Australia may be experiencing unusually warm winter temperatures, but it’s still important to take extra care of our skin when heaters are switched on. In winter, the air is drier and spending more time indoors with heaters can lead to flaky and potentially irritated skin. Dermatologists recommend modifying your skincare routine for the winter season.
To combat the drying effects of heaters, it’s important to avoid sitting directly in front of them. They not only dry out the skin but also damage its protective barrier layer. If you’re already experiencing dryness or irritation, you can make small modifications to your skincare routine. These include using a thicker moisturizer than you would in summer, incorporating serums with hyaluronic acid for extra hydration, and using a gentle chemical exfoliant once or twice a week to remove any flakiness.
It’s important to choose skincare products that are suitable for your skin type. For oily or acne-prone skin, a beta-hydroxy acid like salicylic acid is recommended, along with an oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizer. Those with sensitive skin should opt for unfragranced products with fewer ingredients, while those with dry skin should look for products with glycerol, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to attract moisture and repair the skin barrier.
Even in winter, sunscreen is still necessary as the UV index can still be high in Australia. It’s recommended to use an SPF30+ or higher sunscreen daily. Don’t forget to take care of your hands and body too. Stick to shorter showers and use a soap-free body wash. Adding bath oil to your bath can help hydrate the skin. After bathing, pat yourself dry and apply moisturizer from head to toe. Handwashing is essential for hygiene, but try to use a soap-free wash and apply moisturizer afterwards.
Incorporating overnight hydrating sleeping masks and topical retinoids can also help with winter skincare. However, it’s important to wear sunscreen and consult with a dermatologist or cosmetic doctor before undergoing in-clinic skin treatments like laser, needling, or chemical peels. These treatments can make the skin more photosensitive, so it’s crucial to protect the skin from UV exposure.