Winter isn't kind to our bodies - it dries out our skin, frizzes our hair and chaps our lips. This year, fight back with these tips to help you beat the icy wind and rain and become a winter beauty
Exfoliate your lips
Your lips have very few oil glands, so they dry out quickly. To keep them soft, supple and kissable, exfoliate by applying petroleum jelly, then taking your toothbrush and moving the tip over your lips in a circular motion.
Deep condition
Your regular moisturiser may not be enough when winter comes to town, so step up your game and deep condition. Add a few drops of almond oil to your moisturiser, then apply the mixture to your hands and feet before bed; put on gloves and thick socks to protect your sheets. In the morning your skin should feel soft and smooth.
Get kitted out
Wearing wet clothes can dry your skin and cause irritation. Avoid the damp by making sure you pack an umbrella, preferably one with a Teflon-treated hood that will repel water and dry quickly. Choose a jacket that's thick, windproof and water-resistant. To keep your feet warm and dry, opt for wool socks and insulated boots. Shoes with a non-slippery sole, such as rubber, are ideal for winter.
Wear sunscreen
It may sound like an odd winter must-have, but sunscreen should be part of your beauty routine even in the coldest months. Although it's true that our skin is less exposed to the sun in winter, UVA rays are the same strength year-round. Despite your layers of clothes, your face and hands will still be vulnerable to damage, so aim to wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.
Stay hydrated
Cuddling up by the fire with a hot cup of tea sounds like bliss, but what's it doing to your body? The importance of keeping hydrated is obvious during summer, but it may seem less crucial during winter. In reality, we lose a lot of moisture from our bodies during winter, too. So make sure you stay topped up and swap your normal tea for a non-decaf, herbal one.
Take oil baths
Never heard of an oil bath? Well, it's about time you did. Oil baths relax and moisturise - a perfect combination if you want to winter-proof your beauty routine. To indulge in this luxurious and budget-friendly treatment, simply add several drops of your favourite oil to your bath water. Almond oil works well and smells great.
DIY lip balm
Making your own lip balm is fun and cost-effective. You will need: one teaspoon of packed beeswax, half a teaspoon of cocoa butter and four teaspoons of sweet almond oil. Add honey for a touch of flavour. Simply heat the beeswax until it melts, then add the other ingredients and allow it to cool.
Oil-based cleanser
Although your facial cleanser may be great for your skin when its warm outside, it may not be as effective when conditions change. Care for your skin by choosing an oil-based cleanser, so it works with your moisturiser. It also pays to wash your skin with warm water as hot water can be drying.
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