How to Prep Your Skin for Melbourne Winter

As the last signs of summer fade away, it’s time to face the fact that winter is coming to Melbourne.

You could argue that Melbourne truly comes alive as the leaves drop off the trees. We just do it so well. From the casual layering of clothes to create outfits that look like they could have come straight off a Comme de Garcons catwalk, to the charming delight of a Sunday spent ducking the rain while wandering from cafe to bar to restaurant. And what’s not to love about a city where you can go from viewing the European masterpieces in the morning, to an afternoon cheering on your favourite AFL team?

But all that cultural appreciation comes with a cost – on your skin.

Melbourne’s cold weather climate can wreak havoc on your complexion. As the mercury drops, so too does the humidity, leaving your skin feeling dry and flaky as moisture is sucked out of it.

Then there’s all the central heating, drying out your skin as you relax in the warmth. And as you move from inside to outside, the sudden change in temperature can cause the blood vessels on your face to expand – leaving you with visible red lines.

How to Protect Your Skin in Winter

While the weather may not be predictable, we’d certainly never suggest moving to a warmer climate up north. So instead, we’ve put together our list of ways you can protect your skin during the colder months and maintain the dewy glow of summer.

Use a Humidifier

You can negate some of the effects of Melbourne’s dry weather by using a humidifier at home. These small, portable devices work by diffusing a fine spray of water into the air, increasing the humidity levels inside.With extra moisture in the air, your skin will naturally wick less, keeping you hydrated and your skin supple.

A humidifier can also help with sinus and allergy problems so common in the colder months. And many of them come with an oil diffuser so you can scent your home with your favourite fragrance at the same time.

Eat Moisture Rich Foods

Beauty really does start from the inside and with the colder weather now is the time to up your absorption of hydrating minerals. Leafy greens – like watercress, spinach and kale – are particularly effective at boosting your skin’s hydration. Search online for some new recipes to get inspired then whip up a delicious stir fry or wholesome salad.

At the same time you might want to cut back on dehydrating food and drink, like salt-laden snacks and alcohol (look, we’d add coffee to that list, but this is Melbourne).

Change Your Skincare Routine

Just like you change up your wardrobe when the weather turns chilly (hello black!) you also need to rotate your skincare regime.

Sub out those light moisturisers and cleansers for products that will rehydrate and add a protective layer to your skin.

If you feel like your current skincare isn’t giving you the results you need, it might be time to book in a consultation with MySkin therapist. We carry a range of specialist skincare ranges from Aspect Dr, Cosmedix and Environ.

Peel Back the Layers

As your skin dries out in the colder weather it accumulates more dead skin cells on the surface, leaving you with a dull appearance.

Regular exfoliation at home will help remove this dead skin and unclog your pores.

But for a truly deep exfoliation, a Clinical Peel at a specialist skincare MySkin Clinics will prepare your face to do battle with the winter climate. A clinical peel will unclog pores, smooth away dead skin and promote collagen regeneration.

You’ll also leave a clean surface for your skincare to penetrate more deeply, leaving you with glowing skin for longer.

Each peel will be chosen based on your skin’s needs and your particular concerns. But what you can be sure of is smoother, clearer and more glowing skin.