One of the beauty industry’s most revered skincare experts explains why we all need a winter facial — and how to do it yourself...
1. We tend to eat more carbs in the winter months, which can alter the balance of our gut and slow skin function. Invest in a great probiotic such as Symprove (£79; symprove.com).
2. Double cleansing maximises results. The first cleanse removes make-up and pollution, the second grime and dead skin, so skincare products penetrate better. First use Nuxe Micellar Cleansing Oil (£15.50; uk.nuxe.com), then massage in CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (£9, at boots.com) before rinsing off.
3. Chemical exfoliators polish without being abrasive. I use the palms of my hand to press The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution (£6.80; theordinary.com) into my face, neck and chest.
4. Decléor Prolagène Lift Mask (£50; decleor.co.uk) is great for dehydrated skin. Massage a generous blob into the face to improve elasticity and remove toxins and tension from muscle tissue. Then place a hot cloth over your face for 30 seconds and gently wipe away.
5. Half-an-hour later, apply your antioxidants and peptides. Mix a few of drops of Skinceuticals CE Ferulic serum (£135; skinceuticals.co.uk), Niod Copper Amino Isolate Serum 2:1 (£38; niod.com) and The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% +HA (£9.60; theordinary.com) in your hand to make a supercharged serum. Pat on to the face.
6. Last, add a facial oil such as Decléor Néroli Amara Oil Serum (£48; decleor.co.uk) to lock in the actives and moisture.
