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THAT awkward and rather frustrating phase when your skin just seems to be doing its own thing – yup, it must be the changing weather. Different skin types have different ways of transitioning into a new season as they respond to alterations in temperature and humidity. Here we guide you through the do’s and don’ts for the three main skin types.
Dry skin
Dry skin can be sensitive and prone to redness. To calm and soothe it, you need to use rich, ultra-hydrating products to maintain moisture levels. During a change of season, skin may peel, feel uneven and be more intolerant. To alleviate these issues, try this:
- Lather on some cleansing oil. It is known to gently remove dirt while nourishing and soothing skin. Continue using facial oils until you’re comfortable with switching to cleansing creams when the weather is warmer.
- Apply a rich moisturiser for added nourishment and follow up with a facial oil. Apply the oil in patting motions to avoid moving the product beneath it.
- Follow up with a hydrating sunscreen formulated for sensitive skin.
- Avoid scented products as these may contribute to your skin’s woes because a volatile chemical reaction takes place for a fragrance to emit its lovely scent, and that sensitises the skin.
Oily skin
The good thing about cooler weather for oily skin is that it doesn’t exacerbate oiliness. And for a little while, oily skin may seem “normal”. When the weather warms up, oily skin tends to flake and become greasier and more uneven. This may be frustrating because these issues can be evident even through makeup. Try this:
- A hydrating cleanser is the first step. Not only does it hydrate as it cleanses, it also balances the skin. Follow this up with a gentle exfoliator once a week to manage the flakiness and unevenness.
- Next apply a hydrating serum and moisturiser. Look out for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and lactic acid. These draw moisture from the air and body to supplement the skin, meaning continuous hydration.
- Finish off with a hydrating sunscreen for sun protection. The sun’s effects make all skin issues worse, and the use of sunscreen helps combat problems.
- Keep your regimen minimalist, and if you’re going to try new products, introduce one at a time to help your skin adjust.
Combination skin
This skin type has elements of oily and dry skin, although it tends to be dehydrated, not necessarily dry. Incorporate more hydrating products, such asones suitable for oily skin. This skin also becomes patchy and uneven.
- Balancing skin products – those that balance the pH in skin – are more suitable as they offer a little bit of everything you need. Use a balancing face wash to cleanse your skin. You can add a drop of oil to a dollop of face wash for added hydration and soothing.
- Use a gentle exfoliator once a week to combat unevenness. Follow up with a hydrating mist, before applying a balancing moisturiser. You have the option of adding a light facial oil or continuing to the next step. Look out for products with vitamins C and E for brighter skin and added protection against the environment.
- Apply a hydrating sunscreen to seal everything and for protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Where possible, reapply sunscreen throughout the day – especially if you’re exposed to the sun. A hydrating mist can be used throughout the day to top up the skin’s hydration levels. Most come in various sizes, making it easier to pop one in your bag.
Although the skin on the body is more robust than facial skin, it does tend to get drier and feel slightly taut when winter turns to spring.
The secret to supple and more radiant skin is scrubbing or polishing it using a body scrub or a body brush. As soon as you step out of the shower or bath, quickly lock all that moisture in with a rich body cream or oil. Only swop out your richer body products once it’s warmer.
And yes, a long, hot shower feels so good and is rejuvenating but avoid really hot water and showering for longer than necessary. It will strip your skin and make it drier and prone to sensitivity.
