Don't let the cold winds of winter chap and chafe you. Stay smooth soft and supple with our essential winter skin survival guide.
Did you know that nearly 60% of women over the age of 18 rank dry, dehydrated skin as their main concern during winter? So if your skin starts to suffer when the weather turns, our essential tips will ensure you are prepared.
Exfoliate
Exfoliation is very important as it helps to remove the dead cells on the skin and makes it look brighter and fresher. Removing this redundant top layer also stimulates cell production lower down in the epidermis.
So after cleansing, use a facial loofah disc to massage gently and loosen any dead cells on the skin's surface. If your skin is especially dry, massage a little
Living Facial Cleanser onto damp skin.
Your skin will definitely benefit from weekly exfoliation. The key is to be gentle since over-enthusiastic scrubbing can undermine your skin's barrier function.
Then apply your preferred
organic moisturiser (any of Raw Gaia’s moisturisers are great because they contain oils rich in Essential Fatty Acids to help replace lost moisture) at least 30 minutes to an hour before going outside. This is important because it will give your moisturiser time to penetrate and get absorbed by the skin and this will give you better protection from the elements.
Chapped Lips, Dry Hands And Feet
Usually lips and hands suffer most during the winter season. Lips get sore and chapped and hands get dry and flaky. For your lips, choose a thicker moisturiser such as
shea butter or cold-pressed
jojoba oil and apply it every time before going outside as well as before going to bed. (We are currently working on an improved formulation of our lip balm, so watch this space!)
When it comes to hands, again go for a thick moisturizer and
shea butter does a great job. For your feet, if your skin is naturally dry, soak feet in warm water for 10 minutes, then apply shea butter to heels and soles and wear socks before you go to bed.
Beat The Heating
You can help the planet as well as save your skin by turning the central heating down a degree or two. Central heating creates a low humidity environment that literally strips skin of its natural moisture, while low outdoor temperatures provide a harsh contrast, meaning skin can become more sensitive.
According to the International Dermal Institute, 'Should the relative humidity of our environment drop below 60 per cent, our skin will start to become dehydrated. Central heating is renowned for drying the atmosphere and altering humidity.'
You can counteract the drying effects of central heating in your home or office, by placing a bowl of water near or on the radiator, to put more moisture back into the air.
Vitamins and Minerals
You can help your skin to regain its energy and strength during the winter by taking nutritional supplements. Vitamin C, B, E, Sulphur, Zinc and Magnesium are particularly important for healthy skin. Superfoods including camu camu, wheatgrass and spirulina as well as our MSM Supplement are high in these vitamins and minerals and are great for promoting healthy skin.
Water
Drink lots of water. Internal hydration keeps skin cells plump and healthy. Water also helps transport nutrients to skin cells, keeping them nourished. Water should be at room temperature or slightly warm to avoid hampering digestion. Water-rich vegetables like leafy greens and green-skinned squashes are great for internal hydration as well as skin nourishment. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which are dehydrating.
Dress in Layers
Wearing layers allows you to remove clothing as needed to prevent overheating. As much as possible, loose-fitting cotton fabrics next to your skin.
Stay Active
Do not give in to winter blues. Do your daily fitness routine! This keeps you fit and stimulates blood circulation in your whole body and of course, your skin!
©Raw Gaia, 2008 – The world’s first full range of living, organic and vegan skin care products
