Through the winter with well-groomed skin

IN WINTER

We all know it: chapped skin in winter isn’t exactly gentlemanly. It itches, stings and is a nuisance. I’m often asked for my tips on how best to get through the cold season whilst always looking well-groomed.

The problem

Temperatures drop, skin cracks. But why is that, actually? Because it’s cold outside, we spend more time indoors. The dry air from the heating strips moisture from the skin, causing rough patches. Outside, the cool air puts additional strain on the skin and makes the epidermis brittle. The culprits are tiny sebaceous glands, which work more slowly at temperatures below eight degrees Celsius. As a result, the protective oils they produce harden and are distributed less effectively. This leads to an unhealthy exchange: moisture escapes, whilst pollutants penetrate more easily. But how can you protect yourself against this?

“Quick showerers” have the advantage

Quickly out of the cold and into a hot shower? Better not. Even if it sounds paradoxical: hot water causes you to lose even more moisture. Taking long showers also destroys the body’s natural oil film – the result: cracked skin. You can also go wrong with shower gel; some products dry out the skin with their cleansing agents. That’s why we’ve developed Eric:Barbier Body Wash: free from silicones and parabens, it gently and softly cleanses with its high-quality, nourishing ingredients, and it also has a moisturising effect. The masculine mahogany scent rounds off the perfect winter shower.

My insider tip

After a shower or shave, our beard oil is a real all-rounder. Simply apply one or two drops to the neck and nape of the neck. What very few people know: unlike many synthetic oils that form a film, our natural beard oil is absorbed straight away, moisturising and nourishing the skin. We’ve spent years perfecting the highest quality. When I took over the salon on Ballindam, I ordered lots of different oils, tried out various blends and involved the customers in the development process.

The cream trick

Fat is good – at least when applying cream in winter. As the water content in moisturisers can freeze on the surface, the fat content should be at least 50 per cent. The firmer the consistency, the higher the fat content of the cream. Make sure the ingredients include urea or panthenol, which keep your skin moisturised. Be careful with blemished skin – these lotions can cause irritation. It’s best to chat to your doctor or pharmacist before slathering on random products.

Moisturise without the pain

Hands are particularly sensitive. No wonder, as they bear the brunt of the strain. Every time we wash them, we strip away more moisture. That’s why you should only wash your hands when necessary, and then moisturise them with a cream. When washing up, the rule is: always wear rubber gloves. Gloves protect your hands from drying out due to contact with washing-up liquid.

With these tips, you should get through the cold season in good shape. And if you need an extra dose of sunshine now and then, why not pop into one of our salons!

Yours, Anthony