There are a lot of misconceptions around skincare – especially during winter. We asked The Beauty Garden’s Danielle to bust some of the most common winter skincare myths. Here’s what she had to say…
Myth: “Sunscreen is only for summer.”
See also: “I don’t need to wear SPF because I don’t burn, I tan” and, “My makeup has SPF in it.”
JUST NO!!! This is all incorrect. You still get damage from UVA and UVB in winter – on cold days, cloudy days, in the snow and even inside when sitting next to a tinted window. Yes, that’s right, all year round, which means you should always apply a minimum SPF30+ to 50+ every single day. This is the best (and most affordable) way to reduce premature ageing for the rest of your life. If you’re outside often you will need to reapply every two hours, but how your skin is protected for will vary depending on the type of sunscreen you use.
Myth: “Moisturizer and/or SPF makes my skin oily.”
Then you’re not using the right ones! There are so many options out there now, so keep at it to find what suits you.
Myth: “I should exfoliate more in winter.”
Too much exfoliation can harm your skin and cause an imbalanced pH level, resulting in an over or under production of oils (and all sorts of other complications, like hypersensitivity and an impaired skin barrier). Avoid damaging your protective layer – the lipid barrier/stratum corneum – by only exfoliating once or twice a week and be sure to use a gentle exfoliant. You can (and should) do this all year round. You can boost these results when you see your therapist for a resurfacing treatment, be it a chemical peel or a dermabrasion.
Myth: “I can get the same results from less expensive brands online or at the supermarket because these products claim to have similar ingredients.”
When it comes to skincare, you’re paying for the quality of the ingredients – specifically, where and how they have been sourced and manufactured, their molecular weight (i.e., how they penetrate and work within your dermal layers and alongside other ingredients). High quality skincare brands go through rigorous and regular testing and trials to ensure best possible outcomes. It’s science, really! But if you have something that’s cheaper that you love, and notice it working, keep using it. There is a fine line between effective branding and effective skincare. Do your research… or, at the very least, have a facial with a professional and don’t be afraid to ask us questions. You’re paying us for our knowledge and expertise, after all.
Myth: “I don’t need to drink as much water during winter.”
Did you know that when we become dehydrated, our hydrolipids can’t bind to water molecules properly and therefore aren’t firing or working at the rate they are intended to? To do what their built to do!? 90 percent of us don’t drink enough water, so make sure you sip on it all winter long. In fact, if you’re reading this, go have a sip right now – then come back and finish this article while your body thanks you for rehydrating. To further hydrate your skin, try keeping a glass of water next to your bed or using a humidifier to improve the amount of moisture in the air.
A few other tips…
- A strong healthy barrier is the goal.
- Change your pillowcase, often. We shed dead skin, we drool, we have makeup and skincare residue, animals… Need I say more?
- Always wash your makeup off.
- If you’re confused about the order of operation when layering skincare, always go thinnest to thickest.
- If you’re reading this, go book yourself a facial for the winter season. Your skin will thank you!
Check out Danielle’s tips for preparing your skin for the winter months, right here.