Defend Skin Against Winter Weather

Bleak weather, dropping temperatures and central heating are just some of the skin enemies we'll be facing this winter.

Complexions really suffer during winter says Bharti Vyas, creator of Tesco's Skin Wisdom range.

"Winter calls for a richer moisturizer than summer and a nourishing cream should be an integral part of your skincare regime to provide a protective barrier against cold and wind. To help combat the drying effects of central heating, place a bowl of water near radiators to keep the atmosphere humidified."

It's not only your skin that takes the brunt of the winter weather says Sally Penford of The International Dermal Institute. "Chapped lips are common as they do not secrete any oil to protect themselves. The best solution is to use a gentle micro-exfoliant every other day. This will delicately soften and smooth the lips by removing rough skin.

"Follow up with a protective lip treatment that has high emoliency, but a low quantity of humectants (i.e. glycerol) as these can cause the lips to get dryer still."

Cold weather can also make hands sore and nails may become weaker and cracked. Marcia Kilgore, founder of Soap & Glory Cosmetics says to avoid over washing.

"Water removes the skin's naturally occurring bioactive barrier of fatty films that holds in hydration. Use richer, thicker lotions and butters and you'll be likely to see less scaling and flaking on hands and fingers."