OH! Magazine - Australian Version August 2018 | Page 26

( HEALTH ) SIX TIPS FOR WONDROUS WINTER SKIN REBECCA PHOODIE MASON Rebecca Mason shares these tips for wonderful winter skin. t’s that time of year – we’ve been cracking open red wine, lighting fires and hibernating with that special someone and it’s not over yet! So what do we need to know about looking after our skin now we’re in the depths of winter? I Here are six tips to help your skin survive through to the end of the season. Tip 1. Dry skin For those with naturally dry skin (a bit rare when we have acne, but it does happen!), the cool winter air can slow down your skin’s oil production, meaning you have less oil, which means less of a natural lubricant – aka, dry skin. How can we combat this? Moisturise! As part of your skincare regime, consult your dermal clinician or beautician to discuss the best moisturiser for your skin type. Tip 2. Dehydrated skin Making sure you consume at least eight to ten glasses of high quality water a day, can help to keep you and your skin well hydrated. With a combination of the dry air, and then heated indoor air, your skin can easily lose water. If you have trouble remembering to drink this much water throughout the day, set an alarm as a reminder or carry a drink bottle with you the whole time. Tip 3. Check your products Some skincare products (particularly those that treat acne), which are high in benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid may dry 26 OH! MAGAZINE ( AUGUST 2018 ) out your skin. Make sure you check with your dermal clinician or therapist to see if you can complement your products by including a hydrating mist, which will help combat the dryness. brush them when doing your teeth, as it can help to get rid of the old skin build up, and restore your luscious lips to their natural state. Remember also, to use a lip balm to moisturise – try using coconut oil if your wallet is a little tight! Tip 4. Showering Tip 6. Hats and scarves Who doesn’t love a steaming hot shower as a way to warm up the coldest of winter nights? Unfortunately, hot water and harsh soaps can contribute to drying the skin and stripping it of its natural oil barrier. So limit hot showers to a few minutes (although yes, it’s tempting to stand there and defrost), and always use a gentle cleanser. These are necessary – particularly if you’re going skiing or spending a decent period of time outside in the cold air. Make sure you give your skin some air time (literally), so it’s not trapped under the garments for an extended period of time, and be hygienic with the clothing you use (particularly if you have acne and if that clothing touches the infected areas). Tip 5. Luscious lips If you have dry, cracked or flakey lips, By heeding these tips, your skin will come out of winter feeling wonderful.