Winter non-negotiables

If you’re keen to make it through winter without getting stuck with the sniffles, dragged down by dry skin, or looking about as lively as a corpse, you’re going to need a few products on your side. We call these the ‘winter non-negotiables’, because if they’re not used diligently, there will probably be consequences. So before the chill truly sets in, here are the must-haves to stock up on to stay at the top of your game:

#1 Vicks VapoRub

What’s makes a clogged nose and foggy head worse? Not getting enough sleep because you can’t breathe properly. This little tub of goodness will help to relieve your congestion and it’s great for the kids, too.

#2 Crabtree & Evelyn Pear & Pink Magnolia Hand Therapy

Even when you’re all rugged up, your mitts are often left to fend for themselves in the elements. So to keep them smooth and supple, carry a hand cream with you. Massaging it in will also help to increase circulation so your hands won’t feel like ice.

#3 Nude by Nature Soft Focus Illuminator

Dullness is a battle we all face in the dreary winter season, so it’s essential to have a liquid illuminator at the ready. Apply some to the cheekbones and brow bone to brighten and awaken your entire look.

#4 Nourish Naturals Dry Skin Lotion

Thanks to the wind, a lack of moisture in the air and a hot shower habit, our skin can get severely dry, cracked and even itchy in winter. Moisturising every day becomes even more important and choosing one made with naturally derived, hydrating ingredients is a choice you won’t regret.

#5 jane iredale Circle/Delete Concealer

Losing that summer glow not only makes your skin lighter, but it can increase the appearance of those dreaded dark circles. And because getting out of bed in winter is hard enough, you really don’t need everyone telling you how tired you look. So combat the shadows (and ward off the ‘opinions’) with a creamy concealer that won’t budge.

#6 Metamucil

When every second person you come across is coughing and sniffing, it’s up to your immune system to protect you from catching whatever they’ve got. To give it the best chance, boost your inner health by drinking a glass of Metamucil every day.

#7 A colourful, warm scarf

Unless your winter wardrobe is full of turtlenecks, you’ll need a scarf to stay warm and cosy when you head outside. Opting for one with a colourful pattern will help to lift your mood on the greyest of days.

#8 Charles Worthington Shine Booster All Over Gloss Spray

Most of us use hot tools more in winter (blasting with a hairdryer, anyone?), causing hair to dry out and look a little lacklustre. To keep your locks looking shiny and healthy with minimal effort, spritz all over with a shine spray. This one also helps to tame those flyaways that run havoc in the wind.

#9 Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Cream Blush

Want to inject a little life back into your complexion? A pop of colour on the cheeks can make a world of difference. In winter, go for a cream version that will glide onto the skin for a dewy and long-lasting finish.

#10 Hot chocolate

On the really gloomy days, it’s hard to stay away from hot comfort foods that are laden with calories. So to curb any cravings, keep some hot chocolate on hand. It tastes good, warms you up and a whole cup usually clocks in at under 200 calories.

#11 Carmex® Lip Balm Jar

Chapped lips are so uncomfortable, and flaking means your lipstick wouldn’t be smooth, so a lip balm is definitely a non-negotiable. Remember to give your lips a quick scrub with your toothbrush every now and then to exfoliate them – a hard-working lip balm will do the rest.

#12 HoMedics Ultra Sonic Cool Mist Humidifier

If you’re not sleeping very well (even though you’re buried under a million blankets), it could be down to the air in your bedroom. A humidifier can help to create the ideal climate and make your breathing (and snoozing) a lot easier.

What’s your hero winter product? Have you tried any of the winter beauty products above?