Simple Winter Skincare Changes for Cold, Dry Weather
You do not need a completely new skincare routine for winter. A few small adjustments can help your skin stay comfortable through colder temperatures, lower humidity, indoor heating, and more time spent in dry indoor air.
Use Richer Hydration
The lightweight moisturizer that worked well during warmer months may not provide enough support when the weather becomes colder and drier.
Try switching to a richer moisturizer, or layer a hydrating serum or complex underneath your current moisturizer. Applying moisturizer shortly after cleansing, while the skin is still slightly damp, can also help retain moisture if you aren't layering serums in between.
Cleanse Without Over-Drying
When skin is already feeling dry or tight, a cleanser that is too harsh can leave it feeling even drier or more irritated.
Choose a gentle cleanser that removes makeup, sunscreen, and daily buildup without leaving the skin feeling stripped. Lukewarm water is also easier on dry skin than very hot water, particularly during the winter months.
Adjust Retinoids and Exfoliation if Needed
Your skin may tolerate active products differently as the weather changes, even if they are products you normally use without issue.
Retinoids
If you begin noticing increased dryness, flaking, stinging, or irritation, you do not necessarily need to stop using your retinoid altogether. Consider using it less frequently, such as four nights a week instead of every night.
You can also buffer it by applying a facial lotion first. Follow with your retinoid and serums as usual, then finish with a rich moisturizer.
For additional support, consider adding a moisturizing complex after your serums and before your moisturizer for an extra layer of hydration and barrier support.
Exfoliants
When skin becomes dry or sensitive, less is often more. Scale back scrubs, exfoliating pads, peels, and other exfoliating products, especially if a retinoid is already part of your routine.
Keep Wearing Sunscreen
Shorter days and colder weather do not mean UV protection is no longer necessary.
Continue using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin throughout the winter. Sun protection is especially important during outdoor winter activities, when UV exposure can increase at higher elevations and reflect from snow.
Give Dry Areas a Little More Attention
The face is not the only area that can become dry during colder weather. Lips, hands, and other exposed areas often need additional moisture as temperatures and humidity drop.
Apply moisturizer after washing your hands or bathing, and keep lip balm and hand cream nearby if these areas tend to become dry throughout the day.
Unsure of What's Best for Your Skin?
Schedule a complimentary consultation with our Master Esthetician. She can assess your skin and help you adjust your skincare regimen for the colder months or build a routine based on your individual skin needs.
