Although we’ve been lucky with the mild autumnal climate so far, it’s wise to be prepared for the thermometer plunging anytime soon.

Cold weather means 30% less moisture in the warm air, explains Sue Mayou, consultant dermatologist and Neutrogena advisor, which can lead to dry, irritated skin.

Central heating and wind can also contribute to losing your glowing looks, she adds.

“This fluctuation between cold and warm air means skin is constantly losing moisture, resulting in the dreaded dry, flaky skin.”

But never fear, you can fight Jack Frost by upping your skincare SOS and employing some toasty beauty tactics.

Seasonal perils

Snuggling up with creature comforts is the obvious reaction when the window panes start frosting up, but sadly this isn’t a good seasonal forecast for your skin.

“The excess use of central heating and having more hot baths are a contributory factor to chapped skin,” says Julie Brackenbury, Nurture skincare’s cosmetic nurse.

“Both increase moisture loss from the skin, and once compromised it can become sensitive and flaky.”

Winter diets can also play havoc with skin, as we enjoy more treats and stodge, and less fruit, veg and salad.

“Our eating habits change in the winter and, from a psychological perspective, we may not want to drink as much water as it may seem too cold! Instead we tend to go for hot drinks like coffee and tea which are diuretics and can contribute to dehydration,” Brackenbury explains.

“We also tend to cosy up at home and consequently, some people may drink more alcohol in the winter.”

Daytime saviours

Think about making small adjustments to your skincare regime each day.

“It’s not about making big changes to your routine,” Brackenbury assures. “Slip in a second hydration routine and you will see a big difference to your skin’s texture and glow.”

Be kind to winter-ravaged skin and steer clear of harsh, alcohol-based cleansers that can strip the skin of vital oils. Always pat the skin dry rather than rubbing vigorously and irritating the skin further.

For those who suffer with chapped hands and dry skin, take moisturising supplies with you in handy travel-sized tubes or leave a soothing tub on your desk at work.

“If you work in an office during the day it’s likely the atmosphere will be very drying; I’d buy a second moisturiser to pat on whenever my skin starts feeling tight,” Brackenbury advises.

You may not be able to see it but harsh winter sun can still contribute to damaged skin. Apply a sunscreen to your face and hands about 30 minutes before venturing out into the cold.

After-dark rescue

Use your sofa time to pay attention to your hands and feet. While you can wrap your body up from head to toe, it’s often your poor hands that suffer most from being exposed to the elements.

“Skin on this area is the thinnest past of the body and has fewer oil glands meaning it’s harder to keep them soft and supple,” says Caroline Frazer, Simple skincare expert.

Try wearing cotton gloves and a moisturising hand cream to soften them overnight.

Don’t spend the rest of the winter hiding your toes away in snuggly socks, sheepskin boots and slippers. Pull them off at the end of a long day and pay your tootsies attention.

The skin on your feet is thicker than anywhere else on the body so requires extra TLC to prevent them becoming dry and flaky.

“Your summer months moisturiser won’t cut the mustard when it comes to battling cold snaps. Up the ante and go for richer, creamier formulas that really work hard at nourishing the skin,” Frazer recommends.

Look for products that contain humectants (a class of substances including glycerine, sorbitol and alpha-hydroxy acids) that attract moisture to the skin.

Treat your feet to an occasional foot scrub and follow with a glycerine-enriched foot cream designed specifically to soothe your winter soles.

Winter radiance

Keep your skin glowing despite the extreme elements. Dr Tracy Mountford has this winter skincare advice:

• Protect your skin from the harsh weather by regularly applying a cream that contains glycerine to help lock in moisture, such as E45 Endless Moisture Derma-Restore (£4.59).
• Resist the temptation to take a hot water bath in winter; lukewarm water is better to prevent dryness.
• Bathing with a bath emollient especially designed to soothe and protect the skin is one of the most effective ways to hydrate the skin to keep it glowing.
• Regularly exfoliate your skin to get rid of dead skin cells and keep skin looking and feeling soft and beautiful.
• It’s a good idea to wear gloves whenever you can to protect them and stop them from drying out.

Tried & Tested

Get your skincare and coverage in one hit with the latest serum-enriched foundations. Our testers rate their complexion-boosting potential.

• Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Gel Foundation, £10.99 (Boots/Superdrug)

4/5

• L’Oreal Paris Visible Lift Foundation, £12.25 (0800 030 4032)

4/5

• Max Factor Ageless Elixir 2-in-1 Foundation + Serum, £12.99 (Boots/Superdrug)

2/5

Buy it now

Put some festive bling into your make-up routine with Estee Lauder’s limited edition Pure Color lipsticks adorned with Swarovski elements. Available in eight shades, £22 each, available exclusively at www.harrods.com while stocks last.

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