Winter and cold weather can be harsh on your skin. Cold air, wind, and indoor heating all strip away moisture, leading to dryness, flakiness, tightness, and even irritation. But with a few smart adjustments to your routine, you can protect your skin and maintain a healthy, hydrated glow all winter long.
In this article, you’ll learn how to take care of your skin during cold weather with practical, easy-to-follow steps—no expensive products or complex routines required.
What Cold Weather Does to Your Skin
- Reduces humidity, drying out the outer layer of skin
- Weakens the skin barrier, leading to more sensitivity
- Causes tightness and flaking, especially around the nose, lips, and cheeks
- Exacerbates conditions like eczema, rosacea, or dermatitis
Your skin needs extra moisture, gentle care, and protection during this time.
Step 1: Switch to a Cream or Oil-Based Cleanser
Foaming cleansers can be too drying during winter. Instead, use:
- Cream, milk, or balm cleansers
- Oil-based cleansers (great for removing makeup while keeping skin soft)
Tip: Cleanse only twice a day (morning and night) to avoid stripping natural oils.
Step 2: Use a Richer Moisturizer
Lighter gels are great for summer—but cold air calls for something more nourishing.
Look for moisturizers with:
- Ceramides
- Shea butter
- Glycerin
- Squalane
- Hyaluronic acid + occlusives (to seal in hydration)
Apply:
- Immediately after washing your face
- Again in the evening (consider using a sleeping mask overnight)
Step 3: Don’t Skip Sunscreen
Yes, you still need sunscreen—even in winter!
Why:
- UV rays still penetrate clouds
- Snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation
- Protects your skin barrier from damage
Use:
- SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum
- Mineral-based formulas if your skin is extra sensitive
Step 4: Use a Humidifier Indoors
Indoor heating systems reduce air moisture, drying out your skin even while you sleep.
Place a humidifier in:
- Your bedroom
- Your work area
- Any heated space where you spend hours
Tip: Add a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil for extra relaxation.
Step 5: Exfoliate Gently—Not Too Often
Over-exfoliating during winter can cause more harm than good. But skipping it entirely can lead to buildup and dullness.
Stick to:
- 1x per week
- Gentle exfoliants like lactic acid or enzyme masks
- Avoid physical scrubs or strong peels
Always follow with a hydrating mask or moisturizer.
Step 6: Take Care of Lips, Hands, and Under Eyes
These areas dry out fast in cold weather.
- Lips: Use a balm with beeswax, shea butter, or lanolin. Reapply often.
- Hands: Keep hand cream nearby and apply after each wash.
- Under eyes: Use a richer eye cream with ceramides or hyaluronic acid.
Step 7: Avoid Long, Hot Showers
Hot water feels great, but it strips natural oils from your skin.
What to do:
- Use lukewarm water for face and body
- Limit showers to 10–15 minutes
- Apply moisturizer immediately after toweling off
Winter Skincare Routine Example
Morning:
- Gentle cream cleanser
- Hydrating toner or mist
- Rich moisturizer
- SPF 30+
- Lip balm
Evening:
- Oil or cream cleanser
- Moisturizing serum (optional)
- Thick moisturizer or sleeping mask
- Eye cream
- Lip balm
What to Avoid in Winter
- Alcohol-based toners or astringents
- Strong acne treatments unless prescribed
- Harsh scrubs
- Fragranced lotions if you have sensitive skin
- Skipping sunscreen (yes, again!)
Final Thought: Winter Skin Needs Extra Love
Cold weather can be tough on your skin, but it’s also a chance to slow down and give your routine a cozy upgrade. Protecting your skin barrier and locking in moisture are the keys to maintaining softness, radiance, and comfort all season long.
Treat your skin with the same care you give your warm sweaters—soft, supportive, and built for the season.