By now, you’re probably mentally exhausted by all the adjustments that Winter comes with. From rearranging your home to bring warmth into the house, to switching up your wardrobe bringing closer those fur coats, onesies, and boots, not to mention, being careful about how closely we gravitate towards comfort food (which we all unpacked in previous blog posts). So, here’s one more thing you need to worry about… your skin potentially breaking out as the temperatures drop!
While making all these adjustments, there’s nothing worse than dealing with the damage control that this season presents when it comes to your skin. What can you do to combat your skin responding negatively to the chilly weather outside? We spoke to Dermatologist, Dr. Claudia Moloabi and Beauty Editor, Grace Mantjiu.
Here are steps to taking better care of your skin this Winter
Step 1: Get Yourself Checked Out!
According to Dr. Moloabi, it’s not advisable to apply a one-size-fits-all approach to your skin as we all have different skin types. “To follow up a proper skin routine, the first appropriate step is to consult a dermatologist to have the right skin diagnosis, especially if you have a particular skin concern. This will also help you pick up issues you may have not been aware of,” she advises.
Step 2: Invest In A Good Cleanser!
“As you age, your skin changes. That’s why we must take even better care of it. Regular cleansing is essential to keeping your skin radiant. Cleansing helps products and treatments penetrate your skin, it further keeps your skin hydrated and prevents the production of excess oil,” says Mantjiu. She also emphasises that it is important to cleanse your skin, to remove all the grime from products and makeup we use daily. “Doing this regularly will keep your skin looking clean and will help you create a clean slate to make room for the products you’ll be using throughout the day. Most importantly, it helps to keep your pores clear and prevent skin conditions such as acne. Make sure you use the right type of cleanser based on the type of skin you have. I would advise the use of gentle cleansers that have less potential to aggravate your skin, leaving it very dry,” she adds.
AoS Recommends: Manuka Natural Creamy Cleanser , Uso Active Cleanser
Step 3: Get Yourself A Bottle Of Serum!
Mantjiu likens serums to a supplement that you need to keep your body on track. “That’s a serum to your skincare routine. There are these lightweight formulations with a very high concentration of active ingredients that are essential for your skin. Serums address anything from anti-aging, hydration, controlling oil, pigmentation, etc. There are different types of serums, from even tone to radiance and hydration, among various options,” she explains. She continues to add that serums work hand-in-hand with moisturizers. “The intention for serums is to deliver these important ingredients, deep into your skin. I would suggest prioritising the use of serums as you age. Serums are very important for you to incorporate into your skincare routine. Start light, with Vitamin C, as you get older, move on to retinol serums,” she recommends.
AoS Recommends: Manuka Natural Night Shift Serum, Uso Ageing Serum Moisturiser
Step 4: Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise!
Dr. Molaobi explains that as we grow older and with temperature changes, the skin gradually loses moisture.
“Moisturising is essential for all seasons, day and night. It’s essential to replenish your skin with moisture. Mantjiu lists the following benefits for moisturising;
- It helps balance your skin natural oil production,
- Provides a base for your makeup,
- Keeps your skin hydrated, and
- Reduces the appearance of blemishes,” she adds.
AoS Recommends: Manuka Saving Face Moisturiser, Uso Active Day Cream
Step 5: Don’t Forget The Sunscreen!
“This is my favourite tip. Always make sure you choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 and above,” says Mantjiu. “I’ve observed that some people with darker skin tones such as mine, don’t see the importance of wearing sunscreen because when they think of sunscreen they just think ‘but my skin doesn’t burn in the sun, the truth is – it does. You just don’t see it,” she emphasises as she adds that pigmentation is a result of not wearing enough sunscreen, premature aging, and several other skin conditions. “Applying sunscreen isn’t just about physically seeing the effects now. If you don’t take care of your skin, you surely will see the results in your 50’s and 60’s”, she warns. Here’s a quick tip, layer your sunscreen. For example, apply your sunscreen, moisturiser, primer, and foundation – all of these should have SPF. Should you get confused about which one comes first, start with the lighter texture and end with the thickest,” she concludes.
Investing in good quality products for your skin will have you reaping good results in the long run. I know it can get tedious, especially after those long days where you just want to go straight to sleep, skipping that bedtime skincare routine but the longer you build up that habit, the more natural it will come. In a nutshell, do what’s right for your skin’s health. Your future self will thank you.
AoS Recommends: Manuka Natural Sun Protect
You can find Dr Claudia Moloabi Dermatology Practice at 559 Farm Road ( Cnr Simon Vermooten and Lynnwood Road), Die Wilgers, Pretoria , Suite 12, Ferncrest Netcare Hospital, Rustenburg and Suite D, Victoria Clinix Hospital , Mafikeng