Is your skin struggling to 'weather' the change in season?
It is not uncommon to experience dry skin with the change in season. This can be due to a range of factors including cooler drier air, being indoors with heating or taking longer, hotter showers. You may find yourself needing extra moisture you haven't before. Along with adding in a richer moisturiser we have put together some tips to bring back that healthy summer glow.
Tip 1
MAINTAIN HYDRATION WITH A BLAND, FRAGRANCE FREE MOISTURISER.
If you are experiencing dry and sensitive skin it is important to avoid products that contain alcohol or fragrance.
Both alcohol and fragrance can strip the skin of its natural barrier and have the potential to cause contact allergies.
We also recommend choosing a moisturiser that won't break the bank. Outside locking in hydration, moisturisers themselves cannot actively treat skin concerns such as acne, ageing and sun damage. So, it's worth saving your pennies for clinically proven cosmeceuticals.
With the drop in temperature (and being stuck in isolation) it can be tempting to spend longer in the shower or treat yourself to a hot bath. This is not inherently bad however, long, hot showers and baths can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dry and cracked skin, and increasing the risk of infection.
Tips for getting the most out of your showering routine
Keep showers short and lukewarm: Dr Armour recommends you try to keep showers short -- preferably under three minutes in length -- and at a lukewarm temperature.
Moisturise: Following your shower, apply your moisturiser. This will help trap the hydration from your shower into the skin's epidermis -- leaving it healthy and happy.
Avoid being ‘squeaky clean’: According to Dr Armour, soaps are alkaline and can dissolve the skin barrier. The skin surface is meant to be quite acidic and good bacteria enjoy an acidic skin environment. Using soap-substitutes or soap-free washes is another way to safely shower daily, whilst avoiding the irritation that soaps can cause.
If you really enjoy baths, use a bath oil while you're soaking to hydrate your skin.
Tip #3
REDUCE VITAMIN A TO EVERY OTHER DAY
If you are finding your skin particularly dry in the mornings, it may be worth reducing your Vitamin A/topical retinoid usage to every other day, because, while it’s surely the wrinkle-fighting hero product, it is also a strong exfoliant and may cause extra dryness during the cooler months. Combining this with a daily cream or serum that contains appropriate actives will still allow you to get maximum benefits from your regime.
Tip #4
DON'T FORGET YOUR SPF
It is important to keep up use of your daily SPF, even if the weather is overcast. 80-90% of the sun’s UV rays still reach the earth’s surface (and hence our skin) even on cloudy days.
(We might be bias, but ourPigment Protectorcontains resveratrol and SPF ensuring you get appropriate sun protection and moisture in one.)
When to see a dermatologist
Your skin should start to feel better quickly. If these changes do not bring relief, you may want to see a dermatologist. Very dry skin can require a prescription ointment or cream. Dry skin also can be a sign of a skin condition that needs treatment. A dermatologist can examine your skin and explain what can help reduce your discomfort.
If you have questions about your skin or skincare routine, feel free to reach out at any time. We'd love to hear from you!
