I’m sure it’s no news to you that autumn is drawing to a close with the winter months swiftly approaching. This brings its own set of problems other than those nasty December deadlines. The wet and frosty weather can dry out your skin and cause irritation. However, a few well-placed swaps and additions to your winter skincare routine can save you from this discomfort.

Photo: Theresa Brandal Sande

Face serums

One product that everyone can benefit from using, are face serums. Used between your cleanser and moisturiser, it creates an added barrier for your skin, delivering a stronger amount of skin-loving ingredients. There are many options available with different benefits and properties for varying prices. Unless you have severely dry skin, there is no need to break the bank to get value for your money. You can buy serums for under £10 from both Superdrug and Boots.

Thicker formulas

Foaming cleansers and face washes can be drying on the skin, so the thicker products, which you would normally avoid in the summer, are now becoming a good alternative. Lotions and oils don’t strip the skin of its moisture, but people often steer clear of them due to the misconception that they will make the skin too greasy and cause spots. The added bonus is that they are great at removing makeup. Thicker moisturisers and night creams are also a valuable investment this time of year – especially if you buy one with added vitamins and nutrients.

If it’s too late to avoid dryness, then your skins heightened sensitivity can cause eczema and other similar skin conditions. There are drugstore products specifically-made for these irritations such as Aveeno, which has active oatmeal as a key ingredient in its range of moisturisers. Cleanser brands like Cetaphil also promise to soothe sensitive skin types while still working as a good makeup remover.

Skincare routine

Exfoliating is important, and a gentle face scrub should be used at least once a week alongside a moisturising face mask. This will rejuvenate the skin whilst removing the dead skin cells which can prevent those new face products from working effectively.

Photo: Theresa Brandal Sande