The principal aim: hydration
One of the main effects of the cold on the skin is dehydration or loss of water. This leads to a skin imbalance that causes lines and irritation. The sharp changes of temperature that occur when you enter heated areas from the outside are another adverse phenomenon that should be borne in mind.

To improve water retention, it is best to use moisturising creams that hydrate more than normal and regularly use masks with the same characteristics, combining these with cleaning and make-up removing creams that also have hydrating agents.

Curing irritations
Another aspect to bear in mind is the calming and healing effects of some cosmetics that are ideal for treating irritations and soreness. There are several formulas in this field, including tonics and lotions. Some of these are even made up of plants and natural substances (camomile, lime blossom and aloe vera).

Different types of skin
Although the cold attacks all types of skin, dry and sensitive skins are especially vulnerable. Dry skin sufferers should use anti-aging creams, because this type of complexion is more vulnerable to wrinkles. Vitamins C and A, and anti-wrinkle creams are ideal for preventing the early appearance of lines on the face. The tightness caused by low temperatures causes lines on the face to be more noticeable.

The level of protection of these cosmetic products needs to be very high for sensitive skins, with high factor solar protection, a measure that can be extended to all types of skin. Oil-rich nutritious creams with antioxidants are also a good option. Oily skins, meanwhile, should also adapt to the conditions and it is advisable to ask for advice before making a purchase. In addition, in order to fight the surrounding dryness that is so harmful to the skin, it is best to use humidifiers in heated areas.

Deep cleansing
Since we tend to spend more time in closed and contaminated areas in winter, it is best to thoroughly clean your face every morning and evening. This should be thorough but not aggressive. This should be complemented with a weekly intensive wash. It is also important not to have overly hot showers, since warm water relaxes the skin and diminish the abrupt changes in temperature that are so bad for the skin.

Special attention to the eye area
Special formulas must be used to treat the skin around the eyes and the area must be hydrated and invigorated to reduce bags and irritations and, above all, the dark rings that are more noticeable now that the summer tan has worn off. There are various products available that help to improve the microcirculation of the area and thus make bags and rings less visible. Curiously cold that is applied locally using calming pads helps to reduce bags. Using sunglasses may also help to safeguard the eyes and their surroundings from the rigours of winter and for the lips there is nothing better than nutritious creams or lip balms to hydrate the area.

In the snow
If you set off on trips to snowy areas, protection should be even greater. Here you can use balaclavas or other garments that protect the face from exposure to the elements, and also use a high factor (30+) sun cream, since the sun is stronger in mountain areas. You must also remember to reapply creams every three hours or so. You must also be careful when it comes to protecting the nose (which bums easily) and the lips (you can use cocoa cream), all without forgetting that once you have returned from the mountains, it is essential to thoroughly invigorate and hydrate the skin once more.