5 WAYS TO COMBAT DRY SKIN THIS WINTER

Although we’re all hoping Summer is close by, it’s not quite here yet. The cold weather is renowned for causing dry skin and worsening conditions such as eczema and rosacea. In the winter months, keeping your skin protected and hydrated is a challenge, as Vitamin D exposure is low. Winter is harsh on our skin, especially on our face as we can’t shield them completely from the elements.

We spoke to DR Ejikeme, an NHS Medical Consultant and highly experienced Aesthetic Medicine Doctor with extensive global training in Medicine and Surgery and, who is, Medical  Director at Adonia Medical Clinic – a medical and aesthetic clinic based in London that prides its self on offering the most advanced treatments in skincare and skin renewal.

We asked Dr Ejikeme to shares her top tips for keeping dry skin at bay this winter.

1. HYDRATE: to keep your skin supple, it is essential to re-hydrate constantly. Drink at least 2 litres of water per day and eat water-rich foods such as cucumber and grapes. If you’re a big fan of hot drinks like tea and coffee, try and swap them for de-caffeinated alternatives – caffeine is known for causing frequent urination and eventually, dehydration.

2. MOISTURISE: showering with a cream-based wash may feel moisturising, but it can strip your skins natural oils. Showers and baths can contribute to dry skin if you’re in there for more then 5-10 minutes, so keep it short and make sure you moisturise afterwards.

3. KEEP WARM: when you’re inside, try and make sure there’s no draughts and that the heating is on. Keeping your body at the right temperature will allow your skin to retain moisture, preventing dryness. When you go out in the cold, wear gloves and a scarf – it’ll stop your skin getting cold and feeling uncomfortable.

4. TREAT YOURSELF: facials are invaluable when it comes to your skin. Combining a mixture of masks, cleansers, scrubs and moisturisers, a facial is the full works, tailored specifically to your skin type. With the cold weather wreaking havoc on sensitive skin, taking the time to be pampered makes all the difference.

5. GO NATURAL: every day household products such as washing up liquid, bleach and air freshener are full of chemicals that are harmful if they come into direct contact with the skin. To avoid dry skin and irritation, swap your usual products for natural alternatives such as lemon juice or vinegar for removing stains. Always make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands.