When the harsh winter weather sets in, and we’re spending more time indoors, it’s no surprise that our skin can start to look a little dull. If you’re feeling that you’re in danger of losing your natural glow, check out our ideas for ways to help your skin regain its beautiful radiance.
#1. Cleanse regularly
A strict cleansing ritual is the number one essential cited by beauty experts and film stars. Being disciplined and following a daily facial cleansing routine will help to prevent your pores from becoming clogged with make-up and other debris that builds up during the day, or even while you’re sleeping. It will also make your moisturizer more effective as it will be easily absorbed, rather than being blocked by layers of cosmetics.
#2. Exfoliate
If your skin is going to glow, exfoliation is a great place to start. Either use one of the many products on the market or, if you prefer to avoid chemicals, try making your own exfoliator from storecupboard ingredients, such as coffee, apples, oats, and even milk. Whether you choose a commercial or a DIY option, do it often, but do it gently to avoid irritation and redness.
#3. Facial massage
Once you’ve exfoliated, it’s time to nourish your skin. Gently massage and relax your facial muscles with some natural oils. Notice the difference that makes, let yourself smile, and see your glow starting to return.
#4. Deal with stress
Cortisol is also known as the stress hormone. Too much cortisol has a detrimental effect on many of your body’s functions, and over time can ravage your skin. Start to take this seriously and develop your techniques for stress management. Try yoga, start to practice simple breathing and mindfulness exercises, or simply make time to soak in a luxury bubble bath. There’s truth in the old saying: if you want to radiate, start to meditate, but it can also be true that to radiate, you need to luxuriate!
#5. Practice shiatsu
One of the main reasons for dull skin is that toxins are not moved out and cleared efficiently by the lymphatic system. Lymphatic drainage can be improved in a few minutes per day, by using simple-to-follow shiatsu techniques, which will also smooth away tension from your facial muscles and help prevent fine lines and wrinkles.
#6. Retinol- a secret weapon
The benefits of retinol in terms of brightening the skin, encouraging cell turnover, reversing the signs of aging such as fine lines, are backed up by decades of studies. Heavy-duty concentrations are prescribed by dermatologists, but there are plenty of over-the-counter products are available from virtually every well-known skin-care brand. While it is undoubtedly effective, be aware that results can take anything from 3 – 12 months to be visible, so you’ll need to follow the directions for use and be consistent.
#7. Hydrate
Extreme temperatures and windy weather can play havoc with your complexion – causing it to dry out and even become flaky. So this is the season to hydrate and rehydrate. In the morning, after exposure to the cold, and especially at night, applying the right moisturizer and nourishing creams (including eye-creams), will help to create a protective barrier.
#8. Keep moving
However, glowing skin can’t be achieved simply by taking action on the outside. To improve circulation and aid detoxification, be ready to step up your fitness regime. Running, Crossfit, gym sessions- you’ll not only experience the effects on your energy levels and stamina. Your skin will also feel the benefits of the increase in oxygenated blood circulating through your entire body. Just don’t forget to remove makeup before your workout, and to cleanse your pores afterward, to remove toxins and give your skin the best chance to clean itself, and glow with health.
#9. Optimize your nutrition
In winter, a ‘hibernation’ diet of comfort foods, loaded with sugar and other carbohydrates, can soon take its toll on the skin. Opt instead for foods rich in healthy oils, such as salmon, avocados, and nuts. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as tomatoes which contain powerful lycopene, can even protect the skin against UV damage (a risk in winter if you’re at high altitudes). Most vegetables contain useful amounts of vitamins and minerals, but cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, sprouts, and kale are superfoods packed with nutrients that will help the skin. No need to give up your favorite treats, just increase the proportion of healthy, skin-friendly options you choose.
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