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Skin Care - Winter vs SummerAs the weather changes, our body requires different clothing to protect it. So does our skin. The varying climatic conditions of winter versus summer affects our skin and how we need to take care of it. Why? During the summer months the temperatures are warmer and our skin becomes exposed to the elements. Our bodies produce sweat in an attempt to cool off from the higher temperatures and humidity levels. During this process, our skin becomes oilier and prone to irritation. We may also attempt to cool off by swimming which in turn exposes our skin to the sun, as well as harsh pool chemicals and salt. Hence, the skin may become dry. Tips for protecting skin during summer months
Excessive sweat and oils clog pores so if possible use a cooling cleanser containing salicylic acid to keep skin blemishes under control. Cleansers made with eucalyptus or menthol extracts feel good and help keep pores clean and open. Use lighter moisturising products as your skin is not as dry in the summer months. After swimming, always rinse your body with cool water to remove traces of chlorine and salt. A facial mask applied once a week will deep-clean pores and help skin retain its natural pH balance. Use an atomiser to keep skin cool and moist.
The colder and drier winter months put our skin through a beating as well, causing it to chap, be excessively dry, sometimes irritated. Covering ourselves in clothing for warmth protects most of our skin, however we often fail to protect our faces. The running of heaters and dehumidifiers indoors saps most of the moisture from the air, adding to the changes caused to our skin. Here are some tips for protecting skin during the winter months I generally change some of my skin care products in the winter as the cooler, drier weather alters the condition of my skin. A denser moisturiser really nourishes my skin, and keeps it hydrated and moist. Apply a sunscreen, moisturizer or make-up with a minimum SPF of 15 regularly because you are just as likely to sunburn in the winter as you are in summer. Lips also need protection with lipstick or lip balm with sun protection. Stop licking lips!
Add moisture to inside air by turning on a humidifier. If you don't have one, place a pan of water near radiator or heat source. Having plants indoors help moisturise the air. Take shorter, warmer showers and baths. Natural oils in the skin are stripped away by hot water and being submerged in water for any length of time. Adding moisturisers to bath water helps, but take care when getting out as the bath can become slippery. Toners with no or low alcohol levels are recommended and use less often after cleansing. Gently exfoliate using a washcloth or scrub to remove dead skin cells and stimulate skin, followed by a lavish moisturiser. In the colder, drier winter months, our skin requires additonal moisture so always remember to hydrate by drinking lots of water and also increasing your diet with omega-3 fatty acids which are found in more oily fish such as salmon and mackerel. Follow these tips and keep your skin looking radiant - whether in the warmer, more humid months of summer, or the cooler, drier winter months. Go to Top of Page - Skin Care Winter vs Summer
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Your skin always requires protection from the effects of ultraviolet radiation so apply sunscreen, wear sun protective clothing such as a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade whenever possible. Avoid the sun when it's strongest, between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.
Moisturise. Use emollient-based soaps, lotions and luxurious creams to moisturise your body. My hands are often dry and require additional nourishment during winter, so a tube of sumptuous handcream in your handbag is a great idea. Slather it on after washing hands to maintain soft and smoother hands. 
