Whilst basking in the tropical Jamaica sunshine last week, my mind wandered as the end of the holiday loomed – what would the weather be like on my return to the UK? It being autumn, I assumed cold!  Leaving a temperature of 29 degrees in the Caribbean behind for a chilly 10 degrees in London, I thought about my skin and how it would fare in the approaching winter months…

While we tend to cover our bodies, hands and feet in cosy knitwear, our faces are exposed to the harsh cold, wind and rain on a daily basis.  This weather can cause skin to become dry, sensitive and flaky. The most important thing you can do for your skin under these conditions is to control water loss (dehydration).  You may find that your skin needs a richer moisturiser at this time of year, which will protect your skin all day, and better penetrate the deeper levels of your skin.

Avoid using anything that will further strip moisture from your skin’s natural acid mantle layer, such as alkaline-based soaps or cleansers.  Using concentrated serums to protect and maintain moisture levels during the autumn/winter months is also crucial. Look for ingredients with essential fatty acids, safflower and primrose evening oils.  Products rich in humectants such as honey and sodium will help increase water retention in your skin too.   Another miracle moisture ingredient found in good skin care products is Hyaluronic Acid, which holds 1,000 times its own weight in water – that has got to be good at this time of year!

Virginia Williams Skincare Studio is well placed for people in Snaresbrook, Wanstead, Woodford Green or indeed anywhere in East London/West Essex.