Have you used Naim skincare yet? It’s the amazing zero waste and refillable line that we carry in the apothecary. We asked founder and local dermatologist Sama Carley for her advice on caring for our skin in these cold dry months. Here’s what she said;

1. Use a heavy moisturizer twice daily

Make sure it’s non comedogenic

Avoid thinner or runny lotions that have more preservatives and alcohol which can lead to drier skin. Recommended brands include CeraVe or Vanicream face and body creams that come in large tubs to reduce waste and simplify regimens. For simpler and more plant based, coconut oil can be great for some people but some do break out with this! Always trial a test spot and wait a few days to make sure you don't react. Avoid all other oils/natural moisturizers as many of them do clog pores (Shea butter is notorious for this). The trick with moisturizers is they must be applied within 30 SECONDS after washing face and applying toners/actives. The longer you wait after water contact, the more the evaporation dries out your skin. Seal it all in ASAP!

2. Ease up on the actives!

Dry and irritated skin in winter does not handle actives as well.

Decide what you want to work on the most and focus on 1 actives product. If anti-aging is a focus, utilize just a retinol or adapalene product. If texture is an issue, products with alpha hydroxy acids will do the trick! Try the Naim Exfoliating AHA Serum nightly. Is inflammation, rosacea, or acne a problem? Try a gentle beta hydroxy acid toner with sulfur to reduce inflammation and breakouts (like the Naim Balancing Facial Toner with salicylic acid and sulfur). Is pigment irregularity an issue? Vitamin C products that are stabilized by ferulic offer help with this, and can also help with aging and sun damage. The Naim Pigment Correction Serum used nightly is a great tried and true option.

3. Double cleansing is key

to fully remove irritants and toxins built up throughout the day and all the heavy moisturizer for a clean face, break up your cleansing routine.

This is not only for people with dry skin, but those with oily skin will be surprised what a difference double cleansing with an oil does! Start first by using a dedicated oil to dissolve away all impurities - we love the Naim Botanical Cleansing Oil because of the anti aging effects of the rosehip oil and the relaxing scent. Follow this with your favorite cleanser, we recommend either the Naim pH balancing cleanser or any gentle fragrance free bar soap. This step will saponify and wash away the oil after the oil has pulled away and dissolved impurities.

4. Weekly Masks

for brightening effects to fight off that dull winter skin tone and smooth out texture!

The Naim Resveratrol Pumpkin Peel is a decadent treat for a self care night at home. You'll see instantly more supple and brighter, smoother skin after 10 to 15 mins of this mask! You can also reduce waste by making your own more gentle moisturizing mask at home.

5. SPF, SPF, SPF!

Although the shorter and darker days can leave us glum, the UV rays are still persistent this time of year.

Not only that, but if you suffer from pigment irregularity, the visible light from indoor lights can also worsen this issue. Mineral sunscreens with at least SPF 40 to 50 every day is a must! Steer clear of chemical sunscreens, and ideally find a mineral sunscreens that is tinted. The iron oxide used to tint sunscreen helps protect from damage visible light - imperative especially for those of us with skin of color. Some of our favorites include: ILIA Skin Tint, Josie Maran mineral tinted sunscreen, CeraVa mineral 50 tinted sunscreen, Neutrogena Sheer tint mineral. Although tempting, avoid homemade SPF and other "natural" alternatives. SPF is technically a topical medication and should be treated as such. Be sure to get enough vitamin D from fresh, healthy, varied foods in your diet and remember vitamin D needs fats to be absorbed well!