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How to achieve a flawless glow this winter

If you have only one skincare routine throughout the year, you are doing it wrong. Whether it's summer or winter, we can see a drastic change in the way our skin behaves. While summer time brings with it tanning season, winter brings out the dryness and dullness of our skin. With these changes, it's mandatory to follow a skincare routine that will best suit the skin as per the weather outside. It's not just about the skincare products we apply on our face, but also about our diet. Below is a routine you can follow through winter.

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Stay Hydrated
Of course, when it's 40 degrees outside, there is no doubt you need to quench your thirst frequently by gulping down loads of water. During winter, you may not feel that thirsty or dehydrated, but it's essential to still drink 6-8 glasses of water to keep our skin hydrated and prevent the dryness that comes with cold weather. Skin cells are like fish and need water to live. A good addition to your skincare routine is applying toner - use an alcohol-free toner over the skin after cleansing and immediately apply serum or moisturiser while it's still damp to seal in the hydration and active ingredients.
Moisturise
A lightweight moisturiser will be enough for most skin types in the summer, but when the weather begins to cool down, it is important to apply something a little heavier to prevent moisture loss. It is recommended to use a pro-remedy oil at night. My personal favourite is La Vallée Ultra Moisturizing Night Cream; I wake up with my skin feeling soft, supple and completely hydrated. If you have dry skin, opt for two layers of moisturising like a serum/oil with lightweight cream, it will help avoid any visible dryness. You can also mix drops of this oil with your foundation for a glowy finish.
Protect with SPF
This may come as a surprise, but fall (similar to spring) is a season where a tremendous amount of UV damage is incurred. We often think that when the temperatures are cooler outside, the sun isn't as harmful, but this is false. While the UVB rays (the ones responsible for causing suntans or sunburns) are not as strong in autumn, the UVA rays (the ones that cause skin cancer and premature wrinkles) are just as strong as they are in July and August. Protection against these rays is a year-round job. So, be sure to apply a sunscreen formulated for your skin type to the face, neck, and any exposed chest area to shield from direct sunlight.
Exfoliate
Because certain skin types are prone to increased sensitivity in summertime from heat, chlorine and sun, exfoliation should be minimal. But come fall, exfoliation is imperative when it comes to repairing and brightening the complexion. For silky, smooth skin, a well-formulated facial scrub or an at-home exfoliating peel is a must. I would recommend you try Body Boom's coffee scrub as it can be used on the face as well and helps with pigmentation and reduces acne scars.
Try to work on these skincare hacks (while also thinking about a change in shampoo and conditioner). A complete skincare routine will ensure your skin is happy all year long.
(Keswani is the founder of Glamazle.com)
wknd@khaleejtimes.com