Waking up, let alone getting ready in the morning can be a struggle during the cold, winter months. Having a good look at yourself in the mirror can feel like a chore, considering most of us haven’t even left our homes… thanks COVID.
None-the-less, we find ourselves walking around our house, eating way too much, patting our adorable pets for far too long, and checking ourselves out in every minor reflective surface we pass (Tip: Remove shiny toaster). The more I tend to see myself on the computer screen, or in a near-by mirror (mid-conference call that is), the more I’ve noticed my bare, natural face. I never knew my skin existed beneath the layers of unnecessary make-up and powder, that I have familiarised myself with for the past few years. With this revelation at hand, it was time to invest in my skin, and understand how to get that healthy glow in the winter months.
With the help and insight of dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts, we've found out what these perfect to-good-to-be-true skin goddesses seem to live by.
DRINK DRINK DRINK...WATER.
That’s right, Water. It’s time to replace that wine glass with a refreshing glass of H20 or Aqua or whatever you like to call it (we don’t judge!). We are all guilty of not drinking enough water, especially in cold weather. For some reason, cold drinks in cold weather, isn’t as appetising as a warm glass of wine! Go figure. However, water is one of the most affordable, rewarding and powerful contributors to your skin health and body. Water helps to flush out toxins, boost hydration into our cells and replenish cell-reproduction; meaning, your skin will naturally be more plump, lively and even GLOW.
HOW TO DRINK MORE WATER IN YOUR DAY
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Hold yourself accountable:Â Try carrying a re-usable bottle around with you or even pop it on your desk. Our brains are naturally more inclined to grab/drink/eat something that is easy, accessible and time efficient.
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Drink Tea: Now, we don't mean a sugar-heavy, Lipton Iced Tea - we mean something warm and soothing. If you find yourself struggling to drink plain water, try drinking water with your favourite herbal or fruity tea. Warm teas such as Peppermint are known to calm, reduce inflammation and curb sugar cravings... oh, and great for your skin of course! Duh.Â
HYDRATION STATION
We not only need to hydrate from within, the outside also counts (in skincare). Cold, dry, Winter air can often lead to a loss of moisture and hydration in our skin, leaving it to feel dull, dry and a little rough. Skin left in this state is easily susceptible to sun-damage, free radicals and bacteria. Therefore, investing in a thick, rich moisturiser can help to protect and lock in day-long moisture.
LAZY TIP: Find a moisturiser with SPF.
Kotia’s Hydrating Day Cream SPF15 is the perfect candidate, making it a simple one-step routine. With its thick and creamy texture, helping to prevent winter dryness and damage from sun-exposure. This day cream is one of Kotia’s most beloved and raved about products, making it the only moisturiser you need this winter. Try it, if you don’t believe us.
REST & RETINOL
We’ve all heard about it, but what is Retinol and how does it work?
Retinol is made from Vitamin A, it is known to promote collagen production in skin, which is responsible for reducing fine-lines and wrinkles. Simultaneously, adding plumpness to the skin and improving skin colour, tone and pigmentation. Essentially, Retinol is added into skincare to minimise premature aging and helps to maintain youthful, radiant skin.
Wow, what’s not to love?!
But how do we use it?
Retinol (Vit. A) can be found in concentrated facial serums and creams, however, it can be quite intense and harmful if applied incorrectly or to sensitive skin. Retinol should only be applied in pea-sized amounts to the face, any more than that, and you could wake up red like a beetroot.
Retinol is extremely potent; we recommend easing into the Retinol skin experience but using skincare that isn’t highly concentrated. The Kotia Regenerating Night Cream contains Deer Milk extract, which is high in Vitamin A (Retinol), folic acid and vitamins E and D3, making it the perfect evening skin multi-vitamin.
When should you be using it?
Retinol should only be applied in the evening, before bed. Reason being, it leaves skin renewed and sensitive. It is critical to wear SPF and Moisturiser the following day, as your skin could be highly sensitive to sun-damage and irritation.
Well, that concludes our trip down winter skincare, whether it be water for ultimate hydration, moisturiser for the soul or Retinol for anti-aging, they all play a part in making us and our skin feel good.
Keep hydrated, safe and happy.
