Your ‘skinsulation’ guide
Just like your wardrobe, your skincare routine needs a seasonal refresh
as we bid goodbye to sundowners and golden-hour sunlight and say hello to crisp autumn days and pumpkin spice lattes, it’s not just our wardrobes that need updating. A change of season means tweaking your skincare routine in order to tackle the repercussions of those months of sun damage, while simultaneously preparing your skin barrier for the colder days to come. It doesn’t have to be complicated, though, thanks to these four simple steps.
1 Switch up your cleanser
As your full-coverage foundation replaces your skin tint, it’s also time to swap your exfoliating face wash, which can strip the skin of moisture, for a more hydrating option. Take a tip from J-Beauty and choose a product that nourishes as it cleans. The Gentle Hydrating Cleanser from cult Japanese skincare brand Hada Labo Tokyo is fragrance-free, so it won’t irritate sensitive winter skin, and it’s packed with hyaluronic acid to ensure you’re adding moisture at every stage of your routine.
2 Get de-puffing
If you associate summer with antihistamines, you’ll be glad the hay-fever months are behind you. But your face could still be suffering the effects. In order to de-puff, encourage lymph drainage and generally treat yourself, we recommend a facial massage. If you’re not on a budget, book yourself in for a session at FaceGym, which specialises in facial workouts. Or, if you prefer to give it a go yourself at home, try following one of facialist Abigail James’ step-by-step massage tutorials on YouTube.
3 Rehydrate religiously
It’s likely those warm summer days have left your skin in need of serious hydration – and now here comes the central heating to remove any last remaining moisture. While it’s tempting to reach for heavy creams, they can be harder for your skin to absorb if it’s dry or dehydrated, so it’s more effective to layer up lighter products. With its clear, watery texture and multiple types of hyaluronic acid, Hada Labo Tokyo’s Super Hydrator Lotion is formulated to rehydrate from within. Applied before your moisturiser, it’s like a refreshing drink for your skin.
4 Protect your skin barrier
Harsh weather can cause skin irritation, which is easier to prevent than treat. Before you put on your thermals, wrap your skin in a protective cream. Look for moisturisers with the words ‘repair’ or ‘barrier’, and ingredients such as ceramides.