As the morning chill sets in, it’s time to consider how to keep your skin looking youthful over the winter months. Here are five tips to keep you looking your best
Use sunscreen daily
UV radiation is the leading cause of colour and texture changes that age your skin, along with being carcinogenic. You may think, “why do I need sunscreen in winter, when it’s not hot or sunny?” but UV rays are still present during the cooler months, especially in somewhere as sunny as Perth. Look for products with an SPF of 30 or above with active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium oxide for the best results.
Stay hydrated
Cooler weather can lead to us drink less water than we do in summer, so it’s vital to stay vigilant around your hydration. Your skin will remain moisturised, healthy, and glowing throughout winter by staying hydrated. Every body is different, but the Australian Nutrient Reference Values recommend adults consume between 2-3L of water a day, depending on their age, gender, and activity levels.
Use products that promote skin hydration
To hydrate your skin and ensure it stays that way, you should consider using products that both hydrate and moisturise. Yes, there is a difference – hydration adds water to the skin, and moisturiser prevents that water from escaping. Finding the right product for your skin will depend on your skin type. Look for products containing glycerin or hyaluronic acid, known as humectants (they draw water to themselves), and ceramides, a natural part of the skin’s protective barrier.
Strengthen your skin barrier
The increase in windy weather, colder temperatures and artificial heating in winter can damage your skin barrier. To help it withstand the effects of winter and keep it looking youthful at the same time, you should consider using products that contain lipids (fatty acids and ceramides) or ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which will strengthen your skin barrier by enhancing its natural defences. These ingredients help replenish and stimulate lipid production, allowing the skin to repair itself.
Watch what you eat and drink
What you eat and drink has a direct relationship with your skin. Limit alcohol consumption and avoid inflammatory foods, sugar and sweeteners, and processed foods. They can spike blood sugar levels and cause the body to release Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs) that speed up the aging process.
By protecting your skin from the winter sun and wind, keeping hydrated and eating well, you have the best chance of achieving your desired results.
We recommend O Cosmedics products and are a stockist. Visit the Mark Lee Plastic Surgeon rooms to view our selection of products.