Skin Tips For Winter

For many of us, the season of winter can be a troubling time for our health and wellness, especially when it comes to our skin. These cold clear days can result in uncomfortable dryness to the face and body. For some, these symptoms can worsen with skin flaking and cracking. Chiva-Som winner of Best Destination Spa at the Conde Nast Traveller Spa Awards 2020 has put together a few ways to prepare for winter’s effects on facial skin, as well as dealing with wintertime skincare. 

1. CHANGING YOUR CLEANSER

Cleansers can be extremely drying to the skin so it is wise to use one which contains more moisturising ingredients. Once you have cleansed your skin, avoid leaving it to dry naturally as this can dehydrate it, leading to increased dryness.

2. EXFOLIATION

It is difficult for moisture to penetrate the skin if there are too many dead cells. Use an exfoliator after cleansing to remove these cells. This should immediately be followed up with a moisturiser to lock-in the moisture you have replenished your skin with. Similarly, exfoliating body washes are also helpful in the winter months.

3. MOISTURISE MORE

Depending on your skin type, the amount of moisturiser that you should use can differ. However, heavier creams are best for the dry and cold winter months. If you do use a lighter moisturiser in the summer, it is unlikely to be effective in the winter months. Consider using a heavier moisturiser especially in the evenings so your skin has the time to rest and absorb the extra moisture for the coming day. 

4. LIP CARE

Your lips are delicate and tend to become chapped because of dehydration and the harsh elements that come with the winter months such as the dry air. If your lips do become flaky, take a clean toothbrush and gently exfoliate the skin by using circular motions. You should then slather lip balm onto the lips and continue to reapply throughout the day.  

5. HAND AND FEET CARE

Your hands should be moisturised several times throughout the day, especially after washing. If your hands are particularly dry, use a cream instead of a lotion as it has a higher oil-to-water ratio. Your feet should also be moisturised every day, especially the keels with a thick cream which contains lactic acid. Wearing cotton socks to bed can help with locking in the moisture. 

6. HYDRATE YOUR BODY

 The body needs to be hydrated from the inside and the outside. Eating foods that are high in water content such as cantaloupe, watermelon, apples cauliflower and broccoli. Also, ensure you're getting enough vitamin C and zinc to support the healthy production of collagen and elastin. 

HOMEMADE SKINCARE RECIPE

FACE MASK

• Mix 2-3 tablespoons of oats and coconut butter (the solid form of coconut oil) then heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds or until the mixture becomes a thick paste
• Leave it until warm and spread on the face, leave for 15 minutes then rinse with lukewarm water. The active ingredients for the oats and coconut oil will help to restore your skin barrier, leaving the skin silky smooth

NIGHT MOISTURISER (FACE)

• Use coconut oil in place of night cream for dry skin. Coconut oil helps in increasing hydration and reducing water loss. Also, it highly contains vitamin E which helps to protect skin and the fatty acids in the oil will strengthen the skin’s barrier to lock in moisture. For acne-prone skin, add a little coconut oil in normal moisturiser

BODY BUTTER

• Mix shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil and essential oil such as rosewood or jasmine
• Apply it after your shower to lock in the moisture