The cold snap can play havoc with our skin.
Harsh winter winds and dry indoor heat causes dry patches, cracked and even bleeding skin. Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can also flare up during these cold winter months
While slapping on additional moisturiser can help, you can do more to treat your skin.
Here are some tips to protect your skin and keep your complexion healthy and comfortable until spring arrives:

AVOID LONG, HOT SHOWERS
While a hot bath or shower can feel great in the winter, it can strip your skin of important oils. When possible, use warm or lukewarm water instead, including when you wash your face or hands.

USE A WINTER MOISTURISER
The same old moisturiser you use the rest of the year may not cut it during cold and dry months. That said, thicker doesn’t mean better when it comes to moisturisers. If you’re prone to breakouts, you want to stay away from petroleum or oil-based formulas. Look for one that contains lipids instead. Alternatively, if your skin is severely dry, you might try adding an emollient moisturiser that seals in moisture, followed by another moisturiser on top.

DON’T FORGET THE SUNSCREEN
Sunscreen isn’t just for hot summer months. Winter sun, combined with glare from the snow, can seriously damage your skin. Apply sunscreen to your face and hands (if they’re exposed) about 30 minutes before you go outside. Reapply frequently if you stay outside a long time.

SAY NO TO TANNING
Many people think a tanning bed can provide the vitamin D they’re lacking during dark, short, cold days, but in fact, the damage a tanning bed can do to your skin far outweighs any temporary boost. Both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation cause cell damage that can lead to skin cancer.

EXAMINE YOUR SKIN
Whether you’re a sun worshipper or vigilant about sun safety, it’s important to examine your skin regularly and take note of any new moles or growths, and any changes in existing growths. Lesions that change, itch, bleed, or don’t heal are also alarm signals. Even if you’ve carefully practiced sun safety all summer, it’s important to continue being vigilant all year round.

ASK THE EXPERTS
Seeing a skin specialist or a beautician is a good investment. They can analyse your skin type, troubleshoot your current skin care regime, and give you advice on the skin care products you should be using. They can also advise you on specialised products you might need for specific skin concerns.

SEARCH YELLOWTOM FOR A BEAUTICIAN IN YOUR LOCAL AREA.