I'm one of Ireland's top models — here are my secrets to glowing skin every winter
Teodora Sutra: Hydration is key during the colder months
What does a change in season mean for our skincare? While you might not need to completely overhaul your routine for the colder months, there are a few adjustments that can help keep your skin looking plump and retain a summer glow.
As temperatures drop, we crank up the radiators, which in turn dries out the indoor air. Therefore, hydration is key.
This is a no-brainer, but drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help keep your skin looking its best. Even better try adding coconut water to your diet. Coconut water has antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation. There are also supplements that claim to provide a glow from within. I’ve recently started taking the Advanced Nutrition Programme's Skin Clear Biome supplement which supports gut-skin health. It takes a few weeks to see results so I can’t guarantee it works but here’s hoping.
When it comes to skincare, ensuring that all your steps support moisture levels will help keep your skin plump and hydrated.
Recently, I came across an interview with a dermatologist who recommended cleansing the face with just water in the morning, rather than using products. If you’ve applied a good serum and night cream before bed, why wash away all that goodness, right? Cleansing is essential for removing makeup, dirt, and SPF, but while cleansers are effective, they can also strip away both beneficial and harmful bacteria, potentially disrupting the skin’s natural microbiome.
It’s best to opt for a mild non-stripping cleanser like the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, which effectively removes makeup and dirt while containing essential ceramides to protect the skin barrier and hyaluronic acid to retain moisture.
The drop in temperature can cause skin reactions in some, such as breakouts or dry patches. A non-abrasive exfoliation once or twice a week can help address these issues and give your skin the reset it needs. My personal favourite is the Pestle & Mortar Exfoliate Glycolic Acid Toner which removes dead skin cells while being gentle on the skin. Plus it’s Irish!
If you prefer physical exfoliation, the Neostrata Glycolic Microdermabrasion Polish is excellent.
One of my favourite skincare steps year-round is using a face spray. Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Hydrator Mist is a lovely treat. It contains moisture-attracting ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin and niacin-amide to help strengthen the skin barrier. I use a few spritzes under my serum to boost its hydration properties and throughout the day to keep my skin feeling and looking fresh.
Regarding serums, I cannot go a day without the Lancôme Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Serum. Inspired by microbiome science, it contains pre- and probiotic extracts, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. It promises to reduce fine lines, improve radiance, and even out skin tone. After using it for over three years, I can attest that it works for me.
Another serum I recommend, suitable for all skin types, is the Clarins Double Serum. It is composed of 95% naturally sourced ingredients and combines 22 powerful plant extracts for anti-aging results Even though summer is gone, it doesn’t mean we should forget to use SPF. Every dermatologist would recommend SPF as their number one skincare product to use all year round, including in winter.
Now let’s chat about moisturiser creams. During the summer months, I personally prefer to use a moisturising fluid. Something light and comfortable so it doesn’t melt off my face in the heat. But winter is a whole other story, to address the decrease in natural moisture during colder spells, consider using a richer face cream. A great example is the Recovery Cream from Modern Botany. This powerful plant-based cream is filled with calming ingredients like calendula and camomile to soothe even the most sensitive skin.
Another favourite Irish brand of mine is Seabody, which has created a beautiful face cream that’s rich and delightful on the skin. Their Glycan Enrich Moisturiser, with Maraderm, squalane, and ceramides, deeply nourishes the skin for a hydrated, radiant complexion.
Chapped lips are never attractive, so make sure to grab Elizabeth Arden’s 8-Hour Cream—you’ll thank me later. As a self-confessed lip balm addict, I can say that this has been my favourite lip treatment since I began modelling at 15. Makeup artists used it to prep lips before shoots and shows, and it remains a top choice for many professionals today.
