Skincare: Your beauty tips for surviving travel in the winter

Looking fabulous in the winter time comes naturally – that is, if you have a spot-on beauty plan. Harsh winds, steamy showers, below freezing temperatures and indoor heating – these elements can suck the life out of your skin, body, hair and nails. Which is why the key to great skin in the winter is prevention. Don’t wait until your skin is extremely dry to implement your new beauty routine. Whether you are heading off on a skiing adventure or curling up under the fire with your family, here are our beauty tips to beating the winter blues and looking fresh in the cooler months.

Dull complexion:

Dehydrated skin cells rejuvenate at a slower pace – meaning there is a major build up of dead skin cells on our face. These dead skin cells hinder light reflection, thus resulting in a dull complexion. To get rid of this symptom, start your day off by using a creamy cleanser. Follow with a cream or oil instead of a lotion. Tip: Do not go straight in with an exfoliator, your skin may be sensitive from all of the different environment changes so this may cause unwanted breakouts.

Dry skin:

No matter what skin type you have, you will probably experience some dry flakey patches at some point during the winter time. When this happens, make sure you take extra care of your skin. Go in with an ultra-repairing face mask a couple of times a week. Swap your usual daily moisturiser for something more intense, such as a facial oil. Apply throughout the day when possible.

Lackluster strands:

Suffering from flat, dry, depressed hair? Conditioner is your answer. Use a product that contains silicones – this will ensure that the moisture will be kept in place whilst leaving hair super soft. Finish with a repairing cream.

Dry, itchy legs and arms:

This symptom is a result of too many hot showers and not enough moisturising afterwards. Ditch your usual body cream for something you have in your fridge. Draw yourself a spa-like bath by adding 2 cups of skimmed milk to warm (not hot) water. Soak for approximately 15 minutes. Once you’re out, finish by applying a repairing body cream.

Brittle nails:

Cold temperatures aren’t just hard on your skin – your nails suffer too. During the cooler months, dry nails often result in brittle, cracking nails. Which is why cuticle oil should be applied as often as possible. Don’t forget to wear gloves when you are outside too.

Chapped lips:

At any time, chapped lips aren’t cute and can be very painful. Take care of your lips this winter by applying a soothing mask followed by a nourishing serum. Use a lip balm (tinted if you prefer) whenever possible.

Shannon Gallagher