Beauty

words by > Christina Kallery

Biting winds and cold winter temperatures can be your skin’s worst enemies. But there’s no need to endure itchy, flaky skin, so fight back against the season’s dry air. Romell Duresseau, creative director of the skincare line Makari, gives us some of his expert advice for defeating dryness and getting skin back into soft, luscious shape.

1) Exfoliate on a regular basis. A good scrub will banish dead cells. Don’t overdo it, though, as this can lead to irritation. A few times a week should suffice.

2) Ditch drying soaps during the cold season and use hydrating cleansers instead.
3) Apply moisturizer just after you towel dry. It will help seal in the moisture that’s already on your skin.
4) “For best results, moisturizing products should be concentrated at night,” says Duresseau. "When we sleep, we shed skin cells (part of skin’s renewal process). Night products are more hydrating, because moisture can penetrate into the pores.”

5) Finally, your mom was right. "Diet affects skin’s appearance,” says Duresseau. The first beauty rule of thumb? Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated and flush out toxins, which can cause breakouts. Also, eat a balanced diet that’s rich in anti-oxidants and take daily vitamin supplements.

Products we love

Makari Caviar Enriched Soap
Add a bit of luxury to your bath. Makari’s decadent moisturizing soap is infused with real caviar. www.makari.com

Olay Quench Therapy Body Lotion
Contains vitamins B5, B3 and E to help heal and hydrate extra dry areas. Works wonders on rough spots like elbows but is lightweight enough to use all over. www.olay.com

Roger & Gallet Gentle Nature Body Care Nutri-Moisturizing Restructuring Body Lotion
A light, creamy lotion that leaves skin soft and scented with just a hint of yummy vanilla. Enriched with real vanilla sap and aloe. www.roger-gallet.com

LaLicious Wild Blackberry Sugar Soufflé Scrub
This exfoliating scrub smells like dessert and is filled with skin-conditioning natural oils like vitamin E, coconut and almond. www.lalicious.com

Carol’s Daughter Ecstasy Body & Bath Oil
An ultra softening treat that leaves skin smooth and touchable. Plus, the floating flower petals make it a pretty addition to your shower rack. www.carolsdaughter.com