3 SHED THE DEAD CELLS

When it comes to dry, rough or dull skin, ramping up your exfoliation is the most important tweak you can make to your winter routine, says Tom Ogden of Alpha-h skincare. ‘When the old cells on the surface of the skin start dehydrating, they don’t shed as quickly as they should and create a physical barrier that skincare struggles to penetrate. Exfoliation not only removes those dead cells but encourages the production of new cells, which release important oils and ceramides as they rise to the surface, helping skin to keep itself well moisturised.’ But do remember that dehydrated skin is on high alert and build up your exfoliation gently, starting with once a week and increasing to two or three times at most, swapping granular exfoliating scrubs for gentler alternatives. WHAT TO TRY For skin that has not yet tipped from dehydration into sensitivity, a mild liquid exfoliant will get rid of dead cells without causing further issues. Ren Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic [1, above], £25, uses willow bark and lactic acid, while Bobbi Brown Remedies Skin Brightener No.42 [2], £30, contains sugar derivative glucosamine to encourage faster cell turnover. For an even gentler approach, a super-fine powder will lift away dead cells little by little – try Alpha-h Gentle Daily Exfoliant [3], £34.50.