Tips to save your skin this winter

Embrace the cooler season with self-care and celebrate winter as a time of renewal.

As the seasons change and temperatures plummet, winter’s icy grasp can leave more than just a chill in the air — it often wreaks havoc on our skin, hair and nails.

If the budget doesn’t permit for a day at the spa, there is plenty you can do at home to maintain that glow between treatments.

Skin-saving tips for the season

Skip the steamy showers and instead opt for warm water paired with gentle body washes rather than drying bar soaps. After bathing, pat skin dry and apply a nourishing moisturiser while still damp to lock in hydration.

For the face, use a reparative moisturiser rich in ceramides or hyaluronic acid to counter the harsh effects of dry air and indoor heating. And don’t forget to hydrate from within — drink plenty of water and ease up on caffeine, which can act as a diuretic.

Rejuvenating at-home facial

Start with a gentle cleanse and exfoliation to slough off dead skin cells and promote healthy turnover. Follow this with a replenishing lotion or serum, and apply a resurfacing mask to boost renewal. Rinse off with warm, damp towels and finish with your favourite moisturiser.

Weekly exfoliation is key during winter months, as the body’s natural cell regeneration slows down with age and seasonal changes — leading to dullness, blocked pores and dryness if not addressed.

DIY body care rituals

Create your own indulgent body scrub using a base of 30g of bath salts and a few drops of essential oils, adding a touch of coconut oil to form a paste.

Apply in gentle, circular motions starting at the feet and working your way up.

After rinsing in a warm shower, apply lotion or body oil to slightly damp skin to seal in moisture.

This simple ritual not only removes dead skin cells but also prepares the skin to better absorb hydration – essential during colder months.

Hands and feet deserve love too

Winter is especially tough on extremities. Frequent handwashing, exposure to the elements, and long hot showers all contribute to cracked, peeling skin. A comforting at-home remedy? Mix half a cup of coconut oil with one cup of brown sugar and a few drops of warming essential oils like cinnamon, clove or vanilla. Store in a jar and use to exfoliate feet and hands. Follow with a rich oil-based moisturiser.

Peppermint oil can invigorate tired feet, though it may be best saved for warmer weather.

If you’re short on time or simply want to relax, a foot soak is as easy as warm water, a scoop of Epsom salt, and a few drops of your favourite essential oil in a basin — instant bliss on a budget.

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