Keeping Your Skin Healthy in Cold Weather

Winter air can be harsh on your skin, often causing dryness, flaking, and irritation as cold outdoor air and indoor heating sap moisture from the skin’s barrier. But don’t worry – with a few smart adjustments to your routine, you can maintain soft, hydrated skin all season long. Here’s your friendly guide to winter skincare:

Switch to Gentle, Moisturizing Cleansers

Winter is not the time for harsh soaps or stripping face washes. Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that cleans impurities without taking natural oils away. Look for keywords like “gentle” and “cream cleanser” on the label and avoid high alcohol content which can dry you out. For example, using a mild cream or oil-based face wash helps add moisture while cleansing. If you usually use foaming or gel cleansers in summer, consider switching now. And remember – use lukewarm water, not hot water, when washing your face or showering to avoid further drying your skin.

Product Tip: Try a gentle face wash like a pH-balanced cleanser from our Face Wash collection, which is formulated for normal to dry skin and free of harsh sulfates. It will cleanse effectively while helping your skin retain moisture.

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

Keeping skin hydrated is the golden rule of winter skincare. Swap your lightweight summer lotion for a richer cream or oil-based moisturizer during winter. Thicker creams with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter or ceramides create a protective barrier on the skin and lock in moisture. Apply moisturizer morning and night, and even mid-day if you’re feeling dry. For best results, slather it on right after cleansing or showering, when skin is slightly damp, to trap in water.

Product Tip: If your skin feels extra parched, consider layering a hydrating serum under your cream. A hyaluronic acid serum can attract and hold water in the skin. Follow with a rich face cream. Check out our Hydrating Moisturizers and barrier-repair creams – they’re formulated to combat winter dryness and strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier.

Don’t Skip Sunscreen (Yes, Even in Winter!)

You might be tempted to put away the sunscreen when it’s snowing, but UV rays are still present year-round. In fact, snow can reflect UV radiation and increase exposure. Dermatologists advise wearing sunscreen daily in winter on exposed skin like your face, neck, and hands. Choose a moisturizing broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) or use a moisturizer with SPF. This helps prevent UV damage and premature aging even on cold, cloudy days. Apply sunscreen as the last step in your morning routine – your future self will thank you!

Product Tip: Explore our Sunscreen & UV Protection options for winter-friendly sunscreens. These formulas tend to be cream-based (more hydrating than summer gels) and can double as a moisturizer. Protect your skin while keeping it hydrated.