SKIN SAVIOURS

SAVE YOUR SKIN THIS WINTER WITH THESE HYDRATING TIPS

The chilly weather increases the effects the elements have on your skin. Not only is it cold and windy outside, but inside heaters and fires are drying out the air and, in turn, your skin. On top of this, long hot showers also strip moisture from our hair and skin, so the solution seems obvious – more hydration and a little extra TLC!

Avoid dry, red, irritated skin with these top six moisturising tips from owner of Florette Skincare, Belinda Lo.

1. AVOID LONG, HOT SHOWERS

Even though all we want to do in winter is soak in a long, hot bath, Belinda says this is not ideal when it comes to your skin. “Hot water feels great in the winter, but it strips skin of its natural oils.” Try to put on a timer and limit your hot showers and baths. Belinda also recommends applying moisturiser immediately after your bath or shower, patting the skin dry, as it soaks in quicker.

2. TRY SKINCARE OPTIONS

“Avoid products that contain synthetic fragrances, alcohol and alphahydroxy acid, all of which dry out the skin,” says Belinda. Products containing oils can help to reduce your skin’s moisture loss. “For example, choose an all natural oil cleanser over harsh foaming cleansers to prevent stripping of your natural oils,” she adds.

3. INVEST IN A HUMIDIFIER

Help add moisture into the air with a humidifier and, in turn, help to prevent your skin drying out, advises Belinda.

4. UPGRADE YOUR MOISTURISER

Using a good hydrating moisturiser can prevent skin from drying and becoming rough and scaly. “A good one will also work to trap existing moisture and at the same time, draw moisture from the air to keep skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5,” says Belinda.

5. DRINK UP

Water, that is! It’s easier to drink your recommended dose in summer, but it’s just as important to drink a minimum of two litres a day in winter. “Our skin loses more moisture in winter. Staying hydrated is essential to maintain healthy skin,” adds Belinda.

6. REJUVENATE

Avoid lacklustre, dull skin by adding a rich serum into your routine. Belinda’s favourite is “a brightening serum that contains a good dose of vitamin C to help brighten and balance your skin tone”.

We’ve asked one of our favourite Sydney salon owners, Vaia Pappas, to share her favourite at-home body treatment:

GUASHA SKIN DETOX!

This ancient practice will help to purify the skin, allowing the elimination of toxins. You will be amazed at how you feel when you try this.

Simply mix aluminium-free bicarb soda with triple distilled vodka until it turns into a paste. I then love to add a couple of drops of grapefruit essential oil to the mix for added detoxing and lymphatic stimulation. I apply this paste all over my body on a dry skin and give a thorough massage for at least five minutes, then rinse.

It is preferable to do this in the morning as once the treatment is complete, the skin should see direct sunlight.

For more health hacks and skin tips, see @vaiabeauty on Instagram.