It’s that time of year when clients need to layer up and keep snug — and that includes protecting their skin, says Fiona Tuck.
Skin can become dry over the winter months due to chilly winter air, indoor heating and a heavier diet. Stodgy high carbohydrate diets may provide extra fuel but can often be lacking in essential skin nutrients such as omega 3 essential fats and antioxidants.
Here are some top client tips for soft radiant winter skin:
Layer up. The skin can become dry due to indoor heating, sitting in front of fires and being outside in a colder climate. Advising using a rich protective balm or nourishing treatment oil will help to protect the skin’s natural barrier function, sealing in moisture and reduce sensitivity.
Don’t over exfoliate. Overzealous cleansing and exfoliating an already dry or sensitive skin will result in redness and irritation. Prescribe more gentle protective ingredients such as vitamin B, anti-oxidants and enzymes that will gently remove dry skin leaving it soft and supple.
Peel it off. Winter is an excellent time for clients to book in for professional treatments such as skin peels and laser treatments that can really rejuvenate the skin – addressing conditions such as lines, wrinkles and pigmentation.
Get moving. It may be winter but going outside for a walk in the winter morning sunshine will boost vitamin D levels (great to banish the winter blues). Regular exercise is imperative for oxygenating the skin and removing waste materials from the cells, resulting in a healthy glow.
Eat your veggies. We need extra antioxidants in the winter particularly vitamin C and A to fight off winter colds. Vitamin C is also essential for healthy connective tissue such as capillaries, collagen and bones. Look to eat plenty of foods such as oranges, berries, green leafy vegetables such as kale and brussel sprouts. Your skin will thank you for it.
Take cod liver oil. Cod liver oil contains omega-3 to promote good health and radiant skin plus vitamin A, an essential skin nutrient and cold and flu fighter. It also contains vitamin D which needs boosting in the winter months.
Fiona Tuck is managing director of Skinstitut, visit www.skinstitut.com