During cold weather, it's essential to have a skincare routine that supports gentle cleansing without stripping oils. The harsh conditions can make your skin dry and flaky, but the right skincare will restore your youthful, glowing appearance.
A good skincare routine is founded around a top-quality source of hydration. Rather than using a traditional moisturiser, you might opt for a hydration serum. There are several reasons why hydrating serum is the most direct means of hydrating your skin:
- Serums are made with high concentrates of ingredients targeted towards particular skin issues (acne, dehydration, dry skin and so on). This extra concentration will result in the deeper penetration of serum into delicate, cold-ravaged facial skin.
- Moisturiser often leaves an unwanted 'greasy' feel, which can trap bacteria and lead to infections (such as zits or acne). Slathering on a thick layer of the wrong moisturiser for your skin type will do more harm than good. In contrast, serums are formulated to avoid feeling greasy, due to their water-based texture.
- While moisturisers are designed to primarily lock in moisture, serums can also contain ingredients that actively hydrate delicate skin. Many (high-quality) serums contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid variants, which attract and retain moisture. We'll explore the typical ingredients of high-quality serums more later.
In sum, skincare routines during the cold period do not vary dramatically from their seasonal alternatives but may contain one or two hydrating products. Examples of these products include hydration serum, which is lightweight but deeply hydrating.
Using Hydration Serums in a Routine
The best way to unlock the benefits of a hydration serum is to use it regularly - using it once or twice a month isn't going to make much of a difference to your skincare.
Though skincare rituals will vary greatly, depending on individual preference and skin type, here are a few suggested steps for integrating a hydration serum into your routine.
As a quick note, we recommend patch-testing any new products. Apply a small amount to a non-visible bit of skin (such as behind the ear) and wait for 24 hours. If, during this time, the patch of skin becomes inflamed or irritated, do not use that product again.
- Cleansing
- Toner (Optional)
- Hydrating serum
- Moisturise
- SPF (Optional)
You can apply a serum using your fingertips. The delicate skin around the eye should be avoided. Don't forget your neck and decolletage! Seal in the serum's moisture by using a moisturiser that suits your skin type. Pat the moisturiser on gently, focusing on the driest part of your face (e.g. cheeks and undereye area).
If you're completing your skincare routine for the day ahead, protect your skin by applying a non-greasy sun cream.
Even if you're not completing a skincare routine regularly, we would recommend applying hydration serum twice a day. Keeping your skin consistently hydrated (especially if you live in hot or dry conditions) will prevent premature ageing. Keeping your skin radiant in the short term will pay dividends in the long term.
What is Best Hydration Serum for Dry Skin?
Hydration serums come in all scents, sizes and price tags. However, your skin deserves only the best, so it's worth researching to find the best hydration serum for your skin.
While the scent of a hydration serum (green tea, floral, berry, etc.) will depend on personal preference, the best hydration serum will often incorporate the following ingredients.
Sodium Hyaluronate: A derivative of hyaluronic acid, it will attract and retain moisture, plumping your skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Niacinamide: it's also known as vitamin B3 and is a versatile skincare ingredient with numerous benefits. Examples of these benefits include reducing inflammation, brightening skin tone and reducing the appearance of pores.
Try IKKARI's hydration serum, which is designed to fit into your daily rituals. Formulated with the highest-quality ingredients, it will boost the look - and most importantly - the feel of your skin. By locking in a layer of hydration, you can prevent moisture loss, keeping your skin soft, supple, and healthy for up to 24 hours.