When the thermometer dips, even the most well-behaved complexions can react with symptoms including dryness, flakiness, redness and chapping. And it's not just the skin on our face that can suffer - if dandruff or an itchy, uncomfortable scalp sound familiar, read on...
The reason: In normal skin, sebum and naturally occurring oils, such as lipids and natural moisturising factors (NMFs), form a barrier which holds water inside the body for as long as possible. When skin is dry, this barrier is no longer intact, causing increased moisture loss. External factors, such as cold and windy weather, can cause dry, dehydrated skin, while internal factors, such as dipping in and out of centrally-heated environments, and using the wrong skincare products can also contribute.
The remedy: Drink more water, use a good moisturiser suited to your skin and exfoliate regularly to keep those cells turning over. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are important for supple skin so eat more oily fish, such as salmon, or take supplements to help from the inside. A saucer of water placed in a room will also help to keep moisture in the air.
CHAPPED HANDS AND LIPSThe reason: Our extremities are in the firing line when it's cold and windy; hands can be affected by the elements if not protected, while lips are especially susceptible to climatic change, and overuse of lip balms can actually perpetuate the problem of dry lips during winter. Clogging the skin sends chemical messages telling it not to produce natural moisturisers, because very little water is being lost.
The remedy: Wear a snug pair of gloves when outside and pop a pair of cotton gloves inside washing-up gloves when using water, detergent or chemicals. Always apply a good hand cream after using water. To keep lips nourished, apply a good protective salve, and if you're prone to winter cold sores, supplement your diet with the amino acid lysine.
SKI-SKINThe reason: While mountain air is clean and energising, skin still needs to be protected as UV light in high-altitude areas is incredibly powerful, even on cloudy days. When your face gets very cold, the lipids that keep it looking and feeling comfortable freeze, and water loss speeds up. Your rosy cheeks may look healthy, but they could actually be down to mini networks of burst capillaries (although this happens over time), or the result of drinking too much mulled wine!
The remedy: Wear a good moisturiser or petroleum jelly, as well as sunblock designed for use at high-altitude, especially over the parts of your face prone to redness or burning. Buy another small tube so you can carry it in your pocket, and don't forget to protect the delicate area around your eyes. Re-apply sunblock at lunchtime, and avoid drinking hot wine during the day if you suffer from flushing.
ITCHY, FLAKY SCALPThe reason: Changes in the weather can make the scalp dry, flaky and itchy and you may notice dandruff when you've never had it before. Every day, we lose dead skin cells from our scalp, and when more are lost than normal, they clump together, forming the white or grey flakes called dandruff. Central heating can also exacerbate the problem, drying out your scalp and your hair.
The remedy: Moisturise your scalp. Heat coconut or olive oil in a small bowl and massage through your hair, making sure it's rubbed into your scalp. Blast with a hairdryer to melt the oil, wrap your head in a towel and leave overnight. Wash as normal the next morning and you'll find your scalp free from dryness.
