Tips for managing sensitive skin this winter

With winter quickly approaching you might have found your skin’s suddenly turned on you - breakouts, dry patches, redness, or all of the above - sound familiar? Unfortunately, for our skin, low humidity and dry air, mean winter can wreak havoc on our complexions. So, combating these inevitable winter woes, calls for a change of skincare.

How winter affects the skin

First things first, in order to best treat your skin, you need to understand why it changes in winter. In the cooler months, rapidly changing temperatures - from heated indoors to cold outdoors - are harsh on the skin and capillaries. The prolonged exposure to wet weather also slows down cell renewal and circulation, as well as strips the skin’s barrier function. Overall, you’ll notice your skin just doesn’t operate like it used to – not to mention the effects of the winter ills and chills on skin performance! As your skin gets put through the ringer expect to see more dryness, redness and irritation than usual.

What your skin needs

Winter is all about retaining as much moisture as possible, so focus on a regime that is designed to nourish and moisturise your skin on a cellular level. Hydration is the number one way to combat sensitive skin during the frosty months as it provides a layer of protection from the harsh environmental elements. 

Look to cleaner, fragrance-free formulas to prevent further exacerbating any existing irritation.  Fragrance is one of the most common ingredients in cleansers and moisturisers, but unfortunately while it smells great, when paired with inflamed skin it's a recipe for disaster. 

If you’re on the hunt for something to help, Dr. LeWinn’s new Recoverëderm range is a one-stop sensitive skin shop. Free from sulphates, alcohol, parabens, fragrance and mineral oils this range is designed to work with your skin and give it the weapons needed to fight off winter inflammation. Dermatologically tested on sensitive skin, Recoverëderm boasts five products that when used together, will provide ultimate relief and support for distressed skin. Formulated to strengthen the skin’s barrier, Recoverëderm features ingredients designed to restore balance to the skin’s moisture levels.

The Recoverëderm range includes a cleanser, formulated to restore comfort and calm irritation. Toner mist, which hydrates and refreshes skin after UV exposure. Replenishing cream, designed to support and restore hydration. Repair balm, an intense overnight solution that creates a protective barrier to fight environmental aggressors. Finally, last but by no means least, a biodegradable sheet mask designed to instantly calm and soothe. All products are dermatologically tested and made with sustainably harvested Australian Marine Algae. 

As well as layering your skincare products, it's also important to layer up with the right winter woollies when venturing outside. The skin on our neck, hands and face is thinner than other areas of the body, meaning it is more susceptible to the harsh winter elements. Protecting these areas with non-synthetic fibres such as cashmere and merino, allows the skin to breathe, whilst still being protected. While tempting, also try to reduce frequency of super-hot showers and tone down the central heating. You can thank us later. 

drlewinns.co.nz.