Date: 28/07/2014

Author: Ingrid Katz (Pure Aesthetics)

Winter skin... you don't have to just live with it

Dryness, flaky skin, redness, fine lines, dehydration; forget checking the weather report, these skincare symptoms are a sure sign that we're in the thick of winter.

And just as you wrap up in your winter wardrobe, so should you assess your skin care routine. Here are some tips on how to ensure your skin stays balanced through these harsher climate changes:

1. Don't over moisturise.
   It is a common misconception that lathering on more moisturiser will compensate for the drier air, however, this may cause clogging of the pores and congestion of the skin. Rather opt for extra exfoliation, using an enzymatic exfoliator such as our QMS Exfoliant Fluid or Dermabrasive Gel. This will lift those dead skin cells that are building up, and allow for better penetration of the vital nutrients in your moisturiser.
2. Know the difference between dryness and dehydration.
   A dry skin is both water and oil dry, while a dehydrated skin is only water dry. The difference is that a dehydrated skin will appear dull and lackluster and may sometimes be sensitive, especially in very dry climates. A dry skin will always feel dry and is more common in mature skins where ageing is also evident. Alleviate these concerns with a skin peel or facial treatment and ask your skin therapist to ensure you are using the appropriate day & night cream.
3. It's cold – but heat may be the enemy.
   By all means keep yourself warm, but remember that over-exposure to heaters and hot showers or baths will deplete your skins moisture reserves. Make use of a humidifier to compensate for the heat and don't bath/shower in water that's as hot as you can tolerate. Remember that heat will also exacerbate vascular concerns such as broken capillaries on the face. Protect and repair the barrier function of your skin with a moisturiser like our Dermaceutic Regenceutic Recovery Cream.
4. A booster is a must.
   Adding a booster treatment to your regime is a good way to compensate for the extreme weather changes we face. We recommend the QMS Collagens for a more sustained hydration levels, Optiphi Dermintense for optimal stimulation of collagen and elastin fibers and Dermaceutic Cream C25 for the ultimate skin vitamin cocktail.
5. Don't forget to drink... water, that is!
   Hydrating from within will certainly benefit the body and in turn, the skin. Starting the day with a cup of hot lemon water is, in our opinion, the best way to feed the body and skin, and kick start the day.

Welcome back Palesa!
How gorgeous is Palesa's baby, Lwandle Oratilwe Destiny? We welcome Palesa back from maternity leave & hope little Ora doesn't mind sharing her mom with us.

More of Jenna
As of July, Jenna joined Pure Aesthetics on a full time basis (previously 3 days a week). She's available to clients from Tuesdays to Saturdays (8.30am – 5.30pm).

It's getting crowded here, but we love it!