Although South African winters don’t bring snowstorms, they do bring their own set of skin problems. Dry air, strong winds, and that sneaky morning chill can make your face feel tight before nine o’clock in the morning.
Your skincare routine should change with the seasons, but you don’t have to spend a fortune on products to get the effects you desire.
You can save money and provide your skin with the nourishment it needs by making the appropriate inexpensive substitutions.
According to Ascent Laser Aesthetics, the reason why your skin requires more attention in winter is because dehydrated skin is exacerbated by the severe winds, lower temperatures, and internal heating systems.
By further reducing the natural oils in your skin, the switch from cold, outdoor air to warm, interior warmth simply makes the issue worse. Increased sensitivity, redness, and irritation may result from this breakdown of the skin’s natural barrier, the above source adds.
Here’s how to winter-proof your glow without going over budget, using both DIY magic and skincare aisle finds.
1. Use a creamy cleanser rather than a foaming one.
Cleansers that foam can strip your skin. Replace them with mild cream-based cleansers, such as the Clicks Skincare Collection Hydrating Cleanser, which is ideal for sensitive winter skin and costs less than R100.
2. Repairing barriers with petroleum jelly
Vaseline Blue Seal soothes dry elbows, heels, and lips while locking in moisture. It’s a great alternative to expensive barrier balms.
3. Use SPF at all times, even during the winter.
The sun never goes away. Lightweight, non-greasy, and priced under R200, Nivea Shine Control SPF 50 is perfect for everyday winter wear.
4. Make your own masks
For a natural skin-plumping mask, mash avocado with honey. Yoghurt and oats are also excellent for soothing dry, irritated skin.
Also see: How to use rice water for skin care
