WELLBEING & FITNESS

SKIN MIND

ONE in three people in the UK experience som form of winter depression – with women 40 pe cent more likely than men to suffer.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is caused by lack of bright light in winter.

Dr Victoria Revell, of the University of Surrey, said: “Many people find their body clock moving forwards during winter, making it harder to get up and get going in the mornings.”  BEAT THE CHILL Wake to light. Dr Revell said: “This provides the stimulus the body needs to help keep the body clock on track, by suppressing the production of the sleep hormones.” Try Lumie’s new Bodyclock Luxe 750D (£199, lumie.co.uk).

Helen Hanson, chair of the Seasonal Affecti Disorder Association, said: “Exercising outdoo helps. Natural daylight is better than any lightb WINTER can be particularly challenging for skin, according to dermatology nurse specialist Natalie Fisher.

She said: “Its main role is to act as a protective barrier with a layer of lipids, or natural fats, crucial for keeping moisture in and the dirt out.

“But cold air, central heating and hot baths can all contribute to a breakdown in that lipid barrier, leaving the skin less elastic and supple.”  BEAT THE CHILL Strengthen your barrier by regularly applying moisturiser.

Fisher said: “Consider using heavier, petroleum-based emollients during winter.”

If skin does break, try What Skin Needs Cracked Skin Cream (£8.99, whatskinneeds.co.uk)

Long hot indulgent baths and showers can irritate and dry the skin, said Natalie. Opt for warm water, pat dry and apply moisturiser while skin is damp.

Switch to emollient/cream washes instead of lathering or foaming products that strip away natural oils, says consultant dermatologist Dr Sharon Wong (drsharonwong.com).

Avoid harsh detergents. Fisher added: “For eczema or sensitive skin, choose specialist, fragrance-free laundry products.”