Even if you live in a high-humidity environment like the UK, your skincare regimen and hair need special attention in the winter. Here are the things you should be doing every day so you don’t have to do a lot of repair work come spring.
Humidify
Yes, the air is humid, and that’s a good thing when you’re outside. But when that water vapour dries, it takes your skin’s moisture with it. If you live in a home with central heat, you’re no doubt running it most of the time between December and March, and it will dry you out in hair and skin. A small humidifier will even things out.
Moisturise
A heavy, creamy moisturiser and a serum are absolutely essential in winter; also use a cleansing milk or cream. If you can’t afford both a day and night cream, go for the nighttime moisturiser; if you can afford both, buy them. A serum with hyaluronic acid should also play a role in your daily regimen, but especially during the winter, as it gives your skin extra ability to retain moisture. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory so will combat the redness from wind and weather exposure.
That central heating and indoor dry air also create static electricity. Choose styling creams and lotions rather than gels that contain alcohol, as these also sap moisture. If you can find one, use a boar-bristle brush because they are much less conductive than plastic or metal.
Wash your hair as infrequently as you can get away with, every two or three days if possible. If you feel a bit oily, try a dry shampoo at the roots. When you do wash, condition beforehand, then shampoo, and then condition again.
Eat those oils
All those good things you know you’re supposed to eat, they count for double in the winter to help you retain moisture. Plus, over the long term, you can slow down your collagen loss by eating fish high in omega-3s, nuts (especially walnuts), and healthy oils. Omega-3 supplements won’t hurt, either.
Also as you already know, you should eat sugar in great moderation – it’s a collagen killer. With December’s parties, you might have a hard time avoiding the alcohol, but when possible, favour lower-sugar options, such as vodka, over wine.
Cell membranes are damaged and thinned by free radicals. The antioxidants called flavonoids in citrus fruits put a stop to the radicals, but be sure to eat the fruits whole, not juiced. The white pithy stuff makes them bitter but also contains more of the flavonoids than the juicy parts. Oranges and grapefruits are tops for flavonoid content and, of course, vitamin C, which is also key to collagen production. Wellness from the inside is important, too!
Even if you live in a high-humidity environment like the UK, your skincare regimen, preferably organic brands, and hair need special attention in the winter. Here are the things you should be doing every day so you don’t have…
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