Words Lilly Delmage
Plummeting temperatures serve as the conspicuous reminder that October is finally upon us, and it’s time to start nursing our post-summer blues. As climates shift from balmy to bitterly crisp, it’s time to talk about the subsequent toll different weather conditions can have on our skin.
We spoke to dermatology and aesthetic registered general nurse, Emma Coleman, on how we can best treat sun exposed skin, and what steps we can take to protect it as we head into the autumn-winter season.
As Emma is currently in the process of taking over her third aesthetic clinic since 2015, we can rest assure our skincare queries are in good (moisturised, hydrated, and healthy) hands.

How can summer weather harm skin?
Clinical trials have shown us that excessive and/or long-term UV exposure can deplete elasticity and collagen production and put skin under immense stress. This can cause pigmentation and the formation of lines and wrinkles. In some cases, this damage can be irreversible. Not only this, but excessive UV exposure can also often cause skin to become dehydrated and dry. Certain skin conditions such as rosacea are known to flare up during times of UV exposure, so this is something to keep in mind.
Excess sweating is another common summer skin impact which leads to a build-up of bacteria on the skins surface and should be rinsed away with water. In addition, regular application of thick sunscreens onto the skin can also lead to blocked pores, breakouts, and heat rash.
How can winter climates harm skin?
Dry, flaky, and rough skin can occur over autumn and winter due to the drop in temperature outside, and the dry heat caused by home and car radiators. Eczema and psoriasis can also often worsen at this time of year, so if you notice your skin become drier, you may need to change your skincare routine. Make sure to include core hydrating products such as hyaluronic acid and emollient moisturisers such as Cetraben. If you notice eczema or psoriasis, you should see a skin specialist.
What can we do to take care of our post-summer skin as we head into winter?
A combination of antioxidant-rich skincare and in-clinic treatments will help to condition skin in preparation for the harsh winter months. A good daily vitamin C serum will help to reduce dark spots, and hyaluronic acid serums will aid the hydration which may have been lost. Opt for a moisturiser with SPF built in which also contains vitamins A and E.
Another option would also be undergoing a course of medical grade skin peels which will also help to refine pores, reduce pigmentation, and boost collagen and elastin production; in the clinics we use Obagi and Epionce peels.
How can we keep prevent dull winter skin and prologue ‘summer glowing’ skin?
Exfoliate the skin three times weekly to remove dead skin and encourage cell turnover, including your neck. It’s also important to use a retinol serum at night. Another key tip is to make sure to continue to use a moisturiser containing a sunscreen every day, as the sun is lower in the sky in the cooler months and can still exert its effects on the skin. Another option is to have a course of laser or Intense Pulsed Light treatments to reduce thread veins, pigmentation and keep skin looking fresh and rejuvenated.
What are your top five easy skincare tips to incorporate into our daily winter routines?
- Take tepid showers — overly hot water can be harsh on dry skin
- Apply a night cream containing vitamins A and E before bed
- Use a creamy cleanser
- Avoid heavily fragranced skincare products which can dry out the skin
- Shower with an emollient cream such as Cetraben or an aqueous cream, which can be applied as a body wash to seal moisture into the skin on face and body

Do you have any favourite products which will prevent dull skin this winter?
Emma Coleman Skin Hyaluronic Acid keeps skin hydrated for up to 4 days, due to its unique emollient properties. Also, the Emma Coleman Skin Daily Vitamin C helps to fight free radical damage.
Is there any non-beauty tips you could give to benefit skin over winter?
- Sip peppermint and fennel tea which helps to keep skin hydrated
- Take a course of oral probiotics
- Include lots of leafy greens in your diet
- Get 6–8 hours of sleep each night
- Try my hydrating skin juice: 1 apple, a handful of baby spinach, 0.5cm of grated ginger and 200ml coconut water