Winter Skin Care Essentials

           With the months going by and the seasons changing from summer to winter, our skin also takes a shift. Just as we replace our wardrobe when summer ends and fall and winter are stepping in, we need to change our skin care routine. Everyone has a special skin type. Products may work for some and not for others so finding the right  skin care product can take time and patience. It is said that for the skin to properly adjust to a new product, it can take up to 6 to 8 weeks. My skin is dry, getting a bit on the combination side during the hot summer months. During the winter is when my skin becomes drier and prone to flakes. I have discovered the importance of preparing myself with the right winter care essentials that will aid my skin and protect it. Some of these products are already incorporated in my daily skincare regime and some I use only during the cold months. Before I go on and discuss each product, I think it is vital for everyone to take these precautions; include the right products that are not only based on skin type and condition but also your age. The following are reasons why our skin may react to a certain product;

-allergic reaction to a certain ingredient

- the product is too harsh on the skin

-the product is being used excessively

-too many products used at once may imbalance our skin, and a breakout may occur

-the product is not meant for the skin's age

• First thing, I use is an oil based makeup remover. It is called Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO). I use EVOO all year round because I feel clean as it removes all traces of makeup. It also helps my skin retain more moisture, since it does not strip away my natural oils.
• Once the makeup is removed, I proceed to the cleansing step. Because my skin is dry, I try to gravitate for cleansers that have a creamy texture and if possible ones that are fragrance free. I am currently using Aveeno Ultra-moisturizing cream cleanser and LUSH AquaMarina cleansing roll. 
• The Honey mask- Once a week I apply natural bee honey and wear it as a mask. Honey has been known to have many benefits for the skin. The natural antioxidant and anti-microbial properties found in honey help protect the skin from the damage of sun rays and rejuvenate and refresh skin by nourishing it; leaving skin soft and supple. All I do is grab one teaspoon of honey and put it in the microwave for 5 seconds. The melting of the honey enables it to apply easily and evenly onto the skin. I leave it in for about 10 minutes. Then with warm water, I rinse it off.
• Exfoliate using Exfolikate- Also once a week (not the same day I do the honey mask), I exfoliate my skin with Kate Somerville Exfolikate Treatment. Exfoliating the skin is just as essential as removing our makeup every night. The difference is that we should only be exfoliating 1 to 2 times a week, depending on the condition of the skin. When the skin lacks proper exfoliation, pores are more prone to becoming clog and remaining clogged. This can cause our skin to break out. Exfoliating removes the dead skin cells leaving a soft-texture to the skin. 
• Moisturizing the skin. During winter season is when you may want to opt for a heavier moisturizer for the night. I use Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream at night and during the day I use Korres Wild Rose 24 Hour Moisturizer (best base for under makeup). 
• Alba Un-Petroleum Jelly- My last step is applying this jelly on the areas where I am more prone to dry patches (my cheeks and the sides of my nose). This product made from pure plant oils and natural waxes. It is free from mineral oil, artificial fragrances and parabens. 

Ps: For soft lips- Every night I apply Jack Black Lip balm in Mint or Lemon and Chamomile- Love these lip balms!

Xx Anel