We all know that winter can play havoc with our skin. With colder weather, central heating on and most of us drinking less water, moisture loss from our bodies is increased and can ultimately lead to poorly hydrated skin. One misconception is that if we slather on more moisturiser than in the warmer months we will increase hydration levels sufficiently and our skin will be fine. In reality, our moisturiser isn’t able to block moisture loss or prevent the effects of harsher weather conditions, environmental toxins and more.
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As we get older, it also becomes more difficult for our skin to retain moisture as we produce fewer molecules, amino acids and Natural Moisturising Factors (NMFs) to trap water, fewer ceramides (which hold skin cells together in the skin barrier to prevent moisture loss) and less of the humectant, hyaluronic acid (a sugar which binds to water to hydrate the skin).
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From osmotic pressure which occurs as a result of processes such as perspiration (sweating) to low humidity to our age and genes, right through to the lathering products we use and any skin disorders we may have, there are lots of reasons why we experience rapid moisture loss. So other than being mindful of lifestyle and natural factors, how can we ensure we are sealing in the moisture we do have and are adding through our moisturiser, for healthy, hydrated skin?
HOW TO SEAL IN MOISTURE THROUGH YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE
The easiest way to seal in moisture is by adding a layer of face oil over your moisturiser as the final step of your skincare routine. “How will a face oil help?” We hear you ask! Face oils containing fruit, nut and seed oils (like ours) are occlusive – a term meaning they form a protective seal to prevent moisture loss – and emollient – a term meaning they lubricate the skin and reduce evaporation. They also trap humectants but cannot act as a humectant.
While most face oils do not have too many hydrating properties, they play an important role in strengthening the skin’s barrier and enabling the products applied beneath to get to work at deeply nourishing and restoring from each layer of the skin. By applying last in your routine, face oil is still able to penetrate these products to support skin with its ingredients – whether this is aiding skin regeneration, boosting collagen production, reducing inflammation or smoothing skin tone – but no products can penetrate the face oil.
It’s important to note that an occlusive oil isn’t enough for skin, especially during autumn/winter – you still need to apply a moisturiser packed full of humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid daily for the additional moisture required to be trapped in.
*TOP TIP*
Massage a couple of drops of face oil into your cleansed face and neck following your moisturiser every night, including around and under the eyes, always applying on damp skin to trap moisture in. We recommend choosing an all-round moisturiser suitable for your skin type and dealing with any skin concerns or discomfort by using a serum. Discover our favourites for sensitive skin here: Best Natural Face Moisturisers.
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IS A FACE OIL PART OF YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE?
We’d love for you to tell us in a comment below!
