How to protect your skin in cold and windy weather as storm Éowyn batters Scotland

As red weather warnings have been issued across Scotland's central belt this weekend, storm Éowyn is set to ravage the UK with winds as strong as 100mph in some areas. A red warning from the Met Office suggests nobody should travel if they can help it, but if you do find yourself out over the weekend, it's vital you take measures to keep yourself safe.

Wearing protective clothing, planning your journey, and keeping up to date on warnings can minimise the impact of the storm on your weekend. But you should also consider the consequences that this harsh winter weather can have on your skin.

Protecting your skin from extreme winter weather is vital to prevent dryness, cracking, itching or flaking. And there are steps you can take to ensure you're giving your skin the best chance of bouncing back from winter dryness. Here's everything you need to know to ensure your skin stays healthy in cold and windy weather.

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Moisturise daily

The extreme cold and high winds of winter can dry out your skin, causing itching or flaking. It's vital that you keep your skin as moisturised as possible to prevent it from drying out over the winter months, especially if you have a drier skin type.

Petroleum-based and cream-based moisturisers work better than lotions for dry skin. It's a good idea to keep a moisturiser with you on the go in case you feel your skin drying out while out the house.

Humidify

Dry air, either outside or inside, can contribute to dry skin during the cold months of the year. Using a humidifier in your home can increase the moisture in the air and help hydrate your skin.

However, always be careful when using a humidifier, as too much moisture in the air could lead to mould.

Take vitamin D supplements

Here in the UK, we don't get nearly enough sun to maintain our levels of vitamin D throughout winter. The NHS advises everyone in the United Kingdom to take vitamin D supplements from October to March.

Ensuring your levels of the vitamin are maintained during winter will give your skin a healthier glow, as well as being beneficial for your general health and wellbeing.

Protect yourself from the wind

Covering your face when out in the wind will reduce the damage it can do to your skin. Petroleum-based lip-balms and face creams can make a protective barrier against the wind, keeping moisture locked in and preventing your skin and lips from drying out.

But particularly this weekend, it's better to avoid going out in the wind at all, if you can help it.

Avoid very hot showers

Extreme changes in temperature can cause your skin and hair to become more fragile, and hot water can irritate already dry and flaky skin.

Instead, it's best to use gentle soaps with lukewarm water, and to be gentle when drying your skin. It's also suggested that you don't wash your face too often, as soaps can strip your skin of its natural moisturisers.

While it's best to stay home this weekend if possible, following these tips will ensure your skin stays healthy and hydrated all winter long.

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