Out in the Cold

Published: 18-Dec-2013
Skin Care

Banish winter skin woes with our complete guide to skincare for the cold season

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The dark mornings, short evenings and frequent wind and rain of winter are all fairly depressing, but even more upsetting is the effect it can have on our skin; dull, dry complexions and flaky, itchy limbs definitely top our list of cold weather woes. Coupled with the dehydrating effects of central heating, winter plays havoc with our faces and bodies and requires some savvy skincare switches to see us through ‘til summer. Aurélie Tripet, Vichy Scientific Communication Manager, explains: “The skin is our first protection against external aggressions. Barrier function of the skin is ensured by a good quality of the hydrolipidic film, mainly constituted of lipids. During winter, when it is cold and dry outside, the integrity of the skin barrier function is impacted due to increased water loss from the epidermis to the external environment (transepidermal water loss). In addition, in order to prevent heat loss, blood circulation is diminished by vasoconstriction of blood vessels. This decreases the water intake from blood circulation, resulting in skin dehydration. The skin becomes fragile and lacks elasticity, the complexion is dull and you can experience tightness, redness and increased skin sensitivity.” Central heating can further exacerbate transepidermal water loss, leaving skin dry, dull and more prone to wrinkles. Izzy Jaffer, owner of the Institut de Beauté salon, advises: “Try to avoid having central heating on full – the optimum room temperature is between 18-21°C.”

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