Cold temperatures can wreak havoc on your skin and leave it feeling dry and dull, but luckily there are some easy steps you can take to ensure you keep your complexion healthy and glowing no matter what the weather. Nutritional therapist Jacqueline Newson has revealed her top tips for how to keep your skin looking radiant all year long…
© Photo: iStockThere are easy ways to keep your skin healthy and glowing
Exfoliate, hydrate and moisturise
Take the time to give your skin a daily scrub to remove old dry dead cells. Try a simple, natural bristle brush to invigorate the skin. Not only will this stimulate the blood circulation and bring oxygen and nutrients to the surface, but it can also encourage the removal of ageing toxins.
Drink plenty of water
At least five or six glasses a day will help to keep the cells plumped up. A lack of water can stop skin cells from functioning properly, leading to a loss of protective oils which are essential for helping to maintain the skin's lustre and elasticity. If you want to give your skin a nourishing boost, don't forget to use a good moisturiser daily.
Look after your liver
Too many cocktails and takeaways take their toll on the liver, which can lead to poor elimination of toxins, reflected in your skin. Clear your cupboards of sugary pre-prepared and processed foods and eat simply. Lean proteins with wholegrains and at least 5-10 helpings of fruit and vegetables a day will very quickly bring a glow back to your cheeks.
© Photo: iStockStaying hydrated is key to a radiant complexion
Look after damaged skin
Sometimes overdoing it in the sun is unavoidable, and you can't always reach everywhere with suntan lotion. Aloe Vera gel is ideal in these situations – a little goes a long way and this wonderful plant has amazing healing properties that soothe and protect the skin.
Top up with antioxidants and bioflavonoids
Fruits and vegetables are chock full of these vital nutrients that work hard to clear up free radical cell damage caused by over exposure to the sun, as well as the drying effects of winter and central heating. Free radical damage has been associated with premature ageing, so give yourself a little extra insurance against wrinkles by filling your plate with colourful fruit and veg.
Keep a portable humidifier in the bedroom
In winter the humidity in the environment is lower which results in dryer skin. Add to this the constant pumping out of central heating at home and in the workplace and you have a recipe for dry tired looking skin - a humidifier at night can make all the difference.
© Photo: iStockStaying in shape is important if you want healthy skin
Eat oily fish twice a week
Oily fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines and fresh tuna can help to feed the skin with the omega 3 essential fatty acids that are so important for keeping skin supple.
Make sure you get enough Vitamin C
Vitamin C aids the production of hydroxylysine and hydroxyproline, both necessary for binding the molecules that create collagen, the substance that gives your skin its firmness and tone. It also helps to reverse the negative effects of UV radiation preventing sun damage. Try a supplement such as Altrient C (for more information head to abundanceandhealth.co.uk) which can help boost the production of collagen and reduce wrinkles.
Eat enough fibre
Fibre helps to promote healthy bowel movements and binds to toxins carrying them out of the body. Make sure you get lots of fibre into your diet. Oats, wholemeal bread, brown rice, whole grain pasta, pulses, beans, fruit and veggies.
Stay in shape
Let's not forget exercise, one of the quickest ways to get your circulation going. A brisk 30 minute walk a day can help to bring oxygen and important nutrients to the skin cells, making for an instant glow.
