Winter’s combination of chilly air and indoor heating makes skin extra dry. Dry indoor air and low humidity make your skin lose moisture more quickly. This can cause your skin to become tight, itchy, and dull, so you need to switch to a winter skincare routine that can protect your skin from the harsh and cold weather. Learn tips and product recommendations for tackling common winter skin problems and how to switch your skincare routine from sunny, warm weather to cold, dry weather.
Why Does Your Skin Change in the Winter?
Cold air can’t hold moisture like warm weather can. When you factor in harsh winds and dropping humidity, your skin loses hydration quickly. Indoor heating only compounds the problem by creating an even drier environment for your skin.
What Are the Best Ingredients for Winter Skincare?
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a hydration powerhouse! In winter, when your skin is losing moisture, it pulls water from the environment and deeper skin layers to plump and hydrate the surface. Keeping your skin well-hydrated strengthens its barrier so it’s protected from cold, dry air, and indoor heating.
Ceramides
Ceramides are natural fats that make up about half of your skin’s outer layer. In winter, cold air and indoor heating can strip them away, leaving your skin barrier vulnerable. Using products with ceramides helps to restore your skin’s protective barrier and lock in moisture.
Glycerin
Glycerin is a humectant that pulls moisture from both the environment and the deeper layers of your skin. This dual-action hydration is really great for your skin during the winter when its surface is constantly losing moisture to harsh conditions.
Squalane
Squalane forms a protective layer on your skin that keeps moisture in and irritants out. This protective layer is essential when cold winds and heating are constantly stripping moisture away.
What is a Good Winter Skincare Routine?
An effective winter skincare routine addresses the challenges your skin faces during these months (i.e. compromised skin barrier, moisture loss, and environmental stressors).
Morning Skincare Routine
Your morning skincare routine should focus on protection and hydration. You want to prep your skin to handle chilly winds and dry indoor air.
1. Cleanse
In the morning, you don't need to use a heavy cleanser. Opt for a gentle cleanser that removes overnight buildup without stripping your skin of its natural oils. Shop recommended face cleansers.
2. Apply a Hydrating Serum
Apply a hydrating serum while your skin is still slightly damp. Applying it to damp skin gives hyaluronic acid the water it needs to lock in moisture, pulling it deep into your pores rather than drawing moisture out of your skin. Shop recommended hydrating serums.
3. Moisturize
Swap the lightweight gel moisturizer for a richer moisturizer that seals in the hydration from the hydrating serum. If you have oily skin, look for non-comedogenic moisturizers that hydrate without clogging pores. Shop all moisturizers or browse our recommended moisturizers for dry skin.
4. Sunscreen
It’s a common skincare myth that you don't need sunscreen in the winter. UV rays are present all year-round, and “snow reflects up to 80% of the sun’s UV light,” so your skin’s barrier isn’t protected if you don’t wear sunscreen. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every single morning as the last step in your skincare routine.
Evening Skincare Routine
Nighttime is when your skin repairs itself, so this is when you should use more nourishing skincare products.
1. Double Cleanse
Double cleansing is a two-step method that starts with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess oils, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove sweat, dirt, and impurities. This step cleans your skin thoroughly without stripping it which is especially important in winter when you need a clean face for hydrating products to absorb effectively.
2. Exfoliate
Dry skin can lead to a buildup of dead skin cells, making your skin look dull. However, over-exfoliating in winter causes irritation, so limit exfoliation to once or twice a week. Biologique Recherché’s Lotion P50 is the recommended gentle, balancing exfoliator.
3. Layer Serums
Apply your hydrating serums again in the evening. If you use a retinol, apply it during this step, but keep in mind that retinol can be extra drying in winter, so don’t apply too much.
4. Use Thick Night Moisturizer
The moisturizer you use in the evening should be heavier than the moisturizer you use during the day. This heavy layer prevents water loss throughout the night.
Skincare Treatments in the Metro DC Area
Building the right winter skincare routine with understanding your skin type and giving it exactly what it needs to stay healthy and hydrated during the colder months. If you would like to know what your skin type is and how to build a winter skincare routine, reserve an appointment for a personalized skincare routine that will give you glowing skin all winter long.
FAQs
Why does my skin feel drier in winter?
Cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating strip moisture from the skin. This can lead to dryness, flakiness, and irritation.
Do I still need sunscreen in winter?
Yes, because UV rays can penetrate clouds and reflect off snow. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is recommended daily.
How can I prevent chapped lips and dry hands?
Apply lip balm regularly, and use rich hand creams after washing your hands and before bed.
How can I maintain hydration indoors?
Use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air, and drink plenty of water.
How often should I wash my face in winter?
Twice a day is sufficient. Over-cleansing strips natural oils from your skin.
