Is your skin in need of a serious moisture boost?
AT this time of year dry skin is a common problem. The combination of bitterly cold weather and central heating can strip the complexion of moisture, leaving it feeling tight and uncomfortable.
People often assume that the answer is to use a heavier moisturiser. However, one of the new generation of hydration boosters may be a better solution.
These innovative products work by enhancing the benefits of your existing skincare regime. They often contain hyaluronic acid and soothing plant extracts to plump up and nourish skin without leaving it feeling greasy.
At the clinic we are also seeing an increasing demand for treatments that boost longer term hydration, such as injectable moisturisers.
These work on a deeper level than topical products and give immediate results, improving elasticity as well as making skin look radiant.
With another cold snap predicted this week, there’s no better time to read our guide to keeping your skin hydrated during winter.
LIFESTYLE TIPS
The first thing to do is to look at the skincare you are using and see if any of the products contain ingredients that might irritate your skin.
Dry skin can be sensitive so choose fragrance-free and natural products when possible. Avoid anything that contains tea tree or citrus oil as these can inflame skin and steer clear of skincare that contains benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or alcohol.
Look for ingredients such as urea and glycerine, which will help skin retain moisture, and dimethicone, a silicone that when used in skincare can boost moisture levels.
Hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, peptides and plant stem cells are also all good for dry skin. Be gentle when cleansing as scrubbing can cause further irritation. Exfoliate once a week to unblock pores and get rid of dead skin cells but use a gentle glycolic product rather than a scrub.
Try L’Oreal Revitalift Laser Renew Anti-Ageing Glycolic Peel Pads, £14.99 (boots.com), which are double-sided so you can choose a stronger or lighter peel depending on your skin type.
Eating a balanced diet is essential for well-nourished skin. A poor diet that is lacking in essential vitamins and minerals will make dry skin even worse so eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables every day.
To hydrate skin from the inside out, fill your diet with foods that are rich in essential fatty acids such as omega 3.
The best source is oily fish so opt for salmon, mackerel and sardines.
SKINCARE SAVIOURS
Simple Water Boost Hydrating Booster, £6.99 (boots.com)
Designed to tackle signs of dehydration such as dry, tight or dull-looking skin, this lightweight formula contains essential minerals and plant extracts that lock in
moisture and provide long-lasting hydration.
To use, add a few drops to your moisturiser or apply directly to very dry areas before applying a hydrating day cream.
Sanctuary Spa Wet Skin Moisture Miracle, £8 (sanctuary.com)
Infused with apricot and avocado oil, this innovative moisturiser is designed to be used on wet skin after showering.
Once it’s applied you then pat skin dry rather than rinsing it off and get ready as normal. The clever formula traps moisture into the skin resulting in immediate and lasting hydration.
REN Skincare Flash Hydro-Boost Instant Plumping Emulsion, £34 (marksandspencer.com)
This instant plumping treatment should be applied to cleansed skin before you apply a moisturiser.
It contains hyaluronic acid that draws water into the skin, leaving it nourished and soft.
Apply to cleansed skin, then add a few drops of water and massage it in gently.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Eye Awakening Gel, £12.99 (boots.com)
This water-gel formulation locks in hydration and progressively releases it throughout the day, leaving the delicate skin around the eyes hydrated and supple.
Bioderma Atoderm SOS Spray, £14.49 (feelunique.com)
One of the most common problems with dry skin is that is feels itchy and uncomfortable.
In fact it’s estimated to be a problem that affects one in three people in the UK. However, scratching leads to more inflammation so it’s vital to get it under control.
This soothing spray provides immediate comfort and helps to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier while keeping itchiness at bay for six hours.
AT THE CLINIC The moisture jab
While injectables are most commonly used to add volume to the face, they can also deliver a serious moisture boost.
Profhilo is a hyaluronic acid filler that is designed to hydrate from the inside out, smoothing skin, softening lines and boosting radiance.
The 10-minute treatment involves having five tiny injections on each side of the face, just under the surface of the skin. No recovery time is needed and there is no pain or bruising. The hyaluronic acid then gradually disperses through the surrounding areas over the following weeks, flooding the skin with moisture and plumping it up.
Two treatments, a month apart, are recommended for best results and Profhilo is suitable for use on the face, neck, decolletage and hands. Results last six to nine months. From £200 per treatment.
For advice on cosmetic surgery, consult your GP. For more of Lesley’s tips, visit lesleyreynolds.com