Skin scientist shares 5 completely free ways to 'boost your complexion' as temperatures drop

Dr Majad Hussain from the prescription dermatology service MiQuest stated: "Never before has there been such a wide range of products designed to tackle different skin conditions, but not everyone can or wants to spend the money to access them.

"The good news is that it doesn’t have to cost money to improve your complexion, and there are several free tips and tricks that are easy and effective."

As the colder, harsher months creep up on us, many people are at risk of developing "dry, flaky, itchy, and sensitive skin", the expert warned.

To "protect the skin barrier and maintain moisture" during this time, adjusting your grooming routine is an easy, effective solution.

Improving your diet, maintaining excellent hygiene, and reconsidering your makeup usage can also "boost your complexion".

Here, Dr Hussain shared five free hacks for better skin this autumn and winter.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:

• 'I'm a skin doctor – I maintain a glowing, radiant complexion with a 5-step routine'
• Well-known deodorant pulled from shelves as customers complain of skin irritation – 'Stop using!'
• Noticing hair loss? Dermatologist reveals why it's happening and what you can do about it

Swap hot water for cold water

"Washing our faces in the morning is a key part of many grooming routines, but doing it wrong can have a negative impact on your skin.

"Cold water is great for waking up and refreshing the skin, as well as reducing puffiness and inflammation.

"Excessively hot water, meanwhile, risks stripping your skin of its natural oils and causing it to dry out and become flaky."

Change your pillowcase

"Our pillowcases are home to lots of dead skin, bacteria and even tiny mites that can flare up our skin as we sleep.

"It's recommended to change them at least once a week and wash them in a hot setting to kill microbes.

"Try to avoid harsh detergents to reduce the risk of irritation, and wash your face before bed to get rid of pollutants that have accumulated on your face throughout the day."

Give your face a massage

"While many people enjoy a trip to a spa to enjoy a relaxing massage, you can easily do it yourself and give your skin a boost.

"Use your fingers to give yourself a gentle massage under the eye area in a clockwise direction a few times. This can help boost circulation and reduce inflammation."

Cut out junk food

"What we eat and drink plays a huge role in maintaining a healthy complexion, and eating too many processed foods can lead to skin problems.

"Eating too much sugar can lead to a process called glycation, where it binds to important proteins such as collagen and elastin, causing them to break down and lead to visible signs of ageing, such as fine lines.

"Meanwhile, excessive salt consumption can increase irritation and cause skin to produce more oil, leading to breakouts."

Tone down the makeup

"Too much makeup can be bad news for your skin, clogging pores and leaving it unable to breathe.

"Also, many products contain chemicals that can contribute to problems such as acne, dryness and dehydration.

"Perhaps try to tone down your makeup routine, switch to more natural products or even go bare-faced a few days a week."