5 Ways to Winter-Proof Your Skin

It’s getting cold outside, which means it’s time to swap your summer prods for something a little more nourishing to combat that cold, dry air and central heating. To keep your skin happy, healthy and hydrated all year round, here are the five essentials steps to truly winter-proof your skin.

1. Swap your gel cleanser for a soap-free, gentle version.

Few things feel as good as a squeaky-clean face, but many gel and foaming cleansers are seriously drying. You can get away with this a little more in summer when humidity’s at play, but it just won’t fly in winter. 

Switch to a soap-free, non-drying cleanser to keep your skin hydrated. If you’re dry and/or sensitive, Avène’s Gentle Milk Cleanser will wipe away makeup and impurities without stripping moisture or causing aggravation.

2. Double down on hydrating products.

instead of automatically reaching for a richer, heavier cream, which might not be right for your skin type (especially if you’re prone to breakouts), give your skin a serious hydration boost by adding a hard-working serum under your moisturiser. The Avène Hydrance Optimale range is created for, you guessed it, super hydration, and contains a gorgeous, moisture-quenching serum.

Apply the silky Hydrating Serum to a cleansed face and you’ll feel your skin literally drink up the goodness! Then lock that moisture in further with your moisturiser choice. If your skin is truly lipid dry (meaning low in natural oils), you might want to follow with a richer cream. Or if your skin is simply dehydrated, a lighter gel or lotion formulation might be your go-to.

If you like to keep things light, Avène Hydrance Optimale Aqua Cream-in-Gel has the lovely texture of a gel, intensely hydrating the skin without weighing it down. Thermal Spring water soothes any sensitivity, while the skin is protected from free radical damage.

3. Don’t go overboard with the exfoliation.

Exfoliation is essential for smooth glowing skin, but less is more when the mercury drops. Excessive scrubbing or chemical exfoliating will weaken the skin’s barrier, which allows precious moisture to escape. Best to cap it at twice a week, and always use a gentle formulation.

4. Keep up the H20.

We get it – it’s not exactly tempting to glug on ice water when it’s cold outside. But it’s still important to stay hydrated from the inside out, especially when you’re in central heating 24-7. If tap water’s still too chilly, try sipping on hot water with a slice of lemon. And swap out your second and third cups of coffee with a yummy herbal tea.

5. Invest in a humidifier.

The best investment you’ll make for winter? A humidifier. These handy home appliances emit water vapour to combat dry air, and can help remedy chapped lips, sinus problems and parched winter skin.