Winter skin and skin boosters

Winter can be hard on the skin. Cold wind outside and central heating inside both pull moisture from it. Many of my clients in Addlestone and Weybridge tell me their skin feels tight, flaky and dull by the end of November.

Here is why that happens and where skin boosters can fit in.

Why skin struggles in winter

Your skin has a natural barrier that holds water in and keeps irritants out. In colder months a few things work against it:

• Cold air holds less moisture, so skin dries out faster
• Central heating creates dry indoor air
• Wind can leave skin red and chapped
• Hot showers feel lovely but strip natural oils
• Less daylight and more time indoors can leave skin looking tired

When the barrier is weakened, skin loses water more easily. Fine lines can look more obvious and makeup may not sit as well.

How skin boosters can help

Many skin boosters contain hyaluronic acid, which attracts and holds water. Profhilo, Seventy Hyal and Jalupro Super Hydro all work on hydration in the deeper layers of the skin. Over a course they can help skin look plumper, smoother and brighter.

Polynucleotides such as Plenhyage XL Strong work in a different way. They support the skin's own repair processes and may help improve texture and resilience over time.

Skin boosters do not replace a good moisturiser. They work alongside your skincare by improving the skin from within.

Is winter a good time to start

For many people it is. There is less strong sun, which makes aftercare a little easier. Starting a course in autumn or early winter also means your skin should be looking its best by spring.

That said, skin boosters can be done at any time of year. If you have a big event coming up, it is best to plan ahead. Most courses involve two or more sessions a few weeks apart and results build gradually.

Looking after winter skin at home

A few small changes can make a big difference:

• Swap foaming cleansers for a gentle cream or milk cleanser
• Use a richer moisturiser with ingredients such as ceramides or glycerin
• Keep showers warm rather than hot
• Wear SPF every day, as UV still reaches your skin in winter
• Use a humidifier if your home feels very dry
• Go easy on exfoliating acids and scrubs

Aftercare in cold weather

After a skin booster treatment, avoid very hot baths, saunas and steam rooms for a couple of days. Wrap up warmly but avoid rubbing scarves against freshly treated skin. If your skin is especially dry or chapped on the day, let me know, as we may adjust the timing.

What to expect

Most people have some redness, small bumps or mild swelling after treatment. These usually settle within a day or two. Bruising is possible and can take a few days to fade. Results vary from person to person and depend on your skin and lifestyle.

If winter tends to leave your skin feeling dry and tired, you are welcome to book a free 15-minute consultation with me in Addlestone. We can talk about whether a skin booster would suit you.