Winter Skincare Survival Tips : how to revamp your skincare routine to survive the chill this winter in Birmingham.

As the winter chill sets in, it's time to revamp your skincare routine just like you update your winter wardrobe. The dropping temperatures and harsh winds can take a toll on your skin, and maintaining a healthy complexion becomes essential, especially as we are starting see the drop in temperature in England. To help you combat the winter blues and keep your skin glowing, Dr Kaur has put together this guide filled with winter skincare survival tips. Whether you're looking to tweak your skincare routine or considering a skincare consultation at My Cosmetic Doctor, we've got you covered.

Understanding Moisturisers for Your Skin Type

One of the fundamental steps in any skincare routine, especially during winter, is moisturising. However, choosing the right moisturiser can be confusing, particularly for those with oily or combination skin. Here, we break down the three basic types of moisturisers and how to adapt them for the winter season:

1. Humectants

• Examples: Hyaluronic acid, urea, glycerin.
  
• These ingredients draw water from deeper skin layers and help retain it.
  
• Ideal for oily skin, but in winter, a purely humectant-based moisturiser may not provide enough hydration.
  

2. Emollients:

• Examples: Squalene, jojoba oil, Argan oil, dimethicone.
  
• Emollients work by smoothening and softening the skin, filling cracks in the skin's outermost layer.
  
•  For those who tend to break out with heavy-textured moisturisers, opt for emollients containing dimethicone and squalene and avoid heavy oils.

3. Occlusives:

• Examples: Lanolin, wax, petroleum jelly, butters.
  
•  Occlusives create a water-repellant barrier that seals in moisture within the skin, reducing trans-epidermal water loss.
  
• Perfect for dry skin but may lead to pore clogging for those with oily skin. These are excellent for spot treatment of very dry skin patches.
  

The Extras

Moisturisers or serums containing atleast two of the above e.g. a humectant and emollients with ceramides and/or soothing agents like allantoin and bisabolol can also be quite calming for the skin particularly at this time of the year.

Personal Experience: Finding the Right Balance for Oily Skin

Dr Kaur says “If you have oily skin like me, you might usually get away with using a hyaluronic acid serum as your primary moisturiser. However, when the winter chill strikes, your skin may start craving extra care. I've been relying on a combination of humectant and emollient-based moisturisers especially at night to keep my skin hydrated and healthy. Without this, I would not be able to continue my usual actives like tretinoin and glycolic acid. 

One of my current favourites is the Obagi Hydrate facial moisturiser. It combines humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin with emollients such as dimethicone. Additionally, it contains soothing agents like allantoin and vitamin E, which help calm and nourish the skin.

So, don't feel guilty about having a variety of moisturisers on your shelf. Your skin will thank you for the extra care during the winter months.”

Optimising Your Winter Skincare Routine further:

With the cold and potentially harsh weather we will experience in Birmingham, a well-thought-out winter skincare routine is crucial to keep your skin healthy and radiant. Here are a few more tips to ensure your skin stays beautiful:

1. Protect Your Skin Barrier: The cold can damage your skin barrier, leading to sensitivity and dryness. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser and avoid hot water when washing your face.

2. Sunscreen is Still Essential: Even in winter, UV rays can harm your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily to protect against UV damage.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps maintain skin hydration. Include hydrating foods in your diet, such as water-rich fruits and vegetables.

4. Regular Exfoliation: Gentle exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, allowing your moisturiser and actives to penetrate better. Opt for a milder chemical exfoliant like lactic acid if your skin is feeling too dry. OR consider reducing the concentration or frequency of use rather than stopping.

5. Humidify Your Home: Indoor heating can dry out the air, leading to dehydrated skin. Consider using a humidifier to add moisture back to your living spaces.

6. Consult a Skincare Professional: If you're unsure about the best products and routines for your skin, consider a skincare consultation at My Cosmetic Doctor in Birmingham. 
Dr Kaur can provide personalised advice and treatments to address your unique needs.

7. Consider Profhilo injectable treatment: Amidst the winter skincare essentials we’ve discussed, one standout option to consider is in-clinic treatments like Profhilo. This advanced treatment, available at My Cosmetic Doctor in Birmingham, UK, offers a powerful solution for winter-dehydrated skin. Profhilo’s unique ability to deeply hydrate and stimulate collagen production provides intense moisture, enhanced elasticity, and a naturally rejuvenated appearance. If you’re looking for a transformative approach to winter skincare, Profhilo may be the key to ensuring your skin remains radiant and resilient throughout the season

Conclusion:

Your skin deserves extra love and care during the winter months. With the right moisturisers and a well-rounded skincare routine, you can maintain a healthy, radiant complexion AND continue on your current active regime. Don't forget to consult with skincare professionals at My Cosmetic Doctor for tailored recommendations and treatments. As you follow these winter skincare survival tips, you'll not only protect your skin but also enhance its natural beauty, ensuring you look and feel your best, even in the harshest of winters.

Our cosmetic doctors in Harborne, Birmingham, also take great pride prioritising continuity of care and are dedicated to delivering natural-looking results. Schedule a consultation with our clinic and experience the expertise and personalised care that sets us apart. Skincare consultations fee is £50.