With ‘winter blues’ seeing an 84% increase in searches and 136% increase in TikTok videos in recent weeks, it’s clear that the winter blues are in full swing. So, if you’re feeling less glowy and more meh this Blue Monday, you’re not alone.
To help, Cult Beauty spoke with Dr Deborah Lee, from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy, to get all the expert tips and tricks on giving your skin, body and mind the TLC it needs to beat the seasonal blues. From mood-boosting skin care to vitamin-packed supplements and more, it’s time to recharge your energy and turn those winter woes into wellness wins.
- Take vitamin D supplements
Vitamin D is made in the body from the action of sunlight on our skin. But in the winter, the days are short, dark and the sunlight is too weak for this to happen. “Recent studies show that 20% of the UK population had vitamin D deficiency and 60% had levels below recommended”. A vital vitamin for bone health, energy, mood and your immune system, it’s recommended that all adults should take at least 400 IU of vitamin D per day. With that in mind, try incorporating vitamin D supplements into your morning routine.
- Go outside
Don’t let the winter stop you from getting outside and doing some physical exercise. It’s natural that when the days are cold, dark and short all you want to do is cuddle up at home. But getting outdoors and taking regular exercise has many benefits – just don’t forget to apply your SPF first (even if the forecast predicts overcast and rain)! “Going out in nature is good for mental health. As you exercise, this raises levels of brain endorphins – substances that give you a natural mood boost. Plus, exercise increases levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BNF) which is needed for brain growth and development. And believe it or not, even walking in the rain has health benefits, as you inhale a substance called geosmin which is created when the rain falls onto the soil. This has been shown to stimulate your immune system too.”
- Keep your skin hydrated
Let’s face it, the winter season is a bad time for your skin. The cold outside air and warm dry air from central heating can dry out your skin. “Drier skin can crack, allowing infective agents into the skin, worsening conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. You can help your skin by moisturising it twice a day with a heavier, cream-based moisturiser. This is vital as it helps restore the barrier function while retaining water. Look for a moisturiser that contains ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalene and vitamin E. Your day moisturiser and lip balm should also contain at least SPF 30 – even in the wintertime.
- Light therapy
A form of light therapy, using a LED mask as part of your beauty regime “boosts light exposure to your skin and can help regulate your mood”. While red light therapy (often used in LED masks) is mainly used for its skin benefits, it also penetrates the skin and tissues, leading to the production of serotonin (a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating mood). What’s more, using an LED mask is a comforting, pampering activity that can help with relaxation during the darker months too.
- Incorporate aromatherapy into your day
“Stimulating your olfactory system (sense of smell), aromatherapy directly influences the brain’s limbic system – the part responsible for emotions, memories and mood regulation”. Therefore, adding it into your day-to-day can be a simple yet powerful way to alleviate the winter blues. There are many ways to incorporate this tranquil treatment into your regime, from using a diffuser to applying essential oils to your bath, skin and sleep routine. “Certain essential oils, such as citrus and peppermint essential oils act as uplifting and energising supplements, reducing feelings of fatigue, improving focus and promoting a sense of happiness and calm.”
- Get your beauty sleep
The long nights of winter may disrupt sleep patterns, meaning you may need to adjust your beauty sleep ritual to ensure you get in your eight hours. While relaxing oils like lavender, frankincense and sandalwood can ensure a peaceful snooze, swapping out your cotton pillowcase for a silk or satin one reduces friction on your skin and strands, helping to prevent hair breakage and fine lines.
- Switch up your body care regime
In addition to keeping your complexion hydrated, it’s important to adjust your body care routine to protect, hydrate, and nourish your skin too. “Use warm water, not hot water for washing and bathing, as this can be drying for the skin. Don’t overdo exfoliation – you can do this less often in the winter.” Why? Because frequent exfoliation can strip away natural oils, leaving your skin more vulnerable to irritation, redness and further dryness. Another beauty tip to consider is to “use hand cream after you have washed your hands” concludes Dr Deborah Lee.
Trifonia Asmar, beauty expert and senior copywriter at Cult Beauty comments on the winter blues tips:
“As winter settles in, it’s important to remember that small self care rituals can make a big difference. At Cult Beauty, we’re committed to helping people nurture themselves from the inside out, whether that’s through skincare to supplements that support overall mood and winter. It’s important to remember that winter doesn’t have to mean compromise, it can be a time to focus on feeling well and resilient.”
For wellness products to help you care for your body, skin and hair from inside out this winter please here.
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