As winter approaches, many of us are prone to cracked, chapped and irritated skin, not just on our face and bodies but also our lips, hands and feet. Putting on extra layers is not the only answer.
Here are a few useful tips that can enable you to look after your skin this Autumn:
• Continue to use Suncream (UVA and UVB protection) all year round and don’t forget your lips!
• Stick to lukewarm showers lasting less than 15 minutes per day and pat skin dry; hot showers strip the moisture and essential oils from the skin.
• Use a gentle exfoliator.
• Moisturise immediately after your shower and bath to help lock in moisture and oils.
• Stock up on vitamins and minerals with a healthy balanced diet incorporating fresh fruit and vegetables to boost your immune system. (Public Health England are also currently recommending a daily Vitamin D supplement to protect bone and muscle health).
• Stay hydrated by drinking the NHS recommended intake of at least 6-8 glasses of water daily.
• Take advantage of the shorter days and get a good nights sleep. Although there is no official figure, seven to nine hours sleep per night for an adult is considered to be sufficient.
• Minimise stress levels through time management, exercise and learning how to relax.
• Reduce alcohol intake and follow the recommended guidelines for your weekly allowance.
• If you smoke, consider Stoptober: It's not to late to quit smoking, research has shown if you give up nicotine for 28 days your five times more likely to quit!
Avoid sunbeds and sun lamps. Why not get your fix with an LED light treatment such as the Dermalux® instead, it has excellent results for skin rejuvenation, spot prone skin, pigmentation and inflammatory conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis and dermatitis. (Available @ The Aesthetics Hub).
• Your skin reflects what you put in and on your body, so lastly, reach for your cashmere and wrap up!