Discussed by Cuan Kemp, Head of makeup at Kryolan SA
“As winter makes its dramatic entrance, many of us find our summer glow fading fast. And the dry, dull complexion synonymous with South Africa’s harsh cold months begins to creep up on us. But it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. Cuan Kemp, Head of Make-up, Marketing & Social Media at KryolanSA, offers insight and tips on developing a skincare and make-up routine that keeps skin healthy and glowing throughout the chilly winter months.
Why is winter tough on the skin?
“Cold temperatures and dry air draw moisture from your skin, dehydrating it. Add the effect of cold wind and indoor heating, and you can be left with dry, cracked and pasty-looking skin. In addition, during the cooler months, many of us drink fewer liquids because we tend to be less thirsty. This aggravates the dehydration and skin fatigue.”
What is Skin Fatigue?
“Skin fatigue is caused by long term stress that can be lifestyle induced – through things like poor diet, excessive alcohol, and smoking – or as a result of external factors like pollution and UV radiation, but it is very often a result of a combination of these factors. Stress causes your adrenal glands secrete cortisol – a stress hormone – which compromises blood flow and can damage the collagen in the skin, aggravating the aging process.”
Top Tips for Healthy Winter Skin
“The first step in keeping your skin healthy during winter is to stay well hydrated from the inside. Drink plenty of water to keep skin cells plump and fresh. As tempting as it may be to wash with hot water during the cold months, it can strip your skin of natural oils and lead to spider veins and vasodilation. Apply your moisturiser immediately after cleansing to trap as much moisture as possible.
“It’s easy to forget sunscreen during winter, but don’t be fooled. The sun is just as damaging when it’s cold. Choose a good quality moisturiser with a high SPF to avoid sun damage and the early onset of wrinkles. A vitamin D boost does wonders for your soul during winter and naturally, one would want to find a sunny spot to soak up the warmth. Just ensure your skin is safe.
“It’s essential to remember to exfoliate your skin twice a week. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and keeps the skin looking fresh and radiant. Use rich and nourishing skincare to keep the skin hydrated and guarantee a glowing complexion.
What products should we add to our make-up bag this winter?
“Hydrating primers offer a superior moisture injection to the skin, making sure that make-up glides on smoothly and provides a glowing finish. Dewy finish foundations also accomplish a lustrous, satin sheen.
“Illuminating fluids are also a great addition to your winter make-up kit. It can be applied to the entire face under your foundation or even mixed into it to give your skin a radiant glow. Together with your healthy winter skin tips, these products offer the ultimate indulgence and care that your skin deserves during the harsh winter months.”
