The weather is getting colder and your skin is getting dryer. With winter knocking on our door what is a girl to do to keep that fresh, dewy complextion all season long? We’ve got the answer from Kristen Ma, skin expert and owner of  Pure + Simple.

What daily regime do we need to add during the winter to keep our skin looking fresh and healthy?

Well, it is always important to maintain balance in our skin with  a good cleanser, toner and moisturizer.  But in the winter it is difficult to keep up the hydration in our skin.  I would recommend switching to a milk cleanser (even if you have oily skin), as this will prevent stripping our skin as well as even put more moisture into our skin while cleansing.  I also recommend switching to a heavy cream or using an oil over top of a lotion.  Oil is important as it creates a protective barrier against water-loss and damage to our skin caused by the harsh elements.  Lastly, I would increase exfoliation in dry and cold weather to keep the skin clear of a build up of dry, dead skin cells.  If this layer is not exfoliated it can also act as a barrier which impedes absorption of moisture.

What is your favourite winter moisturizer?

I love the Pure + Simple Sunflower Cream.  It is extremely nourishing without being too greasy.  Sunflower cream also has high amounts of vitamin e making it the perfect skin salve for winter time.

Aside from taking care of our skin on the outside, do you have any tips on things to do internally to keep our skin healthy?

It is so important to eat foods which are also moist, warm and nourishing.  While many of us try to simply drink more water when we feel dry or dehydrated, eating foods rich in water is an effective way to easily absorb and retain water in our bodies.  Also, I would consider getting a humidifier.  This helps so much with moisture but also can aid sensitivity, eczema and rosacea as inflammation is usually triggered by excess dryness.