Winter training. I know, it’s that time of year again. Whether you’re training for a marathon, track & field or a 10km, you’ll know all about the pains of winter training, because most races take place in the spring. Which means the bulk of our training, must be done during the winter.
Winter training is my least favourite part of running. It’s cold, dark and did I mention its cold? It also wrecks havoc on my skin. I suffer from dry skin, and eczema. And, over the winter months and I always notice the effects running in the cold has on my skin. It leaves it feeling dry and looking dull. Which means that over the past few years, I have developed a skin care routine to help keep any flare ups at bay.
Moisturise
My skin absolutely loves thick creams and moisturisers and this year i’ve discovered a few different skin care brands and products that my skin has currently fallen in love with.
Charlotte Tilbury is known for her makeup, but I love her for her skincare. I only discovered her moisturiser after a tester was popped in my shopping bag following a purchase. Charlotte’s Magic Cream is thick, hydrating and smells incredible. I sometimes find that thick moisturisers can leave your skin feeling tacky and looking shiny. But not this one! I love the consistency and how my skin feels so it has become my every day face cream.
For my body, I have recently discovered Pure Papaya Care. They have a wide range of products and lip balms, but the one I love is their ointment multi use cream. Again, another beautifully thick cream which I use as a hand cream and a body cream. Papaya contains high levels of Vitamin C and enzymes that help clear dry and damaged skin. It’s also a lot softer on my skin than a steroid cream during an eczema flare up.
Hydrate
My skin care routine doesn’t just stop at face and body lotions however. It includes my died and rest too. If you’re well hydrated on the inside, it really does show on the outside. If you are someone that struggles to drink water, try infusing your water with fruit. Cucumber and mint is my favourite combination. Its refreshing and reminds me of summer.
The air is a lot drier in the winter than which means our skin gets less moisture from it. We also spend most of the winter seasons cooped up indoors, set next to radiators and artificial heaters, which can suck the moisture out of your skin. So, even if you don’t think you need to, drink up and try to make sure you’re getting in those 2 litres of water per day.
Essential oils
My mum was always big on essential oils, especially during the winter. Jasmine, chamomile, and ylang-ylang are all amazing for your skin. Sometimes, moisturisers are too rich and cannot penetrate through the skin. And this is why our skin sometimes feels greasy or tacky after applying product. Essential oils are much lighter, and they also calm and soothe the skin. And their long lasting effect won’t rub off easily throughout the day.
Essential oils also help me to relax, so if you’re someone who often finds it hard to unwind after a long day at work, try running a warm bath and popping in a few oils.
I hope you’ve enjoyed my 3 quick winter skin hydration tips! If you’ve got anymore, please let me know and leave them below.
