There are so many factors that affect our skin’s condition- from hormones, to what we eat, exercise, pollution and our daily routines. One major factor as well is the change in seasons and weather. With the winter slowly approaching us, we need to adjust our skincare routine so we can battle the extra dryness in the air. Here’s what you need to know to prep your skin for winter:
Step 1 – Cleanse your skin
Whether you have applied make-up or not, it is always important to cleanse your skin every night. While we are out, we are faced with so much pollution, toxins and dirt that sticks on to our skin, clogging our pores. Whiteheads and blackheads are actually caused because dirt and sebum gets trapped in our skin. Therefore, it is crucial to cleanse your skin with a milk/oil based cleanser everyday. Our pick: Cosrx Low Ph Morning Gel Cleanser https://hk.iherb.com/pr/Cosrx-Low-pH-Good-Morning-Gel-Cleanser-150-ml/73954 
Step 2 – Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Can’t say this enough! During the winter our skin needs the extra moisture added back to our skin that has been taken away by the cold air surrounding us. This applies not only to people who have dry skin. Even if you have oily/normal/combination skin, your face still gets dehydrated (loss of water) as the environment around you is very dry. What we need to look out for? Sodium hyaluronate, honey,glycerin and hyaluronic acid- both attract moisture to the skin, helping it look dewy, fresh and helps plump it up. Our pick: Cosrx Honey Ceramide Full Moisture Cream https://hk.iherb.com/pr/Cosrx-Honey-Ceramide-Full-Moisture-Cream-50-ml/77202 
Step 3 – Sunscreen is our saviour
Even though it is winter and we don’t feel the heat, we cannot forget to still put on sunscreen. The sun’s rays still penetrate our skin even during the colder months and can cause sun damage (pigmentation, redness, sun spots, aging). We must apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before we go out/put makeup on. Also, don’t forget to apply on the rest of your body including your hands and feet. Our pick: Biore UV Watery Essence- Can be purchased at Sasa, Bonjour, Watsons or any Chinese pharmacy. 
Additional step – Sheet Masks
They are all the rage right now and for the right reasons. Sheet masks are a thin layer of cotton/gel that contains an ampoule, which is a highly concentrated serum, to help target a certain skin issue. For the winter, we would look for sheet masks with hydrating ingredients honey, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate that provide instant moisture to the face and are suitable for all skin types. They are easy to use, a quick pick me up for your skin and give you that very much needed downtime while your skin gets nourished. Our pick: N.M.F Aquaring Ampoule Mask-Can be purchased at Sasa, Bonjour, Watsons or any Chinese pharmacy. 
Remember, it is all about finding what’s right for your skin!
