WORDS FRANCESCA SPECTER
They say there’s no bad weather, only bad clothing – and you’ll benefit from applying this old adage to your skincare as the seasons change. Thanks to the threefold challenges of chilly temperatures, harsher winds and central heating, the skincare goalposts have shifted – and it’s time to refresh your regime if you haven’t already. The beauty industry has also recognised a growing demand for tailored, weather-appropriate skincare, with season-specific facial product launches doubling in recent years.
‘Winter weather affects the protective skin barrier, leaving it drier, duller and more susceptible to acne breakouts,’ says consultant dermatologist Dr Nick Lowe. ‘The background pigment (ie the golden tan you waved goodbye to last September) is also reduced, making problems such as redness, acne and age spots more pronounced.’ Changing your washing and moisturising routine is key. Here’s how to mitigate the effect winter has on your skin.