This post is all about winter skincare and ways to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. This post contains affiliate links at no extra cost to you.
The temperatures are dropping and so is the moisture in the air so now is the perfect time to upgrade your winter skincare routine. We’re sharing 11 ways to help save your skin from the harsh winter weather to help keep it soft and glowing all season long.
Cold, winter weather can leave your skin feeling itchy, dry, and flaky. Colder months can really test your skin’s barrier so it is essential that we do what we can to help fight the elements.
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The skin barrier serves a very important function, most importantly, protecting the body from free radicals. If you have certain skin conditions, I would recommend consulting a board-certified dermatologist before starting any new skin treatment.
I recommend adjusting your winter skincare in order to prepare your skin for the dry and cold weather. Skin will need some extra TLC in the coming months so here’s how to winter-proof your skin.
MY WINTER SKINCARE ESSENTIALS
WINTER SKINCARE INGREDIENTS TO IMPROVE SKIN HEALTH
While many of these ingredients are great to wear year rounds, they are also key ingredients for replenishing and maintaining moisture during the dry winter months.
SKINCARE MUST-HAVES
- Ceramides
- Glycerin
- Squalane
SKINCARE INGREDIENTS TO LIMIT
- Alcohols
- Retinols
- Hydroxy Acids
Active ingredients such as retinol, astringents, and hydroxy acids can cause dryness and should be used in moderation during the cold, dry months.
WINTER SKINCARE TIPS
- Avoid the Hot Shower – I know there’s nothing like a steamy shower on a cold day to really relax you. But hot water instantly dehydrates your skin leading to added dryness. Instead, use warm water to keep from aggravating your skin.
- Layer on the Rich Moisturizer – I like to layer on the moisturizer day and night. I apply a lighter formula during the day to wear under my makeup. At night, I like to add a thick cream or body butter (use code MARIA_UABB for 10% off at OSEA) to lock in the moisture overnight. You can also add facial oils to your skincare routine to really lock in the moisture. I use these as the last step in my winter skincare routine. Don’t forget your lips! A good lip balm made from jojoba oil or coconut oil will help soothe dry lips.
- Use a Humidifier– If you live in dryer weather, placing a humidifier in your home is a great way to add moisture to dry air. Added points if you use hyaluronic acid on your face as this chemical pulls moisture from the air.
- Exfoliate – A gentle exfoliator will slough off dead skin cells to reveal new and smoother skin. I prefer to use alpha hydroxy acids for a facial exfoliator (gentler on the skin) and a physical exfoliator for my body. Then, layer on a thick body butter or body oil. Try dry brushing to get the best of both worlds!
- Don’t Forget the SPF – Winter months are usually accompanied by cloudy days. That doesn’t mean you should skip sunscreen. Continue to wear your sunscreen daily to avoid sun damage and fine lines.
SAVE YOUR SKIN THIS WINTER SEASON
- Cover Your Face From Wind – Cold wind can dry out your face fast! Be sure to cover your skin that’s exposed to the elements. This will help you avoid wind rash or aggravated eczema. Cold air will also make your blood vessels dilate causing a red nose and cheeks. So be sure to protect your face and also pack on the moisture to lessen the redness. Using serums and moisturizers that contain ceramides will help. Here’s one from a brand favorite.
- Lower the Thermostat – I keep my thermostat at around 75 degrees. Central heating may keep you comfortable and cozy, but can quickly dry out your skin. It will also dry out your home so a humidifier would work wonders, especially if you have dry skin.
- Use a Facial Spray – Facial sprays without alcohol like this one can rehydrate your skin throughout the day. Made with 100% grape water, this facial mist instantly hydrates and calms aggravated skin. PRO TIP: Use the facial spray after applying hyaluronic acid to give the serum added moisture to pull into the skin.
- Avoid Harsh Cleansers – Some soaps contain alcohol and fragrances that can aggravate stressed skin. Instead, use gentle shower gels and cream cleansers. Soaps with added oils like this one are great for the body. For the face, this is the best cleanser I’ve used.
- Wash Your Clothes – Well this is a given, but rather wash your clothes with detergents that don’t contain dyes or fragrances in their ingredient lists, again, two culprits that can irritate your skin. Here’s one we’ve used.
- Water, Water, Water – If you want to keep your skin hydrated on the outside, be sure you’re hydrated on the inside.
I hope these best winter skincare tips improve your skin conditions and help you enjoy the season comfortably. Nothing like itchy, red skin to put a damper on your holidays.
This post was all about winter skincare and how to keep your skin hydrated this winter.
