Weather the winter storm with a new approach to skincare

If you find the change of season affects your skin, you’re not alone. A drop in temperature, harsh winds and humidity can all adversely disrupt skin health, leading to dehydration and dryness. While you might look at upping hydration to stave off taut or flaking skin, switching to heavier rich creams is not always the best route.

Skin expert Eavanna Breen, owner of Dublin’s Akina Beauty and Laser Clinic explains to Magazine how we should tackle seasonal skincare.

‘I don’t think people are aware of how the weather changing can affect their skin, and very few Irish people change their skincare routines at all between summer and winter, the way they should. We must change the products we use and how we treat our skin to combat the various elements that come with the colder weather,’ Eavanna says.

Eavanna’s clinic has a unique personalised moisturiser system called Skinmade, and she has these three tips for keeping your skin looking healthy and glowing this winter.

Her first tip is to switch cleanser, and she explains why. ‘Our skin’s outer layer has an acid mantle that is made up of complex fluids and lipids (oils) that are secreted from the oil glands. This layer acts as a protector of the underlying layers of the skin, while the naturally-occurring bacteria help to maintain healthy skin.

‘When we cleanse our skin with harsh products, we can upset that balance and take away some of the protection. When your skin has an impaired acid mantle, it will be

more vulnerable to damage, inflammation, and acne. It is crucial to get the balance right. A good oil cleanser is going to be the best option here for achieving a healthy lipid level. Overly ‘soapy’ or too-harsh cleansers often won’t allow this.’

Eavanna recommends introducing a serum to your winter regime to combat dehydration and boost skin comfort.

‘I would advise looking for a high-performing serum that contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. It delivers hydration, protects important natural oils in the skin, and strengthens the lipid barrier so it can better guard itself against the cold environment,’ Eavanna adds.

Her final step is one most people skip because it’s winter but it’s important yearround for younger-looking skin and protection. ‘It is essential to wear SPF daily, even when cloudy. The damaging UV rays can still penetrate the clouds and age the skin, so although the sun isn’t visible, it affects the skin. The sun’s UV rays penetrate the skin