Wondering how to protect your skin from harsh weather conditions?

Most of us have experienced a typical winter – cold winds and plummeting temperatures. Our skin is tough, but in harsh weather conditions it needs a little TLC to keep it in the best of health. We have compiled the best ingredients that your skin will love this winter, and some products that contain those ingredients to make your new skin routine easy to start now!

1. Hyaluronic acid

We’ve all heard of hyaluronic acid by now, but what exactly is it? This miracle skincare product has skyrocketed in popularity recently, and it’s easy to see why. Hyaluronic Acid is naturally produced in our own skin, which helps to build moisture and ensure our skin looks plump and youthful. The older you get, the less hyaluronic acid your skin produces, which results in dry skin with fine lines, texture and sensitivity.

Topically applied, it helps to hydrate the skin and maintain this hydration as a humectant, a substance that draws moisture to the skin. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, so it is a highly effective hydrating ingredient!

The perfect hyaluronic acid product to hydrate your skin over the winter months is the ever-popular Hydrating B5 from SkinCeuticals. This contains high levels of hyaluronic acid and Vitamin B5, which increases moisture levels and helps to bind moisture to the skin. With daily use, this gel helps repair tissue damage and nourishes skin.

2. Ceramides

Ceramides are lipids that help form the skin’s barrier and help skin retain moisture. Ceramides also help the skin protect against environmental aggressors like irritants, and pollution. Without the proper ratio of ceramides, the skin’s barrier can become compromised, leading to dryness, itching and irritation. A popular product containing ceramides is the Vital C Hydrating Repair Creme from Image Skincare. This rich, reparative crème quenches dryness, soothes redness and comforts irritated skin, so that you can ensure your skin is protected from the harsh Irish cold!

3. Shea Butter

Shea butter is a well-known moisturising ingredient that comes from the nut of the African shea tree. Naturally rich in vitamins A, E and F, it is widely used as a moisturiser or lotion but can also be incorporated into food preparation. When applied topically, this can aid the reduction of skin irritation due to its cinnamic acid content, while aiding the skin’s natural collagen production and hydrating abilities. A popular moisturiser we recommend is the Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturiser, containing shea butter, mango butter and avocado to help combat skin dryness without clogging your pores. Designed for all skin types, Hydrate is dermatologist-tested to be non-irritating and non-sensitising, so you can ensure that it’s been clinically proven to be safe.

4. Botanicals

Botanicals are natural plant extracts from herbs, flowers, and seeds which can work wonders for skin ailments. Today botanicals have become the future of the cosmetic industry, and their natural benefits have proven to work wonders on all skin types! A customer favourite is the Vital C Hydrating Facial Oil by Image Skincare, which not only replenishes moisture levels in the skin, but also contains those amazing botanicals such as sea buckthorn, moringa, and grapeseed oil help to visibly brighten tired skin.

5. Amino Acids

Amino acids are the building blocks that make up your skin- without them, you won’t get very far in your journey to good skin! They’re essentials in the synthesis of collagen, so by replenishing amino acid levels you are also boosting your skin’s youthful appearance! The Retexturing Activator from SkinCeuticals replenishes amino acid levels in the skin, helping to reinforce the skin’s barrier for healthier, more radiant skin.

If you would like to find out more about Winter Skin Care and Cosmetic Treatments, our medical team is available for complimentary 15 minute consultations in Hamilton.