As the temperature drops and the air becomes drier, our skin can start to feel tight, dry and sensitive. Winter calls for a slower, more nurturing approach to skincare, one that focuses on protecting the skin barrier and replenishing lost moisture. By making a few thoughtful seasonal adjustments, you can keep your skin feeling comfortable, hydrated, and healthy all winter long.
Limit hot showers
Hot water can strip away your skin’s natural oils and weaken the skin’s natural barrier, leading to dryness and sensitivity. Try to keep showers warm rather than hot, and don’t stay in too long. Your skin will thank you by feeling less tight, itchy, and dehydrated afterward. And if you’re feeling really brave, you can mix things up with Gemma’s favourite - a cold plunge, or even just a few minutes under a cool shower to boost your circulation and natural glow.
Switch to a gentler cleanser
As temperatures drop, your skin is more vulnerable to dryness and irritation. This is the perfect time to swap out harsh or foaming cleansers for something more nourishing. Creamy or hydrating cleansers wash away dirt and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural protective oils.
Gemma loves to use her Nourishing Cream Cleanser with Quartz, Papaya and Moringa, which is ideal throughout the year, and particularly during the colder months. Formulated to gently cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils, it leaves the skin soft and hydrated.
Moisturise immediately after washing
One of the simplest yet most effective winter skincare habits is to apply moisturiser straight after washing. When your skin is still slightly damp, it’s primed to absorb hydration. Applying moisturiser at this stage helps seal in water, keeping your skin hydrated. This applies to both your face and body, especially areas prone to dryness like legs, arms, and hands. A few extra moments of care can make all the difference during colder months.
Our Energising Body Lotion with Olivine and Malachite is designed to leave your skin feeling hydrated and full of energy all day long. It’s formulated with a Tripeptide complex to enhance skin elasticity and firmness. For the face, our award-winning Hydrating Face Cream with Quartz and Hematite locks in deep hydration while targeting signs of ageing.
Exfoliate gently and less often
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, but in winter, less is definitely more. Over-exfoliating can cause redness, irritation, and compromise the skin barrier when it’s already under stress. Aim to use a mild exfoliant, focusing on gentle renewal rather than aggressive polishing. The goal is smooth, healthy skin - not sensitised skin.
Protect your skin outdoors
Cold air, wind, and low humidity can be harsh on exposed skin. But this doesn’t stop Gemma from getting outside! Simple accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats act as a protective shield, helping to prevent moisture loss and irritation. Covering up isn’t just about staying warm, it’s an important part of caring for your skin during winter walks, commutes, and outdoor activities.
Hydrate from within
Skincare doesn’t stop at what you apply topically. Staying well-hydrated supports your skin from the inside out, even when you don’t feel as thirsty in colder weather. Drinking enough water and including healthy fats like nuts, seeds, avocados, and oily fish in your diet helps maintain skin elasticity and softness. Gemma’s belief is that healthy, nourished skin starts from within, and this is especially true in winter.