Fall is the beginning of crisp air, cozy sweaters, and holiday cheer on the horizon, but it also brings a host of challenges for your skin. Cold temperatures, dry indoor heat, and harsh winds can strip your skin of moisture, leaving it dry, irritated, and dull. With a few thoughtful changes to your skincare routine, you can keep your skin hydrated, protected, and radiant all season long.
Switch to a Hydrating Cleanser
Your summer gel or foam cleanser might be too harsh for winter so opt for a cream-based or oil-based cleanser that removes impurities without stripping natural oils. Hydrating cleansers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides help maintain your skin’s moisture barrier and leave it feeling soft and refreshed instead of tight or dry.
Moisturize More Often (and Smarter)
As the temperature drops, your skin loses moisture faster, especially after washing. Use a thicker, richer moisturizer to help lock in hydration. Look for creams with shea butter, squalane, or urea. Layering is also effective. Start with a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid, then apply a moisturizer, and finish with an occlusive like petroleum jelly on very dry areas.
Don’t Skip Sunscreen
Just because it’s cloudy doesn’t mean UV rays aren’t present. UVA rays, which cause aging and long-term skin damage, are just as strong in winter as in summer. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, especially if you spend time outside skiing or walking, as snow reflects UV rays and increases exposure.
Add a Humidifier to Your Home
Indoor heating systems sap the air of moisture, which can dry out your skin and nasal passages. Using a humidifier, especially in your bedroom while you sleep, adds moisture back into the air and helps your skin retain hydration. Keep the humidity level between 30–50% for the best results.
Exfoliate Gently, Not Aggressively
Dead skin cells can build up more quickly in winter, but over-exfoliating can damage your skin’s protective barrier. Use a gentle chemical exfoliant (like lactic acid or PHA) once or twice a week instead of harsh scrubs. This helps slough off dull skin and allows your moisturizer to penetrate better without causing irritation.
Take Shorter, Lukewarm Showers
While long hot showers feel amazing in the cold, they can strip natural oils from your skin. Stick to lukewarm water and limit showers to 5–10 minutes. After bathing, pat your skin dry with a soft towel and apply moisturizer immediately to lock in moisture while your skin is still damp.
Hydrate from Within
Drinking plenty of water in winter is just as important as in summer. Central heating and increased caffeine intake can lead to dehydration. Include hydrating foods like cucumbers, oranges, and soups in your diet. Herbal teas can also be comforting and hydrating alternatives to plain water.
Protect Your Lips and Hands
Lips and hands are particularly vulnerable in winter due to thinner skin and frequent exposure. Use a lip balm with SPF during the day and a thicker balm or ointment at night. Wear gloves outdoors and apply hand cream throughout the day. For extra care, use a thick hand balm before bed and sleep in cotton gloves to repair overnight.
Adjust Your Nighttime Routine
At night, your skin enters repair mode, making it a great time to nourish and treat it. Incorporate a richer night cream or overnight mask. If you use actives like retinoids, balance them with barrier-repair products to prevent dryness and irritation. A facial oil layered over your night cream can also seal in moisture.
Choose Hydrating Makeup Products
Winter makeup should complement your skincare efforts. Use hydrating foundations and BB creams instead of matte or powder-heavy products, which can emphasize dry patches. Look for formulas that include skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid or squalane. Always prepare your skin with a moisturizing primer for smoother application.
Extra Tips for Specific Skin Concerns
For Sensitive Skin
Winter can worsen conditions like eczema and rosacea. Avoid skincare products with alcohol, fragrance, or strong exfoliants. Stick to soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, chamomile, and aloe vera. Patch test new products and keep your routine simple.
For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
You still need moisture even if your skin is oily. In fact, skipping moisturizers can trigger even more oil production. Use non-comedogenic hydrators like gel moisturizers with niacinamide or hyaluronic acid. Continue using acne treatments but reduce the frequency if you notice increased dryness or irritation.
For Mature Skin
Aging skin naturally loses hydration and elasticity, which makes winter dryness more pronounced. Use a serum with peptides or antioxidants like vitamin C to boost collagen production and protect against environmental stressors. Follow with a rich moisturizer that plumps and smooths fine lines.
Bonus: DIY Winter Skincare Treatments
- Overnight Hydration Mask: Mix honey and plain Greek yogurt for a soothing, hydrating face mask. Leave it on for 10–15 minutes before bed.
- Lip Scrub: Combine sugar and coconut oil to gently exfoliate flaky lips, then follow with a thick balm.
- Hand Spa: Soak hands in warm milk for 5–10 minutes, then apply a rich cream and wear gloves overnight.
Your skin’s needs change with the seasons, and as we head into the colder months it is the perfect time to show it a little extra love. By adjusting your routine to include richer hydration, gentler cleansing, and protective habits, you’ll help your skin stay soft, healthy, and glowing all season long. Remember, consistency is key so stay diligent with your routine, even when you’re bundled up indoors. Your springtime and summer skin will thank you!
