7 tips for looking after your skin in winter
7 TIPS FOR LOOKING AFTER YOUR SKIN IN WINTER
Every centimetre of skin contains 19 million skin cells, 650 sweat glands, 20 blood vessels and 1,000 nerve endings. The skin is the body's largest organ and a protective shield against harmful environmental influences, including irritants and allergens. For this shield to work well and reliably, you need to care for your skin without damaging its outer layer, known as the skin barrier. This barrier is largely impermeable, helping to retain moisture in the skin and prevent harmful organisms and substances from entering the body. In winter, cold, dry air can easily disrupt the skin barrier. It dehydrates the skin, leaving it dry, irritated, itchy, red, cracked and even painful. If you care about your skin's health and beauty, follow our tips to keep it in good condition throughout the season.
DRINK PLENTY OF WATER
Cold, dry air strips moisture from the skin. So remember to stay hydrated regularly, even in winter. Spread your fluid intake, in the form of water and warm herbal teas, evenly throughout the day. Your drinks should contain no sugar or artificial flavourings. Ginger and lemon are excellent winter companions to warm you up and support your immune system.
CHOOSE YOUR CLEANSING PRODUCTS CAREFULLY
Cleansing is the foundation of a skincare routine that keeps your skin healthy. When choosing products, focus on the ingredients. Avoid soaps and products containing chemicals, alcohol and artificial preservatives. Choose products made from pure natural sources that are non-irritating and gentle on both your skin and the environment.
Our tip
Soapnut cleansing gel
The unique formula with soapnuts and sugar cane thoroughly cleanses the skin and removes excess oil. It has hydrating and soothing properties. It easily removes make-up. Suitable for all skin types, including children's skin.
Find out more here: Facial cleansing gel - Soapnuts - 100 ml
USE MASKS AND EXFOLIATORS
Face masks and exfoliators should be part of your regular skincare routine. They cleanse and renew the skin, restoring a healthy, vibrant and youthful appearance. They remove dead skin cells and provide hydration and essential nourishment. Choosing the right mask or exfoliator gives immediate, visible results. Follow the recommended instructions when applying them.
Our tip
Hydrating mask with ectoin and coenzyme Q10
Intensely hydrates the skin and restores its elasticity. The mask supports skin cell regeneration. It reduces wrinkles and fine lines. It stabilises the skin's pH and has anti-inflammatory properties. Leaves skin soft, supple and firm.
Find out more here: Long-lasting hydrating mask
Dual-action deep exfoliator
Combines physical and chemical exfoliation. Active ingredients deeply cleanse pores and remove excess oil and dead skin cells. The exfoliator hydrates and firms the skin. It reduces uneven pigmentation, brightens the skin and evens out its tone. Jojoba beads massage the skin, stimulate circulation and cleanse.
Find out more here: Glycolic acid chemical peel
AVOID LONG, HOT SHOWERS AND BATHS
If you find it hard to switch from hot to lukewarm water, limit the time you spend in it to no more than ten minutes a day. Although hot water feels very pleasant in winter, it actually dehydrates the skin and strips away the oils it needs. Apply suitable moisturising products immediately after a bath or shower. This helps protect your skin from cracking, redness, irritation, itching and eczema.
USE NATURAL MOISTURISERS AND APPLY THEM STRAIGHT AFTER WASHING
Apply good-quality moisturisers to your face and body every time you wash. Your skincare products should be rich in organic active ingredients such as vitamins, acids, antioxidants, minerals and natural oils that hydrate, nourish and strengthen the skin barrier. Remember to moisturise your hands, feet and lips regularly too.
Our tip
Rosehip cream with ectoin and provitamin B5
Designed for all skin types, especially mature, dry, irritated and even atopic skin. Provides intensive, long-lasting hydration for up to 7 days. Supports cell vitality and the skin's natural barrier. Leaves skin smooth, supple, soft and more even in texture.
Find out more here: Skin barrier repair face cream
Hydrating serum with collagen
Maintains optimal skin hydration throughout the day. Reduces oil production and tightens pores. Provides an extra boost of hydration. Brightens the skin and restores its elasticity and youthful appearance.
Find out more here: Hydrating serum with collagen
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE ELEMENTS
Do not go outside with damp skin. Cold air can easily strip it of moisture and cause irritation. Use make-up sparingly. Protect your hands and face with gloves and a scarf. Wear natural, breathable fabrics that feel comfortable against your skin. Avoid fabric softeners. Moisturise your lips regularly with lip balm.
SUNSCREEN AND SUNGLASSES ARE NOT JUST FOR SUMMER
Do not be fooled by a cold, cloudy day. UV rays reach the earth's surface and your skin all year round, even through heavy cloud. To enjoy the sunshine safely in winter too, protect yourself with sunscreen and sunglasses. This helps prevent premature skin ageing, pigmentation and skin cancer. Your sunscreen should have a protection factor of at least SPF 30, block both UVA and UVB rays and be water-resistant. Reapply every two hours when outdoors. When applying sunscreen, remember to cover your entire neck, ears and lips. Your sunglasses should offer 100% UV protection. Avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight between ten in the morning and four in the afternoon, when it is at its strongest.
Our tip
Wind and cold protection cream
Protects the skin from cold, wind and strong winter sunshine. You can also use it as a day cream. It hydrates and helps regenerate the skin. Supports the skin's natural defences, leaving it soft and supple.
Find out more here:Wind and cold protection cream