Winter Beauty SOS
Tuesday 15th January 2008 by Elizabeth Richards
Our winter weather may be more wind and rain than ice and snow but if the dark mornings and chilly evenings have left you feeling lethargic and looking less than your best, take steps now for good looks come springtime. Winter calls for no more of a complicated beauty regime than summer but it does pay to invest in season-specific products designed to protect against environmental stresses.
Low temperatures and central heating suck moisture from skin so for a clear yet comfortable complexion, try swapping your regular cleanser for a richer formula. Complement with a serum to nourish and choose super-moisturisers to rehydrate skin on both the face and body. Likewise, use a moisturising shampoo and conditioner for hair – particularly if heated styling tools are used daily – and make time for a weekly (or ideally twice weekly) intensive repair treatment.
Brighten up your basics too: an invigorating shower with a body scrub will buff life into cold skin but for a real winter treat, splash out on bath and body oils and indulge in a bit of spa luxury in the comfort of your own bathroom. Before stepping outdoors, remember to use a protective balm on lips and apply a quick dab of hand cream, paying special attention to the most vulnerable zones: knuckles, fingertips, palms and cuticles.
Zelens Cellular DNA Protection Day Cream, £120
With 20 natural ingredients – including 14 antioxidants – this is a surprisingly light cream that is quickly and easily absorbed to bring instant relief to stressed skin. It protects against the elements and uses a broad-spectrum SPF15 to guard against sun damage while keeping skin comfortably hydrated: never greasy, never dry, just evenly toned and perfectly smooth.
Available at www.SpaceNK.co.uk 
Aromatherapy Associates Support Breathe Essence, £12.50
If a winter cold or flu has left you feeling groggy, a few drops of this mind-clearing blend of essential oils sprinkled on a tissue will help to clear blocked sinuses and boost the immune system. With refreshing peppermint and antiseptic pine plus anti-bacterial eucalyptus and tea tree oils, it’ll soon have you back on your feet and fighting fit.
Available at www.Aromatherapyassociates.com
Prada Infusion d’Iris Shower Gel, £25
Perk up winter and treat yourself to this luxurious shower gel laced with feel-good notes of iris and mandarin to lift the spirits and soothe the mind. It has a creamy texture to hydrate and warm tired skin and works beautifully as a bath gel on those occasions when a shower sounds too much like hard work.
Available at www.JohnLewis.com
Rodial Body Repair Cream, £35
From the makers of beauty must-have Glam Balm comes this incredibly nourishing body lotion containing skin-saving shea butter and vitamin E to treat dryness and restore elasticity. Instantly absorbed so there’s no hanging about, smooth it on before hitting the town or walking to work to calm redness and keep skin hydrated.
Available at www.Rodial.co.uk
Mop Extreme Moisturise Conditioner, £9.45
Put back what the wind, rain and central heating take away with this moisture-boosting daily conditioner containing certified organic banana and apple juice. Apply to hair, give it a minute to work, then rinse for silky soft lengths with none of the weight that some intensive conditioners add.
Available at www.HQHair.com
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