Winterproof your Skin & Hair ...

This time of year can wreak havoc with skin and the delicate protective mantel on the surface of your skin can be compromised by the harsh winds, cold, air conditioning and indoor heating. This can lead to dry, rashy skin, rosaccea and more sensitivity than during other seasons. Not just the skin on your face either, hands can get extremely dry and cracked and sufferers of dermatitis and eczema can also experience worsening of their conditions. So here are a few tips to help you through the next few months of cold, cold weather......

1. Hot water, harsh detergents, soaps and chemicals strip the skins natural lipid barrier on the surface, leading to exposure and moisture loss. Avoid these at all costs and ensure you use a creamy cleanser, soap free shower gels (avoid Sulphates) and soap free gel cleansers. Products to try; Epicuren Sulphate free Shower gel and Epicuren Apricot cream Cleanser. Both of these are The English Rose’s top sellers and actually treat the skin, do not contain alcohols and will instantly leave the skin feeling fresher and softer.

2. Moisturise – Of all the elements of a home beauty regime, this is the one that people stick to the most. Even if they miss out cleansing and exfoliating, this is a top priority for most. However, this is the time of year that we need to review our moisturiser and assess whether in fact, it is doing a thorough enough job during the cold days. Just as we change our clothes for every season, so we must change our moisturiser and serums. Now is the time to switch to a richer based moisturiser and for those that have very sensitive skin, one that also contains healing, soothing ingredients. As most of you already know, The English Rose’s philosophy, is to avoid chemicals at all costs, so when you have a free moment have a look at the ingredients listing on the back of your lotions. If you have sensitivity right now and dryness and you can see a whole list of chemicals, it is time to swap it for a chemical free one.

3. Lips – chapped lips are one of the most common problems during the cold season and with the popularity of lip gloss and lip balms these products actually make the condition worse. So if you keep applying lip gloss to moisten your lips...stop! The petro-chemicals in these products draw out the natural oils in your lips, leaving them drier. To improve chapped lips always use a lip balm when outdoors (with an spf) and ensure it has only natural ingredients, such as Shea Butter. Avoid any with petroleums....yuk!

4. Hair – This is a time when your hair can become drier and brittle and changes in humidity can play havoc with your locks ! If your hair is coloured, then your hair can become more porous, so use a colour protecting/enhancing shampoo and conditioner, followed by a spritz of shine spray to add a gloss to your hair on gloomy days.

5. Static and frizz are major problem this time of year due to a lack of moisture, so use specially formulated shampoos & conditioners that de –frizz and smooth and ensure you also use a smoothing serum. THESE ACTUALLY WORK BRILLIANTLY! So, if you used to be like me and not really believe in expensive shampoos and serums.....you must try them ! Ask Chloe next time you are in for some extra special treatment and she will smooth you all out to perfection ! In the mean time, I can highly recommend Control Freak Serum which is anti-humidity, anti frizz and a super straightener ( my personal favourite) ...

6. Hands & feet can become terribly dry this time of year. Hands can split and crack and feet get sadly neglected and thrust into boots and shoes never to see the light of day until may!! To protect hands avoid any unnecessary washing and always dry thoroughly. Use a barrier cream to protect your skin when cleaning and always wear gloves if using any form of chemical cleaner. As with lips, some hand creams that contain petroleum’s can temporarily leave your hands feeling softer but they do not actually treat the skin. These creams act like cling film and the effects soon wear off, leaving you having to put on more and more hand cream. Opt for a healing, aromatherapy, petroleum and paraben free lotion, to treat hands and feet. Use regulary , especially at night when your skin heals and repairs. REMEMBER....if something says Organic or natural on the label this does not necessarily mean chemical free.

7. Home Remedy for dry or itchy skin. Whilst running a medium warm bath, add dried milk powder under the tap. Use a good few handfuls until the bath is milky. The add 3 tablespoons of honey and swirl until dissolved. Relax for about 20 minutes and your skin will be soothed and soft. A beautiful, chemical free way to soothe your winter skin. Enjoy!

We would love to hear any of your home remedies that you use or any questions you may have for our skin experts....

Stay safe in this snowy weather and remember...it won't be long before the snowdrops and crocus's will be popping up all around us !

Hope to speak to you very soon....

xxx Joanne.