Dr. Sylvie Peres: If it's short-lived, yes, cold is good for the skin. And within a reasonable range, because this alternating dilation and constriction of blood vessels helps eliminate the superficial horny layer, tightens pores, and decongests the periorbital area by improving microcirculation. Thus, the skin regains tone and the complexion regains its radiance! Conversely, acne is more common in hot and humid climates. A 1°C increase in temperature increases the rate of sebaceous excretion by 10% and worsens acne.
Why is our skin dry in winter?
Dr. Sylvie Peres: Our skin is the organ most connected to our environment. Blood flow is very important to maintain our body temperature at 37°C, so in winter the blood vessels in our skin constrict (vasoconstriction) to prevent the loss of calories. The skin then experiences less perfusion, perspiration and sebum secretion decrease, and our skin becomes dry.
The only exception is in the case of acne, where there may be reactive hyperseborrhea, which explains the worsening of acne in winter. It should be noted that with age, this reactivity becomes less pronounced and sensitivity to cold increases in older people. Added to external stress are the problems of our interiors: excessive heating, lack of humidity, indoor air pollutants.
Wind, cold, wearing thick clothing, and UV rays in the mountains further aggravate this skin dryness. The feeling of discomfort is very intense and skin tightness is frequent. This requires the application of moisturizers several times throughout the day, particularly on the face and lips.
Does cold make skin more beautiful?
Dr. Sylvie Peres: Yes, the cold stimulates microcirculation, which helps combat sagging skin and decongest fragile areas (such as the ultra-sensitive area around the eyes), brighten the complexion and reduce fine lines.
This is done in 2 stages:
1. When the body is exposed to cold temperatures, the small vessels located under the epidermis contract to limit heat loss and maintain an optimal temperature inside the body. This results in poorer vascularization of the skin and therefore a lower supply of nutrients to the skin tissues. Added to this can be the effects of wind, which significantly dries out the epidermis. The dried skin then takes on a rough appearance.
2. But in a second phase, the return to a normal temperature is accompanied by vasodilation and therefore an activation of the microcirculation. It is therefore advisable to regularly practice physical activities outdoors because they also restart deep circulation and prevent pathologies such as hypertension. And we know that beautiful skin is a reflection of our good general health. Biarritz is also known for the White Bears club , created in 1929, one of the oldest associations in Biarritz . Two hundred members swim at least three times a week, all year round!
Should we change our ritual when it’s cold?
When it's cold, the skin will lack water and lipids. Diet and beauty routines will need to provide them. It's therefore important to choose richer textures combining vegetable oils and waxes, combined with moisturizing and soothing active ingredients .
Does this apply to all skin types?
Mature and dehydrated skin:
I recommend doing the peeling 2 to 3 times a week to boost cell regeneration and better assimilate moisturizing treatments. Apply the Anti-Aging Moisturizing Cream morning and evening, coupled with the Radiance Serum to provide a variety of antioxidants and amino acids with our patented active ingredient based on sprouted seeds rich in buckwheat and amaranth. These seeds are also very interesting in food.
Combination to oily skin:
Apply the Fruit Acid Peel 2 to 3 times a week, and combine the Radiance Serum with the Combination Skin Moisturizing Cream.
Sensitive skin:
Boost hydration by applying the Intense Hydration Mask twice a week. If you haven't already, apply your Sensitive Skin Moisturizing Cream morning AND night.
Power supply:
Dr. Sylvie Peres: When it comes to diet, I recommend paying close attention to the seasons; this results in a complete variation in intake every 6 months, which is essential for liver detoxification. Enjoy the variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables and don't neglect the fatty acids you'll find in large quantities in nuts (macadamia, pecans, hazelnuts, almonds), vegetable oils (rapeseed, walnuts, flax), and small oily fish. Eat a variety of colorful foods to stock up on vitamins and nutrients. Also, maintain regular physical activity, especially outdoors, and don't forget sunscreen.
What should you absolutely avoid when it's cold?
Of course, you should avoid taking showers that are too hot and prolonged to warm up because hot water attacks the skin tissues. Taking a cold shower, or finishing it with cold water, can firm up the tissues, especially on the bust, or combat heavy legs. Rinsing your hair with cold water tightens the keratin scales and gives hair supple and shiny. More generally, taking a cold shower can boost the immune system and reduce stress.
Any last advice?
Dr. Sylvie Peres: Put your cream in the refrigerator!
In particular the Eye Contour , which helps to decongest and drain this area with cold stones ( Magic Mushrooms in rose quartz ) or simply a frozen tea bag.