How the cold weather changes our skin…
What happens to the weather that causes our skin to change?
We can feel those crispy mornings starting to creep upon us now as we move deeper into Autumn. Approaching those frosty winter months I, for one, prefer the cold temperatures to the in-between grey, rainy moderate days of the colder months. My toddler and I love the crunch of the leaves beneath our feet and discovering all the colours of autumn as the weather changes.
However, this drop in temperature and change of humidity makes a big reduction of moisture in the air, thus causing some frustrating changes to our skin, particularly if you have a dry skin type. If we are in the clutches of a cold snap, it can have a significant impact on our skin.
The science behind changes to our skin and how our skin reacts.
Our skin increases the thickness of the top layer of skin to prevent water loss during cold, dry conditions. However, this may cause your skin to need more moisturising.
During the winter season, when the cold air hits your skin, your body constricts your blood vessels in your extremities to reduce the blood flow to the skin, this is called vasoconstriction. This helps your body maintain its core temperature by reducing heat loss from your skin. However, this can cause your skin temperature to drop, disrupting the skin barrier along with the low drop in humidity levels, therefore resulting in potential dry skin.
In cold weather conditions, the skin barrier can become weakened, thus allowing irritants to penetrate more easily, which can make a real change to your skin health potentially making skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis more aggravated.
Our skin can really start to struggle to stay hydrated in the dry, cold air. It can start to feel tight, much drier and much more sensitive and irritated as the weather gets colder.
How can we help our skin during this seasonal change?
As this winter weather sets in, we may have to make adjustments to our skin care routine, our clothing choices and the way we bathe.
Let’s take a look at some of the ways we can help ourselves:
skin care routine
Balms and creams moisturise the skin for longer than lotions
Apply your creams straight after bathing (within 3 minutes) in order to lock in moisture
Use Dead Sea or Epsom bath salts - hydrates and softens the skin
Exfoliate less, only once a week
Use organic and mineral based makeup, less heavy foundation, try wearing non waterproof mascara so you don’t need to overwash your skin so much in the eve
Don’t lick your lips! Or wear a protective lipbalm such as our Nature’s Lipbalm on a cold day
Try serums that may boost your skin’s vitality such as a vitamin C serum - strengthens the skins moisture barrier
I personally like some sun exposure on my face in the cold months to absorb vitamin D however, if you are outdoors for long periods, UV rays can cause sun damage to the skin so a good organic SPF in winter can help protect the skin
Use gentle skin care products without chemicals
Applying our balm to your windswept skin in very cold weather, or harsh winds before you venture out, will help protect the skin's barrier, I put some on my cheeks for protection in cold winds
Adding some oils such as Jojoba oil, Almond oil, Rosehip Oil into your skincare routine helps lock in more moisture, relieve dryness and can help soften the skin. I have a homemade facial oil which I use - a few drops of oil on my skin morning and evening. Or sometimes, if the skin on my face is particularly dry, I put my balm on and let it soak in, in the evenings.
protecting the skin
Wearing soft clothing such as cotton, bamboo or silk thermals can be gentle on the skin
Fragrance free, sensitive laundry liquids
Avoid bathing in very hot water or having long, hot showers
Avoid showering every day to help the skin retain some moisture
Try ice baths on your face - this can improve blood circulation, the skin tone and reduce puffiness as it increases oxygen and nutrients to the skin but be careful not to do it for long as it could irritate your skin. It's a good booster to your mood too.
how to take care of your skin in your home
I love house plants! Cant' have enough! More plants in your home increases the humidity in the air, also great for helping sore throats and dry coughs, get yourself a little humidity meter and aim for around 40 - 60% relative humidity
Try wearing more layers, thermals and warm jumpers rather than relying on indoor heating or too many cosy fires as this tends to suck the moisture out of the air. I’m a big fan of www.bambooclothing.com their thermals are the best in colder weather!
Try and maintain a balanced diet, avoid sugary foods for comfort in these cosy winter months as it can play havoc with your skin. Keep up with foods with high water content such as fruit and veg, hydration inside and out is key in these drier conditions.
Take supplements to help your skin such as omega 3, vitamin C, vitamin E, probiotics etc. Also in the northern hemisphere, we should all be taking a vitamin D supplement especially during winter months
If you are really suffering with your skin, you could try investing in a humidifier as this will increase the moisture in the air
hydrate!
Drink lots of water! Lack of water = dehydrated skin! Adequate hydration is vital for your skin's moisture levels during these colder temperatures. If you’re a fan of lots of hot drinks in winter, try and avoid too much caffeine, throw in a few comforting herbal teas, my favourite is Inner Harmony by Yogi Tea.
Don’t forget to check out our Gem’s Dry Skin Balm which is exactly the kind of balm you need in these colder months. It really tackles dry, sore hands or even as a protective layer on your face before a walk. Please do have a read of some of our testimonials if you require further info, as it has helped many people suffering with skin prone to skin conditions such as eczema.
I hope this little article has helped with some tips to maintain healthy skin during these seasonal changes.
Sending love to those reading this and hope, for a bit of winter sun!
Gem x