Baby it’s cold outside. Who else’s feeling the winter blue with flaky and extra sensitive skin here in the Southern part of the world?
To make sure your skin survive this harsh winter dryness, there’s in fact a better strategy than just hibernating through the season (though I totally wouldn’t mind doing that once in a while on a lazy Sunday afternoon!). To get my skin up to full hydration even before the daylight starts to drop, I’ve switched to my winter skincare regime as early as in May during late spring here in Queensland. On the hunt for the most natural and toxin-free products to fight this anti-flakiness battle, I turned to my recently-obsessed certified organic brand Antipodes for the best winter skin buddies (check out my reviews on their Superfruit Serum & Kiwiseed Eye Cream). Here I’m sharing my 3-step daily skincare routine to break the curse from the most ferocious Snow Queen – read on!
Step 1: Cleanse
Antipodes Grapeseed Butter Cleanser, $46.00
Key ingredients:
Cacao butter with soothing oils and quintessential Vinanza Grape antioxidant from New Zealand’s sauvignon blanc grape seeds. Also contains lavender and blue chamomile. This cleanser is scientifically shown to have amongst the world’s highest levels of antioxidants from its grapeseeds. 100% ingredients from natural origin while 76% is from organic cultivation.
My verdict:
First of all, I can’t stress enough the importance of switching to a nourishing cleanser for winter months. You want one that doesn’t over-strip moisture from your skin. I usually go for a cream based one for those frosty winter mornings.
I was totally fascinated by this Grapeseed Butter Cleanser when I first got my hands on it. Its consistency is nothing like anything I’ve ever used. It actually glides on my skin and feels like I’m applying melted bee wax – smooth & soothing! Oh, and the subtle note of lavender scent takes my mind straight to a Balinese day spa while I gently massage it on.
You can actually see the tiny bits of grapeseeds in the tub, and it feels like rubbing large exfoliating beads on your skin. This cleanser feels extra gentle on my skin and I even feel that the grapeseeds pieces have helped to improve the texture, leaving my skin supple and oh-so-soft to touch! Mind you though, it feels very heavy and leaves a layer of cocoa butter like film after rinsing it off with warm water. If you aren’t usually a fan of cream based cleanser, you’ll find this even richer and heavier. Personally, I really like how this cleanser almost works as a 2-in-1 cleansing plus toning agent. It doesn’t give even the slightest sensation of tightness on my skin before I spray on my toning mist. However, I’d use it only for those super dry days and pack it in my travel beauty bag for a ski trip, while I’ll still stick to my cream based cleanser on those not-so-dry winter days. It’d be perfect for mature or sensitive skin.
Step 2: Tone
Antipodes Ananda Antioxidant-rich Gentle Toner, $29.00
Key ingredients:
Enriched with manaku black fern, Bulgarian rose and Waiwera mineral water. 100% ingredients from natural origin while 77% is from organic cultivation. Dermatologically approved for sensitive skin.
My verdict:
First impression – I was fairly impressed with their beautiful amber colour glass bottle! Love supporting beauty brands who do their part on reducing the use of plastic in packaging. The glass bottle also gives this toner an ‘eco luxe’ feel. I treat myself with 3 to 4 generous spritz on my face after cleansing and I really like how fine the mist is. It comes with a subtle rosewater scent which lingers for a little bit (bliss!). My skin soaks up all the natural goodness in the toner like a sponge within seconds which is amazing. The result? It leaves my skin looking clear, hydrated and radiant. Over time, I found that my skin elasticity has improved. I also bring it with me to my hot yoga class to give my skin an immediate moisture boost after workout – what a pure delight! I do usually get a bit of annoying skin redness that lasts for a while after exercising – this seriously soothing toner helps a lot to calm it much quicker than usual. For all those beauty bunnies whose skin is susceptible to sensitivity, you’ll totally adore this gentle toner with amazing anti-inflammatory effect.
Step 3: Moisturise
Antipodes Rejoice Light Facial Day Cream, $49.00
Key ingredients:
Contain manuka flower oil which has antibacterial and healing properties, and avocado oil with extraordinary collagen boosting powers Scientifically shown to stimulate synthesis of collagen production in human skin cells by up to 59%. 100% ingredients from natural origin while 71% is from organic cultivation.
