We all know what we need to do to protect our skin in the summer, but did you know that cold temperatures and a bracing breeze can also play havoc with skin? A winter skin care regime is therefore just as important – especially if you’re heading off to freezing climates for some fun on the slopes during ski season.
Here we’ve given advice on how best to care for your skin.
Apply sun protection
Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean your skin won’t burn in the sun. In fact, the impact of UV radiation significantly increases at higher altitudes. Apply sun protection before you hit the slopes and reapply every couple of hours. If you do suffer from a bit of burn, aloe vera infused creams will soothe the area. Refreshments high in vitamin C will also help, and it may be worth giving your skin a break by taking a day off the slopes and exploring the local area instead.
Defend against windburn
As you cruise down a slope at high speed, the wind can be equally as damaging as the sun; redness, dryness, burning and irritation are all signs of windburn. To prevent, ensure you cover as much of your skin as possible.
Using chemicals on windburned skin is a definite no-no, whereas creams that are developed from natural ingredients, such as aloe and shea, like our ever-popular Aloe Super Hydrating Moisturiser, are perfect for re-hydrating the skin.
Keep hydrated
Speaking of hydrating, the climate in the mountains is low in oxygen and exceptionally dry, which will cause a considerable change to your skin in a very short space of time. The best way to counteract this is by layering your skin products. Start with a cleanser, then add your hydrating moisturiser, before finishing with sun protection – this will help to lock in your skin’s natural moisture.
Re-invigorate skin and body
The low oxygen while at high altitudes can also make your skin appear dull. In addition to applying a hydrating moisturiser, the easiest way to get life back into your skin is to ensure you also hydrate with your body’s ultimate friend – water.