As soon as the central heating is switched on and the weather becomes colder, dry or mature skin often begins to feel tight and uncomfortable. Fine lines or flakiness can make an appearance, a signal that we need to step up our moisturisation game.
Skin that is prone to rosacea, or sensitive skin that acts up in harsh weather, will really benefit from a good barrier against the elements. The right moisturiser will help to protect and counteract these problems.
Oily or balanced skin types might be fine with serum or a light moisturiser but it’s a whole different story if your skin is dry or mature. Thick, creamy moisturisers are my preference, as they provide a physical block against the elements while keeping moisture sealed in.
Estée Lauder Resilience Lift Firming/Sculpting Oil In Creme Infusion is my latest love. My heart gave a little jump when I unscrewed the lid of this dense, thick cream. I get ridiculously excited about rich creams; this one is almost solid, and it only takes a tiny amount to cover your entire face.
It reminds me of my two other rich moisturiser crushes, Darphin Fibrogene and Lancome Rénergie Multi-Lift Day Cream. They are expensive, but a jar lasts for ages and will keep your skin feeling comfortable and really soft, no matter the weather.
On the less expensive side, Nuxe Crème Fraîche de Beauté hits the spot for me. It is an extremely rich and comforting moisturiser. During the winter we get so little exposure to the sun in this country that it is not strictly necessary to worry about SPF in your day moisturiser.
The exception to this, of course, is skin that is extremely photosensitive. The ones I've recommended so far have no SPF, but if you would like a rich, winter cream with a high SPF, Marks & Spencer Formula Time Defy Age Replenish Calcium day cream SPF20 is an excellent choice.
Very sensitive and rosacea-prone skin will really respond to the barrier effect of a good moisturising cream. Eau Thermale Avène Extremely Rich Compensating Cream will not irritate; it is formulated to be kind and calm to even the most bad-tempered skin. If you react to absolutely everything else, this is the one to try. Similarly, Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm will protect without irritation.
Mix in a drop of facial oil if you would like even more moisture and let the wind howl. Your skin will remain happy and protected.
- amcdermott@irishtimes.com
- Twitter @aismcdermott
