Pamper your skin this winter

Winter is here and while most of you have changed your wardrobe to suit the cold weather, how many of you have thought about changing your skincare routines

Much like the heat, the cold also wreaks havoc on your skin bringing an uncomfortable dryness to the face, lips, hands, and feet. Therefore, taking that extra step to pamper the skin with moisturisers and emollients is imperative. Dermatologist Nithin Manohar shares some easy tips you can put into place straightaway to protect yourself against the elements this season.

Identify skin type

The first step towards proper skin care is to know your skin type so that you spend your hard-earned money picking the right products. Skin types range from oily, shiny skin to dry and tight, or a combination of the two. So visit a specialist who can analyse your skin type, and give you advice on the skin care products you should be using. Moisturise more

You may have found a moisturiser that works just fine in spring and summer. But as weather conditions change, so, too, should your skin care routine. Find an ointment moisturiser that’s oil-based, rather than water-based, as the oil will create a protective layer on the skin that retains more moisture than a cream or lotion. Make sure you use it twice daily and generously, especially those who take long walks to work.

Give yourself a hand

The hands are the most exposed to the cold so it’s highly recommended you invest in a hand cream. Apart from protecting your mitts, it also helps to soften callused skin, and all the more better if you’re a gym goer.

Lips don’t lie

Nothing can be as irritating and painful as cracked lips. Go for a lip balm that contains SPF that will keep them soft and fresh. You can also treat lips with a beeswax lip balm or petroleum jelly.

Eye care

The skin around the eye is symbolic of how healthy you look. And dark circles in winter need an extra bit of care. Eye roll-ons are a good option. The cold ball used in roll-ons helps reduce swelling around the eyes and gives your eyes the extra spark. A close shave

It is recommended that you shave soon after a hot shower as you will open the pores and make the hair softer. Post shave, use a cooling balm to reduce redness and sensitivity of the skin. Balms also help reduce shaving rashes which is a common problem with dryer, winter skin.