, tired-looking skin and it tends to trigger flare-ups of eczema or psoriasis.
The Best Ways to Protect Your Skin in Winter
There are some small acts of that TLC will keep you feeling fabulous no matter how frosty it gets outside. Winter might be tough on your skin, but with these simple steps, you’ll stay radiant and ready to take on the season!
Time to Upgrade Your Moisturiser
Start by swapping out your usual cleanser for a gentle, hydrating one that won’t strip away your natural oils. Think of it as a cosy blanket for your face, keeping it soft and comfy even on the chilliest days. Follow up with a rich moisturiser packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid—these magical ingredients lock in hydration and strengthen your skin’s barrier. Want to go the extra mile? Add a facial oil like rosehip or jojoba to seal in that moisture and keep dryness at bay. If you look for a pure, organic option you can dab it onto blemishes and nip them in the bud. Your skin will thank you with a dewy glow!
Even though you can’t remember what sunshine actually looks like, UV rays don’t actually diminish in winter. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 is even useful in winter to protect your skin from sneaky sun damage and premature ageing. Heading out into the cold? Layer up your skin with a barrier cream or balm to shield it from icy winds, and don’t forget a scarf to guard those delicate areas. And let’s not forget the VIPs of winter skincare: your lips and hands. Keep your lips soft and smooth with a hydrating balm that has SPF, and pamper your hands with a luxurious hand cream to prevent dryness and cracking.
If your skin’s feeling a little rough, exfoliate gently once or twice a week with lactic acid or enzyme-based products. Say goodbye to dullness without irritating your winter-sensitive complexion!
Humidify Your Home
Combat the drying effects of central heating by using a humidifier to maintain optimal moisture levels in the air. This prevents your skin from becoming overly dehydrated indoors. You can either buy radiator humidifiers which are just containers of water to hang over each radiator, releasing a steady amount of vapour into the air. Alternatively you can splash out on an electric humidifier for a stronger solution.
Hydrate from Within
Staying hydrated is just as important in winter as in summer, even if you don’t feel as thirsty. Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin cells plump and helps flush out toxins that can dull your complexion.
But hydration isn’t just about water—healthy fats play a huge role in keeping your skin soft and radiant. Add omega-3-rich foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds to your meals to nourish your skin from the inside out. These essential fats strengthen your skin’s barrier, locking in moisture and preventing dryness and irritation caused by winter’s harsh conditions.
Replenish Your Vitamin D Stores
Short, gloomy winter days mean less sunlight, which can lead to a vitamin D deficiency—a common culprit behind dull, tired-looking skin. Vitamin D is essential for healthy cell growth and repair, so low levels can make your skin appear lacklustre and even worsen conditions like eczema or psoriasis. A high-quality vitamin D supplement can restore your levels, improving not just your skin but also your mood and immune system. Bonus tip: pair your vitamin D supplement with a healthy fat source, like avocado or nuts, to maximise absorption.
Hyaluronic Acid: Hydration from the Inside Out
While topical hyaluronic acid serums work wonders, taking hyaluronic acid supplements can amplify your skin’s hydration from within. Hyaluronic acid is a natural molecule in your skin that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, keeping your skin plump, smooth, and youthful. As we age, hyaluronic acid levels decline, leading to dryness and fine lines—especially in the winter months. A supplement can replenish these levels, helping your skin retain moisture even in dry indoor air or cold outdoor conditions. Think of it as your skin’s internal water reservoir!
Marine Collagen: Winter’s Anti-Aging Hero
Marine collagen supplements, rich in type 1 collagen, are another must-have for maintaining flawless skin during winter. Collagen is the structural protein that keeps skin firm and elastic, but its natural production decreases as we age. Marine collagen, derived from fish, is easily absorbed by the body and specifically targets the skin. It supports the repair of winter-damaged skin, promotes elasticity, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For best results, pair your marine collagen with vitamin C, which enhances collagen synthesis and boosts your skin’s natural glow.
Here’s to Glowing Winter Skin!
By adjusting your skincare routine, protecting your skin from environmental stressors, and nourishing it from within, you can maintain radiant, flawless skin even during the harshest winter months. Consistency is key – your skin will thank you!
