WINTER is fast approaching which means the dreaded winter itch is coming, too. Avoid dry skin this season and manage your skincare regime thanks to Susan Priestely from ASkin Solutions and Riverside Beauty Noosaville who has shared her top tips for managing winter’s itch.
Switch cleansers: foaming cleansers can dry the skin with their foaming properties, substitute with an oil-based cleanser. They cleanse the skin without stripping it of its protective acid mantle.
B good vitamins: when purchasing products include the ‘skin vitamins ADCEK’ in the list of ingredients. The B group vitamins are also great in helping to reduce an irritated skin.
Hot showers a no-no: void super-hot baths and showers. In an effort to keep warm we tend to lengthen the time of showers and increase the temperature -don’t! The heat will only add to the drying of your skin.
Scrubb-a-dub: exfoliate two to three times a week allowing for better penetration of moisturisers and products while removing flakiness – and get the maximum benefit from your product by apply to damp skin, enabling better penetration.
Get fishy: up your intake of oily fish containing essential fatty acids omega 3s and 6s such as nuts and whole grains, and flaxseed oil – these are a great resource help reduce the symptoms of stressed skin.
Topical treatment: if you suffer from winter triggered eczema, try a topical occlusive (heavier oil in water) cream with anti-inflammatory properties. If the symptoms persist, over the counter hydrocortisone cream .05 per cent is available off prescription and may be of benefit until the symptoms are relieved. Psoriasis can also be particularly troublesome in the winter months and treatment should be carried out in consultation with your doctor.
Allergy face: dry puffy eyes and blotchy skin is often the fault of the seasonal winds blowing irritants such as pollens around. An anti-histamine is the best way combat allergens, or cool compresses to reduce allergy symptoms.
Stay hydrated: maintaining hydration in the winter months is often overlooked in favour of warm drinks. Consider drinking herbal teas alternating with water at room temperature.
