These bleak days of hiver test both our will to live and our skin’s ability to stay hydrated. And much like how a generous pour of Okanagan Pinot can top up our emotional reservoir, these waxy balms restore and seal in lost moisture. Soapwalla founder Rachel Winard’s The Balm, which she calls a “miracle product,” took hundreds of formula tweaks and three years to fine-tune. The jellylike moisturizer reduces redness and soothes damaged tissue so your skin won’t look like Jon Snow’s when he’s coming back from beyond the Wall. “Infusions of calendula, arnica and St. John’s wort work synergistically to reduce swelling and calm redness,” says Winard.

 

Healing balms we’re hoarding like fine wine: 

1. L’Occitane

null

L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Eye Balm ($90), at loccitane.com.

 

2. Soapwalla

null

Soapwalla The Balm Concentrated Repair Balm ($78), at soapwallakitchen.com.

 

3. Neal’s Yard

null

Neal’s Yard Remedies Wild Rose Beauty Balm ($72), at nealsyardremedies.com.

 

4. Éminence

null

Éminence Organic Skin Care Rosehip & Lemongrass Repair Balm ($88), at thefacialroom.ca.