Bombarded by frosty temperatures, harsh winds, changes in humidity and the parching effect of central heating, winter skin is in a continual state of flux that results in it looking and feeling dry and dull. But don't let the winter chap and chafe you. Stay smooth, soft and supple with our essential winter skin survival secrets.

Dr. Maes, Vice President of Research And Development Estee Lauder Worldwide says: "What seems to generate these changes in the skin's condition is not only the exposure to low temperature, but rather the abrupt changes in humidity from the summer to winter."

But the key to a healthy, glowing winter complexion requires a whole lot more than simply slathering on extra moisturiser. Good winter skincare begins with gentle cleansing, but it is important to steer clear of harsh cleaners and soaps. Even if you swear by soap and water, your face will thank you for switching to a gentle, water-soluble cleanser - or a cream version - at least until the first signs of Spring.

Soap strips the complexion of its natural, protective oils - which no moisturiser can replace - leaving it exposed and vunerable to the elements. Instead, opt for products such as Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser (£13) and Marks & Spencer's Creamy Cleansing Wash (£3.50).

The winter can play havoc with our skin, leading to dry, chapped skin and fine lines. To avoid dehydrated winter skin moisturising is a must. Dr. Maes explains: "Moisturising is important not only for the water brought to the skin, but rather for the long term benefits - as it restores the ability of the Stratum Corneum to retain the water inside the skin and prevent its diffusion to the outside." Estee Lauder's 100% Time Release Moisturiser Creme for Very Dry Skin is the perfect antidote to dryness, ensuring the much-needed water skin craves is retained.

Many of us forget to protect our skin from sun damage during the winter months. Whilst you don't need to slap sunscreen all over yourself, do try to wear a makeup or moisturiser with SPF 15 on your face throughout the winter.

Bundled up from head to toe, we often forget to take care of the rest of our body during the winter months. To remedy this, try to avoid taking long, hot showers.

They may sound appealing, but they strip skin of its natural moisturising lipids, drying it further and creating a tight, stretched feel. Instead, take a short, warm shower; pat your skin almost dry, then put on a good body moisturiser while your skin is still damp. Astral All Over Moisturiser (£1.49 - 50ml pot) prevents water evaporation, keeping skin soft and supple. Users, including Patsy Kensit, Kate Beckinsale, Sara Cox and Joanna Lumley, swear by Astral to provide them with softer skin.

Graham Findley, Astral's skincare expert, said: "Because Astral contains more oil than water it covers the skin with an impermeable film that prevents water evaporating - therefore your skin stays hydrated, is less prone to wrinkles caused by dehydration and is generally silkier, smoother and more supple."

Vaseline Intensive Care Essential Moisture (£1.19 - 75ml tube) is another trusted formula, which provides long-lasting relief from everyday dry skin. Vaseline Intensive Care skin is essential if you want to avoid the itchy, dry, scaly skin which is synonomous with winter. Vaseline Intensive Care skin expert Dr Maria Labedzka explained: "Regular application of an effective body moisturiser, such as Vaseline Essential Moisture, will help to maintain the skin's optimum moisture levels, leaving it smooth soft and healthy-looking."

In addition, you will need a super-emollient lotion for hands, heels, or anywhere else you experience especially dry, cracked skin.

In winter, both central heating and cold outdoor weather can rob our hair of moisture and make it dry and full of static. To avoid this, think of your hair as you would your skin. A daily moisturiser, applied to the mid-length and end sections of hair and left on for a few minutes before rinsing, will replenish dry hair. Use a heavier, richer moisturiser once a week. Apply the conditioner and wrap your hair in a towel (or a plastic bag) for 10 minutes. This will create a humid, moist environment and allow the conditioner to penetrate deeply.

For everyday use, try Timotei Revitalising Herbs Shampoo and Conditioner. The special combination of herbs helps enhance shine and strength, and the shampoo and conditioner are mild enough to wash your hair everyday.

A drop or two of a serum used while styling also gets top moisturising marks and will help tame the frizz. Try Toni & Guy Insights Moisturising Serum (£6.99) for a glossy, shimmering effect.

Top