Winter can wreak havoc with our skin. The harsh cold winds and central heating can leave the skin dull, dry and therefore oily as it tries to counteract dryness with excessive oil production.
The icy cold weather can also cause trauma to skin, leading to premature aging and fine lines - so it’s essential that we pay extra attention to our skincare routine during these colder months.
Dr Sophia has rounded up her best advice for maintaining winter skin – keeping it young, fresh and glowing.
Hydration
Since we’re not as hot and we’re not as noticeably parched in the winter months compared to the summer, we often don’t drink enough water. It’s essential to remember to do this, and try to eat water-dense foods like grapefruit, broccoli, tomatoes, bell peppers, watermelon and celery for slow releasing hydration throughout the day.
It’s also a good idea to drench the skin in hydrating moisturisers at night-time before going to bed. It allows the skin to fully absorb it throughout the night when it’s in repair mode.
Peptides
Collagen peptide supplements help boost muscle growth and repair – helping to counteract the trauma that winter weather causes to the muscles in the face.
Foods such as eggs, milk and plant sources (soy, oat, chickpeas, beans, peas, and lentils) are high in natural peptides and do wonders for muscle repair, so it’s wise to add more to your diet during the winter, says Dr Sophia.
Vitamin c
Vitamin C is a science-backed topical solution that helps slow down the signs of early skin aging. It also helps to improve the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and acne and helps to brighten dull skin – perfect for the winter.
Dr Sophia insists that vitamin C is a key lotion that should be a skincare essential and it can be found in most beauty stores with options to match all budgets.
Sun block
It’s a well known fact that the sun is still there, even if it isn’t shining, so it’s essential to continue to use sun block and SPF in your skincare routine. It goes without saying that UV rays are harmful for skin and cause premature aging, so prevention is always better than cure says Dr Sophia.
Retinoids
The retinoids are a class of chemical compounds that regulate epithelial cell growth. Essentially, they help repair the skins cells and any damage caused by the winter weather.
They should be taken before bed mentions Dr Sophia, as they will make skin sensitive to sunlight (and as standard, SPF should be worn the following day.)
Regular facial treatments
Despite how cold and glum it can get outside, make sure you take the time out to get a professional facial at least once every one to two months says Dr Sophia.
Medical grade facials provide endless benefits to skin cell growth and repair and should be considered a winter essential. The WOW Facial is a six-stage treatment that works through several layers of skin with full cleansing, peeling, WOW Fusion with Intradermology Solutions, light therapy, mask, and protection – available at Wellness by Dr Sophia.
About Dr Sophia – A master in the artistry of skincare
Dr Sophia is a UK General Practitioner and medical aesthetics specialist, trained at the world-renowned Harley Street Institute in London.
Her treatments are bespoke - tailor-made for the individual, and her commitment to professional development ensures that her treatments follow the latest in state-of-the-art aesthetics Technology and techniques.
Contact
Email: info@wellnessbydrsophia.com
Tel: +44 (0) 7960906330
Social: @wellnessby_drsophia
Location: Oakley Surgery, Addington Way, Luton, LU4 9FJ