Why Exfoliation is Essential as the Weather Turns Cooler
As the temperature drops and we turn on the heating, our skin can start to feel the effects of the cold, dry air. The combination of indoor heat and chilly outdoor temperatures can lead to dehydration and dullness in the skin. To combat this, it’s essential to incorporate exfoliation into your skincare routine and consider adding nourishing facial oils or rich night balms for extra hydration.
Exfoliation is the key to maintaining a bright complexion and preventing your skin from looking as dull as the weather outside. Look for natural exfoliants like fruit acids and enzymes, which may not always be noticeable as they work, but trust me, they are incredibly effective.
Fruit acids, or AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), and enzymes from fruits like papaya and pineapple are excellent for gently breaking down dead skin cells and accelerating the production of fresh, healthy skin. Although our skin naturally renews itself, this process slows down as we age, resulting in duller skin. This also means that serums, oils, and creams won’t be absorbed as effectively.
To address this, exfoliate twice a week. When choosing exfoliators, opt for those with gentle polishing particles instead of harsh abrasives. Many people enjoy the scrubby feel of walnut shells or ground almonds, but these can be too rough for the skin, especially with frequent use. I prefer jojoba grains, which are smooth and spherical, offering a gentle yet effective exfoliation. Their soft texture doesn’t mean they aren’t powerful—on the contrary, they’re one of the most efficient yet gentle exfoliants, which is why I use them in my Scrub Up facial scrub.
Scrub Up combines papaya enzymes, fruit acids from maple, lemon, and bilberries, along with jojoba grains. Regular use, especially in the evening after cleansing, helps brighten the skin and even out skin tone. Over time, the fruit acids may also help fade age spots, giving your complexion a more youthful appearance.
If you haven’t introduced a face oil into your routine yet, now is the perfect time to do so. A serum combined with a few drops of face oil can replace your usual moisturizer in the morning and at night. For added hydration during the day, simply add a drop of oil to your regular moisturizer. At night, massage a couple of drops into clean skin to lock in moisture.
For very dry or damaged skin, consider swapping face oil for a richer, more nourishing night balm. Rest & Regenerate is a luxurious balm that helps to hydrate, brighten, and improve skin elasticity overnight.
When selecting an oil, choose one that suits your skin type. Oils like rosehip, kiwi, evening primrose, and chia are light, easily absorbed, and perfect for all skin types. They help repair damage, nourish, and balance the skin, and are rich in skin-loving omegas, which are essential for healthy skin.
For drier skin, look for richer oils such as macadamia, pumpkin seed, argan, avocado, and rice bran. For combination or oily skin (yes, even oily skin benefits from oils!), consider lighter omega-rich oils like evening primrose, rosehip, and kiwi, with added jojoba and thistle. These oils contain active ingredients like antioxidants and vitamins that help nourish, calm, and regenerate the skin.
Essential oils can also provide a boost to your skincare routine. Not only do they smell wonderful, but they also offer benefits for your skin. Frankincense, neroli, myrrh, carrot seed, and mandarin can improve skin elasticity and support new skin cell growth. For congested skin, oils like cypress, lemongrass, and bergamot are balancing. Rose geranium is perfect for restoring balance to troubled skin and has an uplifting effect.
As we head into the colder months, adjusting your skincare routine to include exfoliation, nourishing oils, and hydrating balms will help keep your skin smooth, radiant, and protected from the elements.