My verdict:
Don’t be fooled by its name – it doesn’t belong to the light side of the scale when it comes to the consistency of this day cream. I’d say it’s more like a medium consistency which resembles some moisturiser for night use. And that is exactly what makes it work perfectly in my winter SOS skincare regime. Its ultra-hydrating quality is outstanding which helps to lock in moisture all day while keeping my t-zone oil free for hours. It’s the saviour product for those with combination skin type who wants to part with their dry patches and shiny forehead. I really enjoy its glowy effect on my skin while being non-sticky (which usually comes with any moisturiser with thicker consistency). Oh, and did I mention its drool-worthy scent with notes of vanilla and sweet almond oil? So pleasantly sweet that you might find your puppy licking all over your skin! Similar to other Antipodes products, I simply adore how this day cream gives me a spiritual lift at the start of the day full of positive vibes as well as giving a nutritious treat for the skin! The only thing they could possibly improve on is the packaging. It comes in a toothpaste type of tube while I find a pumping bottle much easier to use to dispense just the right amount of product.
Now who want to take home this beautiful Antipodes Rejoice Light Facial Day Cream? Simply enter in the form below for a chance to win & bon chance! ⇓
And here’s a little gift for you all to PIN or PRINT and get motivated on your green beauty journey! ⇓
So tell me dear fellow green beauty junkies, what are some toxin-free products that come to your rescue as part of your winter skincare regime? What have you learned while switching to different skincare routines during those chilly months? Have you used and loved any products from the Antipodes range? Be sure to drop me a line with your tips and experience in the comment below.
Until next time. Stay beautiful inside & out!
P.S. Make sure you sign up to our mailing list HERE is to be among the first to know about our monthly toxin-free beauty giveaway!
Disclaimer: Lace n Ruffles was gifted by the brands mentioned in the post while all opinions are genuinely our own. We can’t guarantee that all products we recommend will suit you. We only use products we personally think are good having tried them on myself or by our beauty team while everyone’s skin is different and it’s possible to be allergic to anything. Wherever possible, test products out on yourself before purchasing. We always trial products such as moisturiser and serum for at least seven days before reviewing, while some other products like face wash and makeup might only be trialed once.
Interesting and the product looks awesome however I simply am not disciplined enough to apply three things so here is what I do in the winter. I live in Sun Valley, Idaho in the winter months. Summer in Seattle but anyway, the winter is brutal for my skin because I go from moist Seattle to dirt dry Idaho.
I apply VASELINE PERTROLIAM JELLY to my face at night before bed.
In the morning I apply Neutrogena sun block.
Works for me but then I don’t have oily skin.
I don’t usually switch my skin care regimen for winter, I should probably start though.
As I am in my 50s in winter my skin goes really dry so I use serum to help the dryness
Have not seen these products before look interesting I also don’t change my routine according to the seasons just use the same products
My winter tip is to use an oil or serum and my favourite is Antipodes Joyous Night Replenish Serum. I love the look of the cleanser you have reviewed and have put it on my list to try!
I absolutely rely on body butter and quality face creams to see my dry skin through winter. Without these staples I turned into and itchy and scratchy mess.
Hello, first time here in his blog, and face already loved everything here
for sure I will come back more often
great post, I loved it
Kisses, is with God
Success!
http://eesmaltecia.blogspot.com.br/
I use a richer moisturiser in winter.I find that central heating really dries out my skin and I sometimes have some scaly rough patches that require more attention.
During winter I add oils to my skincare regime – rosehip and jojoba are my favourites for extra hydration..
I honestly did not know I needed to change my products for winter, I found your review really interesting, Thank you!
During these periods of cold dry winter winds, nothing beats a smear of rosehip oil on my skin. It provides a wonderful barrier, a nourishing feel, and the fragrance gives me a lovely psychological boost.
I do tend to switch to a richer body cream during winter. Not so much with facial moisturisers, as I use facial oils all year round, and they do a good job nourishing my dry skin
I don’t change my regime for winter but maybe I should!!
My skincare stays the same all-year-round. I’m 45 with mature and super-dry skin so I have to keep up the luxuriously rich facial products constantly.
