It is important to switch from lighter, watery lotions to thicker creams and ointments when the weather is colder, as richer, more moisturising formulas can provide extra hydration. QV Intensive Ointment, for example, is a soothing moisturiser for extremely dry and sensitive skin that not only helps to rehydrate your skin, but also helps seal in your skin’s moisture too.
The NHS also recommends reapplying emollients 3-4 times per day to maintain optimal moisture levels. A smaller emollient tube for on-the-go applications can help with this11.
To help the skin thrive in colder months, special attention should also be given to the hands and face, as these areas are often more exposed to the elements and require extra care.
As skin flare-ups are more frequent in winter, moisturisers can be combined with active treatment, such as topical corticosteroids, which can give better results than active treatment alone.
Top tips also include allowing time for each product to absorb before applying the next, and focusing on barrier support with quality ingredients that support the skin barrier.
Two key ingredients are glycerin, a humectant that draws and retains water in the skin to maintain hydration, and petrolatum, an occlusive that promotes both short- and long-term skin rehydration.
Other examples include paraffinum liquidum, an emollient that helps reduce moisture loss from the skin's outermost layer, thereby maintaining hydration; squalane, a naturally occurring component of the skin's sebum; and dimethicone, a silicone that helps protect the skin by forming a water-repellent barrier against water-soluble irritants.
