Experts share ‘key’ to ‘combatting blemishes and irritation’

Trinny Woodall reveals her morning skincare routine

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A significant drop in temperature, including low humidity, can cause dry and flaky skin. You might find your skin becomes irritated, and in some cases, you might struggle to apply make-up smoothly. Experts at The Body Shop have shared their top tips on how to “winter-proof” one’s skin, leading it to be plump, soft, and youthful.

The experts said: “Winter-proofing your skin is the way to combat irritation and flakiness. The key is to moisturise daily, and one way to enhance results is to apply moisturiser directly onto the skin after washing, which will trap a layer of surface moisture.

“If you’re venturing outdoors in the winter, always come prepared with a lip balm containing occlusives to protect lips from harsh winds. Emollients such as shea butter and coconut oil will work to soften and soothe chapped lips.”

The experts went on to advise looking out for products containing ingredients that help strengthen the skin barrier.

At The Body Shop, these include the Edelweiss Daily Serum Concentrate and the Vitamin C Glow Boosting Moisturiser. Similar products are also available elsewhere. 

The Edelweiss Daily Serum Concentrate contains peptides and edelweiss extract, which “help skin feel and appear stronger, smoother, bouncier and more resilient”, according to the experts.

Another winter worry is that spots and breakouts may appear due to overindulging on sugar during the Christmas season.

Excess sugar can cause the body’s blood sugars to spike, which causes inflammation throughout the body and results in more sebum, which can also cause skin to appear dull.

The experts said: “Excess sebum is typically known as a cause of acne, but this can be treated easily with the right facial wash.

“Tea Tree is a well-known ingredient for combatting acne and blemishes due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Using a tea tree facial wash once a day can oust grime and deeply cleanse resulting in clearer looking skin.”

The experts added that busy schedules over the winter months could mean that people’s skincare routines can get left behind.

They said: “Most of the Christmas period is spent socialising, especially during the New Year when we’re celebrating late into the night with friends and family.

“However busy we may be, it’s important that we’re still committing to our daily skincare regimen.

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“You should avoid sleeping in make-up – this can lead to breakouts and clogged pores. However, if this does happen then the best advice is simply to follow a thorough routine the following morning, including cleansing, exfoliating, applying a hydrating face mask, and finishing up with moisturiser.”

Busy schedules can also lead to a lack of sleep, which can cause bags to develop under the eyes.

Experts at The Body Shop said: “If you’re struggling to get a full night’s sleep over the holidays, one of the most telling signs can be your under eyes when dark circles and puffiness begin to appear.

“Sleep deprivation causes the retention of blood and fluid around the eyes, which is how dark circles come to appear.

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“One of the best ways to care for your under eyes is to incorporate a hydrating eye cream into your daily skincare routine. This can revitalise the sensitive skin around the eyes, and create a protective barrier.”

As well as the weather, alcohol can also cause dehydrated skin. The experts said: “Often referred to as hangover skin, this is when the effects of alcohol leave an impact on your skin after a night of drinking.

“A simple targeted routine the following morning can easily rectify any reminisce of a hangover on the skin.

“Ice can be incredibly helpful for relieving puffiness. Start by wrapping some ice cubes in a clean face cloth and gently dab on the skin to smooth out inflamed areas. A hydrating face mask can also help to bring back moisture into your skin when it’s feeling dehydrated from the night before.”

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