I love the sound of the Antipodes products – I’ve only been lucky enough to try one of their products and it was a facial oil – beautiful – but they’re expensive …..The cleanser looks awesome and looks perfect for my dry skin. Fingers crossed and wish everyone Good Luck too 🙂
I find I do tend to use more moisturiser andheavier creams throughout winter, to battle dry skin patches which flare up over the cold weather! My fav part of winter beauty though?- not having to shave my legs 😉
I find I do tend to use more moisturiser andheavier creams throughout winter, to battle dry skin patches which flare up over the cold weather! My fav part of winter beauty though?- not having to shave my legs 😉
I find I do tend to use more moisturiser and heavier creams throughout winter, to battle dry skin patches which flare up over the cold weather! My fav part of winter beauty though?- not having to shave my legs 😉
I don’t change my skincare as such but I do find that I ‘slather’ my skincare on a bit more in the cooler months. I love the Antipodes honey mask (very hydrating) and their Joyful hand cream so would love to try some more of their range.
Richer moisturiser in winter as skin seems to need it. I love the look of these beautiful skin creams.
I moisturize more in Winter because of the heating and harsh cold outside…. But I don’t change
I switch to a thicker face cream during winter because my face gets flakey dry from the cold cold wind!
I don’t switch products but I need to “exfoliate” winter out and “moisturise” into the renewing Spring with some toxin-free products to help rejuvenate me, both physically, mentally and emotionally! Thus, “cleansing” my soul!
Awesome tips there, Rachel! Yep – kind of feel like having rhino’s skin in winter months.. terrible! Will need to get on to exfoliating much more often and see how it helps – cheers for sharing your beauty wisdom 🙂
I’m diabetic, so I already have dry skin issues, but Winter definitely makes it worse. I do have to use more moisturizers, etc., in the Winter just to maintain half-way decent skin.
I used oils and sleeping mask at night.
I just added rose hip oil to my winter skincare and really finding it helping!
I always switch to a richer cleanser in winter and add a nourishing serum/oil as my skin can be prone to dehydration. I like to mix a radiance mask with a hydrating mask for the best results too. thanks
I use a richer moisturiser in winter and use an overnight hydrating mask also.
Hi Imogen, overnight mask sounds interesting! I’ve never used one, is that a paper one? What brands have you used? x
I don’t change my skin care routine for winter. I have just started using Antipodes products. I’m impressed! 🙂
Hello to my fellow Antipodes addicts! 🙂 I still can’t get over how impressed I was with their superfruit serum.I got to the last drop the other day and it was a sad face – defs getting on to my 2nd botte. What’s your fave so far? x
I use the same products all year round, but yes it might be a good idea to start using a different product for winter.
I tend to use facial oils more as my skin feels dry. So basically I like to feel spOILED!
Me too! 🙂 Love that luxe feeling on my skin with face oil that smells naturally pleasant 🙂 What sort of oils are your winter fave, Becky? x J
i just wash my face in warm water as its usually colder inside our home instead of outside
I have no other choice but to adapt my skincare regime to the weather, as the winters here, where I live, can be pretty harsh – temperature can drop down way below zero an cold winds are the worts part. 😉
Dry skin is the problem in winter, so I use good moisturizers and hydrating masks for night. But in my morning routine I use special winter face creams protecting from dryness and with high SPF factor (although the days are relatively short, the sun is still strong, as the beams reflect from snow and can even cause sunburn).
Definitely, I have to use hand cream after coming indoors, as my hands probably suffer most during winter.
Sometimes, I use suntan lotion istead of body lotion, as the smell, although usually not the most pleasent one, makes me think of summer 🙂
Such great tips, Magda! Thanks a bunch for sharing your beauty wisdom! I’d have to agree hand creams are life-savers, I have one in each of my most used handbags!
I hadn’t really thought about switching my current routine. It does make sense though, so fingers crossed for some new lovely products !
Loving my cream cleansers and face oil in winter months! Try for myself and let me know how that works for you – thanks for entering and good luck dolly! xJ
During the winter months I usually add more hydrating serums and face oil treatments…I love some of the Decleor balms and oils for the winter months.
God knows how long I’ve always wanted to try products from this brand but it is too pricey for my budget.Btw is this giveaway international? Anyway,I do have really dry skin and I used facial oils like sunflower oil,coconut oil and really rich ones like argan oil to really nourish my skin and keep dryness at bay.I am from Malaysia so no winter here but my skin is dry nonetheless :p
Hi Azline, thanks for commenting and good luck! They’re worth every dollar I’d say but keep an eye in Priceline or Myer as they go on sale like once every few months – best time to stock up! 🙂
Cream cleansers and rich moisturisers – anything to replace moisture that heating sucks out of your skin.
Cream cleansers are really life-savers in winter months, aren’t they? What’s your go-to brand, Laura? I’m dreading over the heater season as my husband loves to pump it up in our bedroom – eek 🙁