A word from a cosmetologist: everything about facial skin care in winter

Among the main makeup trends is beautiful, healthy skin with a slight blush, as if glowing from the inside. That is why celebrity makeup artists advise paying special attention to caring for their clients’ facial skin, and not just to hiding imperfections with the help of decorative cosmetics.

Since frost and piercing wind will soon reign in the yard, we will dwell in more detail on skin care in winter. Dermatologist and cosmetologist Yulia Borzykh will help us understand this issue, debunk myths and give all the necessary answers.

Yulia Borzykh, candidate of medical sciences, dermatologist, cosmetologist, member of the expert council of DMK International , member of the UADV

How does the condition of the skin change in winter?

It is very important to understand that our skin reacts sharply to changes in various external factors - temperature, wind, amount of sunlight, air humidity, etc. Therefore, our patients note excessive dryness of the skin in winter, its peeling, redness or irritation, loss of elasticity, appearance fine wrinkles, and in many you can notice manifestations of cold allergies.

Based on this, what products should definitely be included in your seasonal beauty routine?

It is imperative to use nourishing creams, antioxidant and immunomodulating serums, oils that imitate the secretion of the sebaceous gland and contain Omega-3.

However, I would also like to draw attention to creams with SPF: they are extremely important in winter. Ultraviolet rays are reflected with greater intensity from snow (up to 80%) than from sand (only up to 35%). Do not forget that the cream must be applied 40-60 minutes before going outside.

Is it possible to use thermal water or facial spray in winter?

There are conflicting opinions in the literature about thermal water. I would recommend sprays that contain not only minerals, but also vitamins, because some do not work without the other. Such sprays moisturize, nourish the skin and promote transdermal delivery of creams.

What components to look for in nourishing beauty products? Which ones are best to avoid?

I advise using high-quality professional cosmeceuticals with transdermal serums and creams, which are prescribed by a cosmetologist, taking into account the patient’s skin condition, complaints and medical history. The main ingredients will be beta-glucans, as they have:

• healing property;
• protective (powerful antioxidants also reduce the level of negative effects of UV rays on the skin);
• accelerate skin restoration and strengthen capillaries;
• moisturizing effect (promote the penetration of moisture into the skin, stimulate the synthesis of hyaluronic acid).

Shea butter – this ingredient is great for helping with skin irritation and frostbite; triglycerides contained in the oil help strengthen the barrier functions of the skin, which is extremely important in winter.

I would like to highlight the avocado. One of the main benefits of this fruit is that it is rich in vitamins and minerals. Due to the high content of vitamin E, avocado has amazing moisturizing properties and accelerates skin regeneration.

Panthenol – promotes healing and moisturizing of the skin. Safflower and sunflower seed oils are used as antioxidants, enhance regeneration and relieve inflammation, hydrate the skin well and eliminate flaking and dryness.

When caring for your skin in winter, many experts advise avoiding Vaseline and paraffin.

What cosmetic procedures should you focus on in winter?

Topical enzyme therapy procedures always remain relevant, which will help “resume” the work of one’s own enzymes, improve metabolic processes in the skin, microcirculation and lymphatic drainage.

Winter is the time for peeling. I would note those peels that perform the task of “removing and rebuilding.” Rebuilding the skin means restoring all its functions, especially pH, and stopping the process of moisture loss. After procedures aimed at cleansing and strengthening the skin, stimulating blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, you can begin administering injectable medications. For example, with hyaluronic acid and amino acids to stimulate the synthesis of collagen and elastin, and, as a result, increase skin turgor.

I would like to draw attention not only to local procedures, but also to the oral administration of biologically active substances. My favorites are plant-based essential fatty acids that are not produced in our bodies: Omega-3 and Omega-6. Omega-3, 6 and 9 increase immunity and stamina, support the function of the nervous system, and also improve the health of skin, hair (accelerated growth) and nails (protection from brittleness and splitting). Omega-7 fatty acid is not essential, but its deficiency leads to the development of a number of pathologies. Omega-7 regulates the level of skin hydration, affects elasticity, and has an excellent wound healing effect.

Vitamin and mineral complexes will help cope with seasonal troubles not only for the skin, but also for the body as a whole. And last but not least, take pre- and probiotics.

How does facial care differ in the winter season for girls with different skin types?

I would focus more not on skin type, but on its condition. Therefore, if a patient has acne, we will treat acne, paying attention in winter to good skin hydration and additional protection from cold and wind. In patients with rosacea, professional treatment and home prescriptions will be aimed at maintaining adequate microcirculation and protection from adverse environmental factors.

Oils, creams, sprays and serums - how to use and combine these products in your routine?

All of the above formulas are a daily necessity. After gentle cleansing of the skin (gel or milk should not change the pH of the skin), transdermal serums are applied. After this, the skin is irrigated with a spray with vitamins and minerals, add a few drops of oil that imitates the secretion of the sebaceous gland (necessary for caring for dry and dehydrated skin in winter), and apply the cream. In the morning and afternoon, do not forget about cream with SPF. You can apply concealer and oil-free foundation on top. And your skin is dressed!