Winter skin care

Aiming for attractive skin is a valuable goal but just like any other organ, the skin needs to be looked after.

When you attend to your skin by eating nutritious foods, avoiding smoking and alcohol, sleeping sufficiently, drinking lots of water and using quality products, you will rewarded by a healthy appearance.

The main role of the skin is to regulate body temperature and protect from dehydration. The most important thing to remember is if you don’t get the skincare right nothing else will fall into place.

Skins types are usually classified into four groups: oily, normal, combination and dry. Nicole Burford, a senior artist at M.A.C Cosmetics, says every skin is unique but you have to use the right products.

If you have oily skin it’s good to use a gel cleanser for a fresh and vibrant effect, which leaves the skin nourished and protected, she said.

For dry skin you should use a cream wash. You must avoid soaps because they can dehydrate the skin. It’s good to have natural ingredients in your products like chamomile, sandalwood, avocado and cucumber extract.

As shaving has been known to cause sensitivity, it’s also important to steer clear of foams as they tend to dry and aggravate the skin. Another essential that you can’t forget is a moisturiser.

It’s good to use a moisturiser during the day that has a sunscreen. A good moisturiser will hydrate the skin as opposed to adding layers of thick cream, Burford said.

With the cold months already here, it’s also important to use a lip conditioner and an eye cream to keep your skin beautiful. Exfoliates should only be used twice a week, but they come in handy to scrub away the dead skin layers and to give a facial glow.

With solariums a no go, M.A.C has a cosmetic bronzer called Sun Dressing on the market this winter. Unlike the orange-based fake tans, this brown mousse works straight away.

We use it a lot in fashion shows to give the skin a tan without looking over the top. It’s water resistant, so it doesn’t go all over your clothing, Burford said.

With foundations, it’s important to choose the best tone suited to your skin. But most guys are keeping it simple sticking to a tinted moisturiser and concealer.

A lot of men are also using a concealer called the Studio Touch Stick because it’s easy to use and the packaging is quite masculine. Concealers are useful in hiding love bites, dark eyes and shaving rashes, she said.

Making sure you have a good skincare routine is extremely important. Ensuring that all make up is washed off before going to bed, even if you’re too tired or drunk, will result in lasting benefits.

The M.A.C store is found at 276 Oxford St, Paddington and phone number is 9360 8581. For more details check out www.maccosmetics.com.au.