Colder months mean more nights inside by the fireplace, wooly jumpers, hot tea and morning frost on the grass. Physiologically, there are changes that occur that help our body in homeostasis. Our body has an intelligent innate system of knowing what the season ahead will entail, and it adapts to keep the body safe and warm. In terms of our skin, there are things that we can be doing to ensure we are taking care of the external layers of the skin during the harsher conditions of winter and cold months.
Cold air and low humidity has a tendency to dry out the skin. Similarly, warm and dry indoors (think heat pump, fireplace, electric heaters) lead to dry skin also. Without proper care, dry skin can lead to redness, itchiness, chapped or cracked lips. It can also elevate eczema or acne if prone to these conditions.
Taking care of your internal and external health means you can counteract the effects of winter and keep your moisture levels high.
- Essential fatty acids (EFA’s)
One of the most important ways to ensure skin health is eating a diet rich in healthy fats. Think of it as moisturising from the inside. Think oily fish, eggs, nuts, avocadoes, lean meats, cold pressed oils, yoghurt, cheese and butter. Incorporating more of these ingredients during the winter months will help to keep your skin supple and hydrated. EFA’s are responsible for oil regulation, a deficiency can present as either oily or dry skin and can also contribute to premature ageing. We love using Bestow Beauty Oil in our smoothies, on salads or even by the spoonful.
2. Consume lots of fruits and veges
In New Zealand during the colder seasons we have an abundance of fruits and vegetables available that are designed for our bodies to be what we need nutritionally at this time of the year. Your skin will take from these fruits and veges what it needs to stay heal, repair and stay hydrated, such as Vitamin A, C, E, Zinc and Selenium. The antioxidants help to fight free radicals, and the fibre helps to maintain regular bowel movements and elimination of toxins.
3. Avoid Alcohol based skincare products
Alcohol based products can dry out your skin, as does peels, micro dermabrasions and exfoliations, which can be harsh on your skin.
4. Keep thermostat lowÂ
Heaters can dry out the skin and environment, it is better for the body to layer up the jumpers than to blast the heater. Meet in the middle and keep the thermostat low and layer up.
5. Use a hydration mask
Using a hydration mask is a quick way to increase moisture when feeling like your skin has caught a case of the winter drys. We love this mask from Bioelements Radicance Rescue to help restore and repair the skin.
Extra tip
It goes without saying that hydration (drinking plenty of water) is key! During the cooler months, a glass of cool water isn’t the most appealing so choose hot tea, warmed milks and tinctures.
