When layering winter skincare, balance is the watchword. This is the advice from Ultraceuticals product trial manager and licensed esthetician Jessica Nichols. To keep skin clear and hydrated, the first step is to understand what can cause irritation (see: indoor heating, dry winds, temperature shifts), and the second is to decide what protection your skin might need. Nichols says, “Dehydrated skin benefits from humectants like hyaluronic acid, while dry skin may need lipid-rich ingredients like shea butter.”
And if maintaining luminosity and a balanced complexion is high on the agenda this winter, Nichols says a combination of complexion-refining ingredients and exfoliation is key. “Include regular exfoliation with AHA or BHA ingredients in your routine — whether it’s a daily-use serum or a gentle exfoliating gel a few times a week.”
Here, an expert guide to achieving a clear, more radiant complexion this winter.
Find Your Formula
A decrease in temperature can deliver a dossier of dryness, tightness and increased sensitivity. For those of us who suffer, Nichols advises, “Some skin types benefit from layering lightweight hydrating serums, while others may require richer, more emollient moisturisers for added comfort and barrier support.” For nourishing hydration without any heaviness, Nichols recommends the Ultraceuticals Ultra Moisturiser Cream, but for those with dry skin in need of extra protection, the Ultraceuticals Ultra Rich Moisturiser Cream delivers intense hydration and comfort.
Develop a Morning and Evening Routine
For those in pursuit of a more radiant complexion, Nichols warns against a day-to-night skincare routine. “Our skin behaves differently throughout the day. In the morning, it’s important to defend against environmental aggressors like UV rays and pollution,” she says. And in the evening, when cells switch to repair mode, is where frontline formulas designed to renew and restore are at their most beneficial. Nichols suggests the Ultraceuticals Perfecting Serum paired with the Ultraceuticals Recovery Night Cream to nourish and restore the skin during beauty sleep.
Let Your Products Sink in
Allocating five extra minutes to beauty-making might be the skin’s soothing solution. “Allowing 30 to 60 seconds between each step gives your products time to absorb properly and prevent pilling. This brief pause ensures your active ingredients and moisturisers are fully absorbed, leaving you with a smooth, prepped base for makeup and SPF,” Nichols says.
Incorporate Supernova Ingredients
Luminous, more hydrated winter skin begins with supercharged ingredients. For an ultra-hydrated, plump complexion, Nichols recommends hyaluronic acid, and ascorbic acid (vitamin C), is the firms and protects in one step. For more resilient skin and barrier support, look to niacinamide, while retinol is the all-star support act for skin rejuvenation and anti-ageing. “Each of these ingredients targets different concerns, so finding the right combination is key to visible results,” she says.
Develop a Complexion Combination
To achieve a more radiant, clear complexion this winter, finding a beauty combination that works for your skin type is the mission statement. For Nichols, her go-to combination of vitamin C and SPF serves and protects against the Australian climate, even in the cooler months.
For ultra-nourishing products poised to serve and protect the skin this winter, here is the T Australia edit:
