That winter coat isn’t your only defence against foul weather. Unless you’re partial to a balaclava, your skin’s bombarded as it transitions between Baltic streets and central heating, leaving you epidermis-erable.
You need a change of tactics to avoid a complexion as ravaged as Stalingrad. Call in the dermatological special forces to ensure you’re parade ground-ready.
Feeling Parched
Shine is your foe in summer, so it’s advisable use moisturising products sparingly. But in winter, your skin’s battling thirst. Low humidity and sterile office air dry it out, so you need to keep it quenched. “On particularly harsh, cold and windy days, keep a travel sized amount of toner and conditioner in your work bag,” says men-ü creative director Lloyd Hughes.
Phospholipids in Jack Black’s Double-Duty Face Moisturiser offer a face-protecting barrier to keep skin hydrated, so re-up every time you step into the elements. It’s also alcohol free, which protects dry skin and gives you a head start on that new year’s resolution.
No One Can Smell You
Evaporation takes fragrance off your skin and up nostrils but without heat, it lingers under your clothes. That means it’s safe to reach for the heavier end of your eau de toilette shelf and retire the citrus scents in favour of something woodier.
Dunhill Icon is understated enough not to offend in the office, but its black pepper, oud and leather notes will emerge even from beneath a cable knit sweater, scarf and overcoat.
Thinking Grease Is The Word
Not only do thermostat battles mean you spend the day ditching layers like a pass-the-parcel, your face also looks like it’s been around a toddler’s birthday party. “Men have more active sebaceous glands and sitting in warm indoor temperatures during winter exacerbates this problem,” says Hughes. So you twinkle more than the tinsel round the photocopier.
To shun shine, apply a toner, like men-ü Matt Skin Refresh Gel, post shave. “It tightens the skin and balances out the excess oil, leaving a layer of protection from the elements that also combats the signs of ageing.” Now no one will mistake you for Father Christmas at the office party.
Not Giving Yourself A Hand
Even if you’ve gone full roll neck and pea coat, exposed hands will turn your look from Serge Gainsbourg to trawlerman. “A healthy nail should be around 18 per cent moisture,” says manicurist Leighton Denny. Switching between hot and cold environments dries your nails out, so they’re more prone to cracks.
Gloves help – especially if they’re cashmere-lined, like Dents’ – but hydration’s better. File your nails to seal the edges after trimming, says Denny, and moisturise daily. “To combat the dehydration that is often the root cause of damaged nails, massage Hydra Flex Treatment Serum in before bed.”
Coupling Summer Hair With A Winter Wardrobe
That architectural hairstyle is quick to surrender when besieged by the elements. To avoid a drowned rat ‘do, simplify to something that can be easily reworked. “You need to set hair free from heavily greased styles,” says Hughes. “Textured hair supporting lots of movement is perfect for winter as it isn’t too disrupted by drizzle.” Think David Beckham’s tousled locks over the Sam Smith quiff.
You need to mix up your products, too. “A lightly textured style requires a medium hold,” says Hughes. Heavy waxes or gels turn to grease in the rain so your hair dries clumpy. Pick something with less weight instead, like men-ü Liquiflex. “It disperses easily through your hair and is practically weightless, but still thickens and gives volume.” Just blast under the hand dryer if you’re caught on your commute.
