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Whether it be the skin on your face, body or hands, winter can take its toll on more than just our mood. Bitter winds and central heating are just two of the factors that can cause our skin to become dry and sore. Our skin needs protection from environmental conditions and there are steps you can follow to do this.
Face
Wearing a moisturiser with SPF isn’t something that should only be considered in the summer months. An SPF also protects our skin from wind and winter sun damage during the cooler months. A skincare routine should already include an exfoliation process once or twice a week but can be increased if you’re finding your skin is flaky and dry. A hydrating mask used once a week should help boost the moisture in your skin and you may find a slightly richer moisturiser applied before bed can help reduce any dry patches.
Body
Many people forget that the skin on our bodies needs polishing (exfoliating) a few times each week. Sloughing off built up skin cells will result in softer, brighter skin. An easy way to introduce this step into your bathing routine is using a pair of exfoliating mitts, available in high street chemists. Squeeze your shower cream/skin wash onto the mitts and you get an all over ex-foliation without a mess or fuss. For sufferers of scaly, flaky dry skin using an actual body scrub is recommended once a week for a more thorough skin polish. Hard water in this area dries the skin so always apply a rich body cream or oil after bathing. This restores the skins pH balance and creates a protective barrier on the surface.
Hands and Nails
Hands can really suffer during the winter months so a hand cream is a must. A handy tube in your bag, a tube by the sink, one on the bedside table… you can’t over moisturise when it comes to the hands. Nails often get ignored when hand cream is being applied so be sure to massage the product into the nail plate and around the cuticles. A good manicure is a great idea any time of year and if your hands are suffering at the hands of the central heating, a paraffin wax or warm oil treatment can be carried out to give an instant moisture boost.
Latest Look: Metallic Eyes and Berry Lips
The latest look being showcased on the catwalks this autumn were metallic and foil eyes in molten colours and rich berry lips.
Add a flash of colour to your look using powers and pigments. MAC and L’Oreal have some great colours to add to your collection. Remember your primer to help the look last longer and avoid the colour collecting in any skin creases,