We think nothing of switching our wardrobes for the winter months, but changing your skincare routine for winter is just as important. Cold weather can wreak havoc on your complexion, leaving it dehydrated, dull and making fine lines more noticeable. Central heating can dry and irritate skin even further, making conditions such as psoriasis and eczema flare up. 

Here’s how to combat some common winter skin complaints, such as dryness or changes in tone and texture, by rebooting your routine.

Cleansing is the first step to injecting some much-needed hydration back into your skin. Don’t strip that all-important barrier with harsh cleansers that can exacerbate dry skin – instead, use a hydrating oil or balm to gently melt make-up away. Double cleanse to ensure the face is thoroughly cleansed before the next step.

Fine lines and wrinkles can be more pronounced in winter due to dry air and cold weather dehydrating the skin. To combat this, it’s better to apply light layers of hydration rather than just one heavy cream. Today’s toners are more like the ‘essence’ stage of Korean skincare routines; essentially liquid or mist moisturisers that are the first hydration step post-cleanse.

The serum or ‘actives’ stage of your skincare is where you should invest the most money, to protect your face (in the morning) or to treat skincare concerns (at night). Use retinol for ageing or vitamin C to protect from environmental aggressors. This step is personal – to help you identify what your concerns are, ask one of our beauty experts.

To finish, look for a nourishing moisturiser, especially one that includes ceramides or promises lipid replenishing to help lift and sculpt. For the delicate undereye area, choose a targeted product to boost elasticity and firmness. Despite the lack of sunshine in winter, UVA rays still penetrate clouds, so it's important to use SPF daily as the final step in your routine.