Skin Hydration

Avoid a dull, thirsty and cracking winter complexion. Here’s how to boost hydration

By PALESA VILAKAZI

Winter is around the corner, and will wreak havoc on your skin. Even if you use a heavyduty moisturiser or layer your creams, you can still end up with dull or peeling skin. As the temperature drops, so does the humidity in the air, and this causes dry skin. The solution to all your worries is simple – proper and thorough hydration. No matter what your skin type is, the importance of hydrated skin cannot be understated. Your goal should be to provide your skin with enough nourishment so that it stays hydrated all day.

WHAT CAUSES DRY SKIN?

Although some women naturally have dry skin, other factors contribute to a dehydrated complexion. These include a change in season, environmental irritants like the sun and pollution, not drinking enough water as well as using harmful or moisturestripping products. Additionally, as you age, your skin slows down the production of many beneficial substances, such as ceramides, that naturally help to keep your face hydrated. Ceramides are lipids that make up the skin’s natural moisture barrier, and also help retain it. “As we age and are exposed to water and sunlight, the ceramides decrease. The skin then starts to show signs of dryness and ageing. This is why it becomes more and more important to make sure that you treat your skin with an extra dose of hydration,” says Dr Portia Gumede, dermatologist and owner of Dr P Aesthetics Lifestyle Centre.

WHY SHOULD YOU CARE ABOUT HYDRATION?

A hydrated skin looks plump, healthy and youthful. Having an adequately hydrated face will improve the skin’s elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, hydrated skin also combats