South Africa’s Winter conditions can be just as harsh on your skin and hair as Summer – perhaps even more so. As the cold sets in, dryer conditions lead to excessive moisture loss that in terns leads to dry skin, chapped lips, and dry, brittle hair. So batten down the hatches and get ready for the long, cold and dark days, but here are a few select products to keep you looking great.

Moisturise people! Winter is coming!

For the Body

Get rid of the dead skin cells that accumulate far more quickly during dry, cold months. The Clarins Exfoliating Body Scrub promises a firmer, softer and smoother skin, (RRP R415.00) available at www.clarins.co.za

After a good scrub down, your body skin will require a little TLC, so replace moister and essential oils with a body balm that was created with the African climate in mind – the Africology Body Butter. (RRP R 280.00) available at www.Africologyspa.com

For the Hands and Feat

The hands probably take the most battering over the winter months, and the loss of moister and continued exposure to dry, cold air can lead to cracked and broken skin, and premature aging. Also, the feet need a little more attention too, so keep the feat clear of dead skin cells with a scrub specifically design to remove tough and stubborn skin. L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream (RRP R330.00) available at za.loccitane.com, and the Wema Peppermint Foot Treatment (RRP R90.00) available at www.wemabodycare.com

For the Face

Without a doubt, pay even more attention to the face and neck during the winter months. Not only will exposure to dry, cold air dramatically increase the aging process, but without the necessary routine, your skin may also be prone to increase breakouts. Also, your lips will require constant moisturising to avoid unsightly chapping and bleeding. Clarins Men Line-Control for Dry Skin (RRP R 425.00) available at www.clarins.co.za, Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser, (RRP R265.00) at Edgars, Vichy Aqualia Thermal Lip Balm, (RRP R 115.00) at Edgars, and L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Moisturising Cream (RRP R119,95) at Clicks and Dischem.

For the Hair and Scalp

Trust the British to know a thing or two about cold weather and the damage it can cause on the hair and scalp. During the winter months, use a shampoo and conditioner enriched with vitamin E and containing a stack of moisturising agents – Truefitt & Hill Replenishing Conditioner (RRP295.00), available from Victorian Bathrooms.