Protecting Your Skin Barrier This Winter
Protecting Your Skin Barrier This Winter: Why Cold Weather Demands Extra Care
As the temperatures start to fall and central heating systems start to kick in after the long summer, our skin can be seriously affected by the dramatic environmental shift that occurs during the transition from autumn into winter.
Low humidity levels, drying indoor heating and crisp, cold air can all negatively affect the skin barrier. Today, I want to explore why the skin barrier is so important, some of the signs that your skin barrier may need a bit of extra TLC, and how to build a winter skincare routine that works for you.
The Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Skin Barrier
Your skin barrier works hard every single day to protect you from harmful pathogens and environmental toxins. As well as keeping harmful things out, it also prevents water from escaping your body, which ultimately enables it to function properly. So, it's safe to say that your skin barrier plays a vital role in maintaining your overall health.
Why Does the Skin Barrier Become More Vulnerable During the Winter Months?
Your skin barrier is a thin wall of skin cells, which contain lipids including ceramides, fatty acids and cholesterol. Despite being tough, it also faces numerous threats each day, some of which can cause damage.
Spending time in environments that are too dry is one of the most common causes of damage, which is why the winter weather can very quickly start to take a toll on your skin. Other factors that can also make an impact include contact with pollutants and irritants, excessive sun exposure, and over-exfoliation.
Signs and Symptoms of a Compromised Skin Barrier
There are numerous signs that your skin barrier may be struggling. You may notice that your skin looks and feels dry and scaly, which is also likely to feel itchy and uncomfortable. Other signs include the development of discoloured and/or rough patches of skin, areas of inflammation and/or sensitivity, and acne.
How To Support Your Skin This Winter
Now that we've explored how the cold weather and central heating systems can impact our skin during the winter season, let's take a look at a few practical tips and tricks that will help you to give your skin barrier the TLC it deserves.
Introduce Gentle Exfoliants into Your Skincare Routine
If you're experiencing dryness and rough patches, incorporating a gentle exfoliator into your skincare routine can help to restore your glow and even out your skin's texture. Over-exfoliation can cause further damage, so it's really important to choose a gentle product that doesn't irritate your skin.
Choose Hydrators Designed to Strengthen Your Skin Barrier
A good hydrator is a key component of a great winter skincare routine. Many skin-barrier supporting hydrators are formulated with ceramides, which are waxy lipids that can be found in high concentrations in a healthy skin barrier.
Occulsive moisturisers can provide additional support to the skin barrier, as they are formulated with ingredients which leave a thin film on the surface of the skin to prevent moisture loss. One of the most common ingredients in this type of hydrator is petroleum.
Other ingredients to look out for in moisturisers that can support your skin throughout the winter months include hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which are humectants and work to attract moisture and lock it into the skin barrier.
Expert Guidance From The Pemberley Clinic's Skin Experts
If you're looking for some expert guidance on how to improve your skin, restore your glow and boost your confidence, you may benefit from a one-to-one consultation with us here at The Pemberley Clinic. During your consultation, one of our skin experts will ask you about your skin and help to formulate a bespoke plan that's designed just for you.
For more information or to book your appointment, please visit the booking page on our website, email booking@thepemberleyclinic.co.uk or call 07936 906688.