How To Look After Sensitive Skin In Winter - The Best Products And Dermatologist Top Tips

With it being the height of party season, it seems like all our efforts are focused on glitter, glam and social gatherings. But in the midst of all the commotion, a few crucial practices seem to be forgotten (or maybe we never really paid enough attention to them at all?). Crucial practices such as skincare - good, proper winter skincare that protects our faces from the elements. In such a hectic time of year, it’s not often enough that we talk about the protective measures we need to take to keep ourselves ticking over, from what you’re eating to how you’re treating your skin. Because, as much as we hate to admit it, if you don’t make the effort to take care of yourself in the winter, it will show by spring. But if you’re a sufferer of sensitive skin, you’re more susceptible to the effects of the weather than most - or the weather might make you more susceptible to having sensitive skin.

But don’t worry, if you have sensitive skin, you’re not alone. Some studies say that up to 52% of people claim they have sensitive skin. Other studies have shown that at some point in their life, 85% of people describe themselves as having sensitive skin. This can be due to environmental factors like weather or pollution, but also from using harsh soaps and shower gels which strip the skin of its natural oils, hence damaging the skin’s natural barrier. And when that barrier is damaged, it's bad news. You can expect irritation, dryness and dehydration which are seriously not cute. Obviously, this grizzly line-up is something we all actively want to avoid, which is why it’s essential to make sure your skincare products and grooming routine is on point.

One brand that’s leading the way when it comes to catering to those with sensitive skin is La Roche-Posay. In fact, they’ve developed a routine that works to protect sensitive skin and restore the skin barrier to keep you covered for winter. Their products value the sanctity of your skin, and with a suggested routine that is just two steps, they value your time as well.

If you've got two minutes at the start and end of your day, then you've got time to complete these two steps. Sensitive winter skin? Sorted.

Consultant Dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall says ‘The first step is all about the cleanser. If you’re constantly stripping the skin barrier using heavy soaps or shower gel on your face you’re going to damage even a non-sensitive skin barrier. Use a very gentle cleanser that’s preferably going to put some nutrients and some hydration back into the skin.’ 

The TOLERIANE Dermo Cleanser is a gentle rinse-off cleanser for ultra-sensitive, reactive or intolerant skin. Suitable for both normal and combination skin, this wonder cleanser is enriched with Glycerine and La Roche-Posay's signature Thermal Spring Water. Whilst some foam cleansers can upset your natural balance and strip the skin of much-needed natural oils, TOLERIANE Softening Foaming Gel has a PH of 5.5 - brilliantly close to neutral - to instantly soothe and moisture irritated skin.

For sensitive skin sufferers, when it comes to your moisturiser, it's all about checking the ingredients for nasties. Always look for anti-inflammatories like niacinamide. According to Dr Hextall, 'It's known to really calm the skin and promote ceramides which are fats which really sit in the cement of the skin barrier and stop water loss.' Humectants like Glycerine are also very soothing and hydrating for skin, which is why TOLERIANE Sensitive Skin Moisturiser (which contains them both) is a godsend for sensitive skin sufferers.

It is specifically formulated for sensitive, reactive skin prone to dryness, tightness, redness, itchiness or burning. It's also suitable for those prone to allergic reactions.

Or, for a targeted intense moisturiser, try TOLERIANE Ultra Overnight Care: a balm for ultra sensitive, intolerant or allergy-prone skin that's clinically proven to immediately soothe uncomfortable, damaged, or irritated skin, and to provide the optimal conditions for faster and better repair from day. It's particularly perfect after a messy shave that can leave you feeling raw.