British Summer Time is officially over and the outside temperature definitely seems to have gotten the memo. Sure, there are still pockets of warmth in the sunshine, but early mornings and dark evenings have more chill in the air.
During this confusing fashion time (Is it time for boots? Are gloves overkill?), I’m transitioning my body care to keep it hydrated during the colder months when there’s less humidity in the air, even if my skincare hasn't quite required facial oil yet.
Dry brushing
A few weeks ago, I renewed my morning dry brush routine and after just a few days, I felt the difference. I gently scrub my skin before showering and the result is post-shower softness. Keep your focus on a gentle technique and remember: there are no extra points for overly sloughed skin.
My routine is easily accomplished while waiting for the water to get hot and once I’m in, the exfoliated skin is rinsed away and new, supple skin is revealed. This is the best prevention I know for flaky shins, which always seem to appear out of nowhere when the weather gets colder. It’s also great at removing those tiny bumps on the backs of arms and legs.
Body moisturisation
While I’m not a huge one for moisturising my body every day (I’m lucky that my skin doesn’t require it), there comes a time each winter when I need something more to support my dry brushing. Currently, I’m using a super simple, but highly effective CeraVe body lotion a couple times a week.
I also love body oil, particularly a dry body spray because they absorb quickly and don't leave me feeling sticky. As temperatures drop, I'll include this step more times each week.
And for elbows and any other rough patches, where I need more than a dry brush and cream, I use a glycolic body lotion. I'm looking forward to trying this one from Pixi to supplement my exfoliation while moisturising.
Hand cream and lip balm
While my face has maintained a good balance of moisture and oil content, my hands and lips are already signalling the season ahead. As soon as we hit the autumnal equinox, I recommitted to an evening ritual of hand cream and lip balm application.
In autumn and winter, I'm all about a thick, rich cream on my hands and a lip treat that lasts all night. My top choices are Kate Somerville Dry Skin Saver, Tatcha lip balm and La Roche-Posay Cicaplast for hands and lips.
During the day, I need something that absorbs a bit more quickly. Bioderma Atoderm Mains is a great choice for my hands and I alternate between the Smith’s Rosebud Salve Balm (I prefer the tube to the tin) and Alex Steinherr’s Sleep Spa Overnight Lip Mask (I know, it says overnight, but I enjoy the pale pink colour during the day). The first application happens just before I head outside to skip rope at the start of each day.
What are you doing to get ready for winter?