How to detox your body and give it a spring clean
DERMATOLOGY
The Daily Mirror
Winter can lead to dull complexions and flare-ups. A lack of humidity in the colder months combined with the drying effect of central heating means the most superficial layer of skin – the stratum corneum – is not as effective at retaining water. Also, less exposure to UV light during the darker months means vitamin D is depleted.
“Skin conditions such as eczema and acne are vulnerable during the winter,” says Dr Noor Almaani, a dermatologist at The Private Clinic of Harley Street, London.
“Evidence suggests this could be attributed to the anti-inflammatory effects of ultraviolet radiation that is absent during the winter.”
FIX IT: Dr Almaani says it can be tempting to exfoliate after the winter and get rid of any dead skin, but warns not to be too aggressive.
“Although exfoliating increases penetration of moisturisers, it can often lead to irritation if too harsh.”
She also advises using gentle, non-alkaline cleansers to calm the skin as it recovers from winter.
