As South Africans, we are lucky to have relatively mild winters — although the cool temperatures and low humidity can contribute to dry, winter skin. It's important to take special care of your skin during the cold months.

When winter arrives, you should change your skin care routine. Altering some of your routines to include nourishing and hydrating products can make a huge difference between a dull winter complexion and glowing radiance. You will know if your skin is suffering during the winter months because dehydrated skin has a dry, papery appearance, and the signs of ageing are accentuated.

“You can’t ignore dry skin,” says Ana Claude Roque, National Trainer at Decleor, a French specialist in Aroma-Skincare and supplier of Kievits Kroon Spa products. “It feels tight and has lost its suppleness. The complexion can become dull, rough to the touch, and in certain conditions extremely sensitive.”

“Dry skin is undernourished and lacks lipids, essential skin oils that form the membrane of your cells and help retain water,” says Roque. “Choose moisturising products that help to restore a healthy balance of vitamins, trace elements and mineral salts — these products are also essential for helping to boost the skin’s ability to resist harsh conditions by recreating the skin barrier.”

“It is important to rehydrate from the inside out by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day,” says Dr Mpofu, a dermatologist who consults for the Clinix Health Group, the largest black owned health group in the country.

“You should also make sure you use a good moisturiser that seals in and retains moisture. Chapped lips are also often a noticeable problem in winter — to combat this, use a highly moisturising lip balm that contains Vitamin E for good elasticity. Moisturises that contain urea, lactic acids or petroleum tend to retain the moisture in the skin.”

In addition, says Dr Mpofu, normal soaps should also be avoided as they have a high alkaline content, which further reduces the moisture in your skin.

Facials are vital

Paulette Tindle, Spa manager at Kievits Kroon Country Estate and Spa near Pretoria says facials are vital for this time of year, as they play an important role in helping to replenish moisture. “Kievits Kroon Spa’s Time Line facial is specifically designed to rejuvenate the skin’s suppleness, renew the texture and stimulate elasticity,” she says.

With the rest of your body covered up in layers of clothing, it is easy to neglect one’s face. Revitalise your skin by exfoliating twice a week — this removes the dead skin cells and leaves your skin feeling smooth and soft. A mitt or a body brush can be used just before you get in the shower — this massages your entire body and stimulates blood flow. Immediately after your shower or bath, apply a light oil or moisturiser, preferably one containing natural vitamin E. Vitamin E heals and regenerates skin cells.

“People also tend to deal with the cold weather by taking long, hot showers or baths — but hot water can actually wash away the skin’s natural oils, making it even more dry,” says Dr Mpofu. “Rather take warm showers or baths, which aren’t as damaging to the skin.”

Winter has arrived — but if you take care of your skin properly during the next few months, you won’t be left with dry unsightly winter skin when the summer months arrive.

Kievits Kroon Spa in Gauteng has introduced a 'Winter Comforts' spa package, designed to help you combat those winter ills before they take their toll on your skin. It includes a chilli hot chocolate and Lala African back, neck and shoulder massage amongst other delightful things. For more information, please visit www.kievitskroon.co.za.