How to rejuvenate your skin after your winter vacation

Winter vacations are magical, with their snow-kissed landscapes and cosy fireside moments. But let’s be honest, the biting cold, dry air, and indulgent holiday treats can leave your skin feeling parched, dull, and in need of some serious help. Whether you’ve been skiing, snowboarding or simply having snowball fights, here’s how to bring your skin back to life after your much-needed vacation.

1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

The cold air during winter trips can dry out your skin, so it’s important to restore the moisture that you’ve lost.

For starters, you can do so by drinking lots of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Next, use a rich moisturiser to keep your skin soft and smooth, and treat yourself to a hydrating mask for an extra boost.

2. Gently exfoliate

If your skin is looking dull, it’s probably crying out for some exfoliation. Use a gentle scrub to remove dry, flaky skin and reveal a fresh complexion. Remember to be gentle and limit exfoliation to two or three times a week — you don’t want to overdo it.

3. Repair your skin barrier with a serum

The cold can leave your skin feeling sensitive and irritated. Look for products that soothe and repair, like those with natural oils or calming ingredients. A hydrating serum under your moisturiser can work wonders. Using a creamy, non-drying cleanser will also help avoid any further irritation.

4. Lather up in sunscreen

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can skip sunscreen. UV rays can still damage your skin, especially at higher altitudes or during snowy days when sunlight reflects off the snow. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors.

5. Pamper yourself with a facial

There’s nothing like a good facial to give your skin some love. Book a hydrating or soothing treatment, or create your own spa moment at home. Start with a little steam to open up your pores, then apply a hydrating mask and finish with a face oil for that extra glow. Popular post-winter options include oxygen facials, LED therapy, and deeply hydrating treatments.

6. Don’t forget your hands and lips

Cold weather can also take a toll on your hands and lips. Use a nourishing hand cream with shea butter or glycerin to keep your hands soft and smooth. For your lips, opt for a hydrating lip balm that can replenish dry lips. Exfoliate gently with a sugar scrub if needed.

7. Cool your eyes down

The skin around your eyes is especially delicate and often the first to show signs of dryness and fatigue. To combat this, apply an eye cream with hyaluronic acid to reduce puffiness and hydrate the area. For an extra boost, use cooling eye patches to de-puff and brighten your under-eye area, especially after a long trip.

8. Sleep on a silk pillowcase

Switching to silk pillowcases can make a big difference in your skin’s health. These pillowcases reduce friction, which helps prevent irritation and the formation of sleep lines on your face. They’re also gentler on your hair, reducing breakage and keeping your strands smooth. Plus, silk doesn’t absorb moisture like cotton, so your skin stays hydrated throughout the night.

9. Invest in a humidifier

A humidifier can bring back some much-needed moisture. Place it in your bedroom to help your skin stay hydrated while you sleep. Just remember to clean it regularly to keep it fresh.

10. Watch your diet and remember your vitamins

What you eat can make a huge difference to your skin. Fill up on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and nuts, to keep your skin plump and combat inflammation. Add a pop of colour to your plate with fruits and veggies full of vitamin C to brighten your complexion. Vitamin C and D are also excellent supplements as they play a vital role in skin cell metabolism.