Skin Problems and Rejuvenation

Why is my skin so dry + dull right now?

16 Jun

If your skin is looking dry, dull and flakey and feels taught, tight and not so terrific, it could well be due to the cooler, winter weather.  Don’t worry, these symptoms are typical of normal winter moisture loss that our skin experiences and turning it around can be simpler than you think.

Many of us suffer from chapped lips, scaley-looking skin, dry hands and cuticles, and generally have a tired, dull look to our complexion during winter.  So, returning to having skin with bounce and luminosity is what we’re after.

Here Bethrene McAuliffe, Aesthetician + co-owner of Mackay Acupuncture & Natural Therapies Healing Sanctuary and founder of her own natural skincare range shares her tips on how to nourish your skin and keep it hydrated, so it remains resilient through the chilly months and all our four seasons.

“Moisturising your skin both morning and night, is key.  When it comes to the face, choose a moisturiser that contains natural ingredients only (ie does not contain any of the “nasties” such as parabens, propylene glycol, formaldehyde, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), triclosan, synthetic colours and fragrances to name a few).  I would recommend you choose a good quality ethical brand whose moisturiser contains 5% niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – which has been clinically proven to increase the production of ceramides within the stratum corneum (skin’s barrier).
Having a strong, well performing barrier function is your skin’s key defence against dry, cold weather conditions, free radicals and pollutants.  The most critical component of the skin barrier is ceramides which form the protective layer that prevents moisture loss.  Niacinamide has been scientifically proven to also even skin tone, while stimulating collagen and elastin production – all key functions to achieve dewy, healthier, glowing skin.
Hyaluronic Acid is another ingredient that can make a huge difference to the condition of dry and dehydrated skin.  Hyaluronic Acid is found naturally in our skin, however levels can become depleted from time to time, especially as we age.  So, by increasing these levels with quality skincare products can be very beneficial for deeper hydration. 
Drinking plenty of water daily is critical to increase your internal hydration as well as external.
And of course, having a well-balanced nutritional diet goes without saying.
Something else that you can do to improve the symptoms of dry and dehydrated skin is to gently exfoliate the skin once a week.  Removing dead skin cells allows for better penetration of active and nourishing skincare ingredients and improves cell renewal.
Using a humidifier in your home during the colder, drier months can also be beneficial to supplement the dry air”.

 

 

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