Winter is coming and it's ready to ruin your skin!

I don't know about you but whenever Winter hits, my skin can go from silky smooth to dry and uneven. However, for the past couple of years I think I've cracked the secret to amazing skin all Winter long and I'm going to share it with all of you! So without further delay let's talk about how you can prepare your skin for Winter. 

Before we get too far into this skincare routine I would like to clarify that this is what works best for my skin and it's important to remember that everyone's skin is different. Personally, I have quite dry skin that can get really sensitive in the Winter with red blotchiness to match. So if this sounds like you then these tips are right up your skincare street.

First things first you want to get yourself an oil based cleanser. This is not only great at removing the toughest of make-up, it's also a great way to soothe your dry red skin. My favourite oil based cleanser at the moment is the Garnier soothing 2-in-1 make-up remover.

One of the best things about this cleanser is that it doesn't contain any perfumes or alcohol so it doesn't irritate my sensitive skin. I usually apply this every evening in a light sweeping motion with a cotton wool pad. It leaves my skin feeling hydrated, soft and most importantly clean.

I don't know about you but my skin can get used to products pretty quickly then soon after the product stops having the same effect, especially in Winter. So one big tip I have is to never underestimate the power of alternating between moisturisers. This stops your skin from adjusting to a product.

Currently I am switching between Clinique's dramatically different moisturiser and Ioma's day and night cream for sensitive skin. As far as moisturisers go these ones really are chalk and cheese but that's why they work so well together. Clinique's moisturiser is far more oily making it a great night time moisturiser for us dry skin girls. Whereas Ioma's moisturiser is more lightweight and better for applying during the daytime as it doesn't leave you looking shiny.   

In the Winter it's especially important to exfoliate your skin to keep it clean and clear. However, the bad thing about exfoliating is that it can leave your skin vulnerable and dry. Not good news for me. But let me tell you this next step truly is my secret weapon. I have never owned a product that has saved my skin like this one has. 

This is the one smooth operator face scrub from Urban Outfitters and it is a gift from the skincare gods! I usually apply this after I've cleansed but before I've moisturised. All you have to do is gently rub the product all of your face and wash it off. It leaves my skin feeling plump, fresh and silky smooth. One word of warning though- don't use this product more than twice a week, especially if your skin is similar to mine. 

If you haven't already try these products out and let me know what you think in the comments. Or tell me about your Winter skin preparation routine, I'd love to know how everyone else fights off and protects their skin from the elements!