We’re well and truly in the throws of the coldest months of the year, with temperatures plunging and our hair and skin exposed to the harshest of elements.

So how do the experts winterproof their routines? We spoke with Advanced Dermal Therapist and Founder of Glow Medispa Elisa Osmo to try and uncover the secrets to radiant skin this winter, as well as what we can expect to see next in terms of skincare innovation.

Embrace the cold, glow up and unlock your most flawless complexion yet with Glow Medispa’s expert guidance this winter. 

TJ: Chat us through the Glow Medispa experience.

EO: The Glow Medispa experience is highly personalised and tailored to meet the unique skin needs and concerns of each individual. I take the time to understand specific skincare goals and challenges, creating a bespoke treatment plan designed to deliver the best possible results. 

Glow Medispa focuses on providing a space where achieving results is seamlessly combined with elements of relaxation and self-care. In today’s busy day-to-day lives, it is essential to take some time out for oneself, and even one hour per month dedicated to skincare can make a significant difference. Being a part of someone’s self-care routine and witnessing the positive impact on their overall well-being is incredibly rewarding.

Education is a key component of the Glow Medispa experience. I am passionate about educating clients on their skin and routines, aiming to maximise at-home care to ensure the best results. They strive to keep routines minimal and simple, making them easy to follow but highly effective.

Overall, at Glow Medispa, it is all about personalised care, achieving results, and empowering clients with the knowledge to maintain healthy, glowing skin.

TJ: How often do you recommend clients come in for professional treatments, and does this change in Winter vs Summer?

EO: I typically recommended that clients come in for professional treatments every 4-6 weeks. This frequency aligns with the skin’s natural cell turnover cycle, allowing for effective addressing of concerns and maintenance of optimal skin health.

However, the needs of the skin can change with the seasons. In winter, skin often becomes drier, requiring more hydration and nourishment. Therefore, treatments focusing on intense hydration and repairing the skin’s barrier are suggested. Conversely, summer brings different challenges, such as increased sun exposure and potential for congestion. During this season, treatments emphasise protection, exfoliation, and managing oil production.

While the basic recommendation of every 4-6 weeks remains consistent, the specific treatments and focus can vary to adapt to the seasonal needs of the skin. This tailored approach ensures that clients receive the most beneficial care for their skin throughout the year.

TJ: How do you advise clients care for their skin at home in the colder months vs the harsh summer months?

EO: During the colder months, I advise clients to focus on hydration and protection. The drop in temperature and humidity can lead to dry, flaky skin, making it essential to use a nourishing moisturiser. Incorporating a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, panthenol, and glycerine can also help lock in moisture. It is recommended to avoid overly hot showers and to use a gentle, cream-based cleanser to maintain the skin’s natural barrier. Additionally, using a humidifier at home can combat dry indoor air.

In the harsh summer months, the key is to protect and balance the skin. Sunscreen is a must, even on cloudy days, to shield the skin from UV damage. A lightweight, non-comedogenic, zinc-based sunscreen is suggested. Switching to a lighter moisturiser can help prevent clogged pores due to increased oil production. Incorporating antioxidants like vitamin C or niacinamide can protect against environmental damage. Regular exfoliation is also beneficial to remove excess oil and dead skin cells, but it’s important not to overdo it, as this can lead to irritation.

Overall, tailoring your skincare routine to the seasons helps maintain healthy, glowing skin year-round.

TJ: What have you found to be the ultimate game changing technique/ingredient/tool for skincare?

EO: I’ve found that a few key techniques, ingredients, and tools have truly revolutionised skincare. For at-home use, retinol stands out as a game-changer. It is incredibly effective in promoting cell turnover, reducing fine lines, and improving overall skin texture. Incorporating retinol into a skincare routine can produce noticeable, long-term benefits.

Another impactful at-home tool is the gua-sha. This traditional Chinese facial tool helps stimulate blood circulation, reduce puffiness, and promote lymphatic drainage. Regular use of gua-sha can enhance the skin’s natural glow, depuff, and firm the skin to improve its overall appearance.

In terms of professional treatments, the buccal facial technique has been transformative. This innovative approach involves massaging the inside of the mouth to release tension, improve muscle tone, and boost circulation. It offers a unique way to address facial contours and achieve a more lifted, youthful look.

Combining these advanced techniques and tools allows for providing clients with highly effective and customised skincare solutions, both at home and in the clinic.

TJ: Do you have any upcoming predictions for trends in the skincare space? 

EO: I see several exciting trends emerging in the skincare space. One of the most significant trends is the growing popularity of holistic and integrative approaches to skincare. People are becoming increasingly aware of the connection between overall wellness and skin health. This includes not only topical treatments but also lifestyle changes, nutrition, and stress management. As a result, treatments that incorporate mindfulness and relaxation, along with targeted skincare, are likely to become more mainstream.

Sustainable and eco-friendly skincare products are also gaining momentum. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their beauty products, leading to a demand for sustainable packaging and clean, ethically sourced ingredients. Brands that prioritise these aspects will likely see increased loyalty and interest from conscious consumers.

In terms of professional treatments, non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures are expected to continue growing in popularity. Treatments like micro needling, radiofrequency, and advanced facials such as the buccal facial are becoming more sophisticated, offering impressive results with minimal downtime.

Overall, the skincare industry is moving towards personalised, holistic, and sustainable practices.

TJ: Regardless of budget/time, what is the one thing that you recommend we all do for our skin?

EO: Regardless of budget or time constraints, one essential recommendation for everyone is to wear sunscreen daily. Sunscreen is the most effective way to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause premature aging, sunburn, and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Incorporating sunscreen into your daily routine, even on cloudy days or when indoors, can significantly impact maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply it every two hours if spending extended time outdoors.

This simple yet crucial step in your skincare routine can provide long-term benefits, preserving your skin’s health and appearance for years to come.

For more tips and treatments, visit Glow Medispa.