As the seasons change, so too should our skincare routines. Winter’s cold, dry air and artificial indoor heating can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leaving it feeling dry, rough, and uncomfortable. However, with a few thoughtful adjustments to your routine, you can maintain healthy, hydrated skin all season long. By understanding how the colder months impact your skin, it’s possible to make changes that protect and nourish it through the harshest of winter weather.
In winter, our skin faces significant challenges. The cold, dry air outdoors combined with the low humidity of heated indoor environments can sap moisture from the skin. Frequent handwashing, long hot showers, and exposure to the elements often worsen the problem. This leaves the skin on our face, hands, and lips particularly vulnerable to cracking, flaking, and irritation. For those with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, the effects can be even more pronounced. Fortunately, simple changes to your routine can help protect and repair your skin during this season.
Richer, more hydrating moisturisers are key during winter. Look for products that include ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, ceramides, and glycerin, which help lock in moisture. Applying these moisturisers to slightly damp skin right after cleansing can enhance their effectiveness. And when cleansing, switching to cream-based or oil-based cleansers can help preserve the skin’s natural oils.
Even though the days are shorter, and the sun doesn’t feel hot, sunscreen remains a vital part of your winter skincare routine. A daily sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protects against UV rays, which are still present even on cloudy days. Reflective surfaces like snow can intensify exposure, making sun protection particularly important during outdoor activities. Another seasonal adjustment involves reducing the use of exfoliants and retinol. These powerful ingredients can irritate already dry winter skin, so using them less frequently or switching to gentler options may be beneficial.
Simple lifestyle changes can also have a big impact. Using a humidifier in your bedroom or workspace can counteract the drying effects of indoor heating, creating a more skin-friendly environment. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is just as important so aim for at least a litre a day to support your skin’s health from the inside.
When venturing outside, protective clothing like gloves and scarves can shield your skin from cold winds, while gentle, fragrance-free laundry detergents and soft fabrics help prevent irritation. Don’t forget to keep your lips hydrated with balm containing soothing ingredients like beeswax or shea butter, and apply it frequently throughout the day.
Although it’s tempting to enjoy long, hot showers on cold mornings, they can strip the skin of its natural oils, contributing to dryness and discomfort. Opt for lukewarm water instead, and keep showers to under ten minutes. Applying body lotion or moisturiser immediately after stepping out helps lock in hydration, helping to ensure your skin stays soft and smooth.
If these winter skincare adjustments don’t resolve persistent dryness, irritation, or worsening of skin conditions, it may be time to seek expert advice. The Cheshire Aesthetic Clinic specialises in personalised care to address any specific concerns.
From professional facial and body consultations to advanced facials tailored to your skin type, our expert treatments can help restore balance and radiance to your complexion. Winter doesn’t have to be a season of compromise for your skin; with thoughtful changes and professional guidance, you can maintain a healthy, glowing appearance no matter what the weather throws at it.