Winter can be a difficult time of year for many of us. The weather is dreary, the daylight hours are fewer, it’s more difficult to get out and exercise, and, as a result, there are seasonal blues to contend with.
When these kinds of concerns emerge, it might seem strange to focus on what we look like. But the fact is that grooming and self-care can give your confidence a lift during winter. What’s more, it will allow you to contend with some of the challenges that come with dry air and freezing temperatures.
Lock in Skin Moisture with Layered Hydration
In winter, your skin faces two major challenges. For one thing, there’s the freezing air outside; for another, there’s the harshness of indoor heating. These two things can make it more difficult for your skin cells to retain water, and remain pliant and springy.
The solution is often to dispense with lightweight moisturisers in favour of heavier ceramide or oil-based creams. Apply these immediately after you’ve showered, alongside a hyaluronic-acid-based serum, and a daily SPF.
Protect Hair from Static and Breakage
Cold weather doesn’t just pose a problem for your skin. It’s also something that your hair will need to cope with. If you’re wearing a woolly hat, then there’s also the danger of static electricity undermining your style. During winter, hair is also more brittle, and prone to thinning and falling out.
Look for moisturising hair products, including shampoos, and use deep-conditioning masks a few times each week. A good hair growth serum can also be effective in battling thinning hair. You might also seek out hats that come with a silk or satin lining. These will minimise friction and preserve your hair.
Master the Art of Three-Part Layering
During winter, it’s easy to throw on a thick coat. But what if you end up feeling a little too warm, once you’ve started moving around? If you’re just wearing one layer, then taking it off might not be an option. For this reason, it’s worth wearing several layers, just like you would when skiing.
The bottom layer should be there to keep your skin comfortable, and to wick up moisture. The middle layer should be there to insulate, while the top layer should act as a good-looking barrier against the weather.
Invest in Practical but Stylish Footwear
If you’re on your feet at this time of year, then you’ll need to contend with the challenge of wet pavements, snow, and ice. This means looking for a pair of rugged boots with high-grip soles.
Fortunately, you rarely need to compromise on style when you’re shopping for this kind of footwear. Chelsea boots, tall riding boots, and lace-up hiking boots are all practical and stylish. You’ll just need to be sure that you’re cleaning your boots at least once a month, and treating the leather appropriately.
Elevate Mood with Rich Colour and Texture
When the weather is grey, it’s often a good idea to introduce a splash of colour via the clothes you’re wearing. Just a few choice accessories, like scarves and jewellery, can be a powerful means of breaking up and accenting an outfit that’s otherwise fairly monochrome. Don’t be afraid to experiment with texture, either!
