As the temperature drops, so does your skin’s moisture level. Cold air, indoor heating, and harsh winds can leave your skin dry, tight, and irritated. The good news? With a few seasonal swaps, you can keep your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated all winter long.
Here are the best fall and winter skincare tips to protect your skin barrier and lock in moisture.
1. Switch to a Gentle, Creamy Cleanser
Foaming cleansers can strip away natural oils your skin desperately needs in winter. Instead, opt for:
- Cream or milk-based cleansers
- Hydrating formulas with glycerin, ceramides, or oat extract
Cleansing should leave your skin soft—not tight.
2. Layer Hydration
Winter skin thrives on layers of hydration.
- Apply a hydrating toner or essence with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or rose water.
- Follow with a serum (niacinamide or hyaluronic acid) to lock in water.
- Seal everything with a rich moisturizer.
Think of it like dressing your skin in cozy layers.
3. Upgrade Your Moisturizer
Lightweight gels won’t cut it in freezing temps. Instead, use:
- Creams with ceramides, squalane, or shea butter
- Ointments or balms for very dry areas (like around the nose or lips)
4. Don’t Skip Sunscreen
Yes, even in winter! UV rays are still strong and can reflect off snow. Use SPF 30 or higher daily to prevent sun damage and dark spots.
5. Use a Humidifier Indoors
Indoor heating dries out the air (and your skin). Adding a humidifier helps keep moisture levels balanced while you sleep.
6. Avoid Hot, Long Showers
Nothing feels better than a steaming shower on a cold day—but hot water strips your skin’s oils.
Stick to lukewarm showers and limit to 10–15 minutes.
7. Don’t Forget Lips & Hands
These areas dry out fastest in cold weather.
- Use a thick lip balm with beeswax, lanolin, or shea butter.
- Apply hand cream after every wash.
Quick Winter Skincare Routine
Morning
- Cream Cleanser
- Hydrating Serum (Hyaluronic Acid/Niacinamide)
- Rich Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
Night
- Cream Cleanser
- Nourishing Serum (optional)
- Thick Night Cream or Sleeping Mask