Women over the age of 50 are particularly susceptible to skin troubles during the winter season. Reduced daylight hours result in lower levels of vitamin D.
Sudden exposure to cold and bitter temperatures can disrupt the skin. Failure to implement a season-friendly beauty routine can prolong these conditions.
4 winter skin problems in women over the age of 50:
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Dryness
With age, the oil-producing skin glands slow down and shrink, especially after menopause. During the winter months, middle-aged women may notice dry skin for the first time in their lives, and fine lines and wrinkles become more visible.
Cold and bitter temperatures and strong winds can deplete the skin of vital moisture, leaving it feeling dry and tight.
Adverse outdoor temperatures usually result in increased use of central heating; this combination is a recipe for a skin disaster.
Heating systems absorb up most of the moisture from the air, so you can still experience the drying effects of winter even when indoors.
Excessive use of anti-ageing products can also exacerbate this problem.
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Flaky skin
This is often accompanied by dryness, and white flakes appear on the face and neck. Severe dryness can cause your skin to crack and flake off, even if you're using a moisturiser regularly.
Dry heat blasting for long periods is a primary culprit, coupled with long, hot showers
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Redness
Redness can happen when blood vessels dilate after exposure to extreme sudden temperature changes; this is often why many people have flushed noses during winter sports activity.
Fluctuating between outside temperatures below 0 degrees and 18 degrees is another cause of the redness, as is increased consumption of hot beverages.
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Sunburn
Sunrays are just as harsh during winters as in summer. UV rays can cause sunburn on the face, cheeks, and neck, leading to long-term skin damage on the skin.
Sun exposure can also cause redness.
How can I prevent these cold-weather pitfalls and have healthy skin?
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Stay hydrated, cleanse and moisturise
Hydrate, hydrate and then hydrate some more! This is so important. Increase your daily water intake to keep your supple and youthful skin.
You can also add foods high in water content, such as cucumber, oranges, mushrooms and melon.
During the winter months, choose cream-based cleansers, and avoid toners that contain alcohol if you want to reduce dryness.
Products that contain alcohol zap the moisture from your skin. If your skin is dry and itchy, choose products that are free of colours and fragrances.
Exfoliate, but don't overdo it to avoid irritating the skin.
For women over 50, the skin's outer layer gradually becomes thinner and more delicate. Skip abrasive exfoliation and opt for a polishing cleanser. Stay away from harsh soaps.
Instead, switch to moisture-rich soaps that are kinder to the skin.
Moisturise and repeat! To ward off dryness, a regular moisturising routine is a must. During the winter months, go for products that seal in hydration.
At night, use a richer moisturiser on your face; this is vital to keep your skin looking and feeling smooth and radiant.
Wondering where to start your search for the ideal product?
Violet Jordan has got you covered. The Deep Clean is an an all-in-one cream cleanser and makeup remover and The Multitasker, a day cream, night cream, eye cream and serum, all in one.
These skin nourishing creams offer around the clock hydration, including the eye area.
This bundlecomprised of two products which work in tandem. guaranteed to leave your skin feeling soft, supple and clean.
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Wear sunscreen all year round
Choose a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF and one that blocks UVA and UVB rays. Remember to apply before leaving the house; your skin needs to be shielded from the sun.
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Invest in a humidifier.
Say goodbye to unwanted flaky skin by maintaining the humidity inside your home with a humidifier. The ideal level ranges from 30 to 50%.
These tips will not only keep those winter skin troubles at bay, but you'll also benefit from a glowing complexion and radiant skin for years to come.
