As the temperature drops, so does the moisture in the air—and our skin feels it! Winter can be especially tough on your skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and even flare-ups of conditions like eczema. But don’t worry, your winter skincare routine can make a world of difference.
In today’s blog, we’re going to talk about how you can protect your skin from the harsh effects of cold weather, and ensure it stays glowing and healthy all season long.
Let’s get started, shall we?
Why Does Winter Dry Out Our Skin?
Cold air holds less moisture than warm air, and when you add indoor heating into the mix, the humidity in our environment drops even further. This leads to transepidermal water loss, meaning your skin loses more moisture than usual. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, winter can strip your skin of its natural oils, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy barrier.
In fact, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that the skin’s outermost layer (the stratum corneum) becomes less flexible and more prone to cracking in colder temperatures. So, how do you combat this? By tailoring your skincare routine to keep your skin hydrated and protected!
1. Switch to a Gentle, Hydrating Cleanser
During winter, your skin needs all the moisture it can get, so ditch the foaming or gel cleansers that can strip away oils. Opt for a cream-based or oil cleanser that gently removes dirt and impurities without drying out your skin. Cleansers with ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid are especially beneficial.
2. Moisturize Immediately After Cleansing
Here’s a pro tip: apply your moisturizer while your skin is still damp. This helps trap moisture in the skin and provides an extra layer of protection. Choose thicker creams or balms instead of lightweight lotions during winter. Ingredients like shea butter, petrolatum, and squalane can create a barrier to lock in hydration.
The American Dermatological Society recommends layering products—use a serum with hyaluronic acid to hydrate deeper layers of the skin, followed by a heavier moisturizer to seal in that moisture.
3. Don’t Forget SPF!
Even though the sun feels weaker in winter, UV rays can still damage your skin. In fact, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Plus, snow reflects sunlight, increasing your exposure. So, make sure to apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days.
4. Exfoliate, But Be Gentle
Exfoliation is important for removing dead skin cells, but be careful not to overdo it in winter. Stick to exfoliating once or twice a week with a gentle scrub or an enzyme-based exfoliator. This helps products like serums and moisturizers absorb better, without causing irritation or damaging your skin barrier.
5. Humidify Your Space
One of the easiest ways to combat dry winter air is by using a humidifier at home. Research from Harvard Health suggests that increasing indoor humidity to around 40-60% can significantly improve skin hydration. This simple step helps counteract the moisture-zapping effects of indoor heating and keeps your skin looking plump and healthy.
6. Hydrate from the Inside
Your skin reflects your internal hydration levels. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. You can also include more hydrating foods like cucumbers, oranges, and leafy greens in your diet to support your skin’s moisture levels.
With a few adjustments to your routine, winter doesn’t have to wreak havoc on your skin. Stick to hydrating, protective products and remember to give your skin a little extra love during these colder months. After all, winter is the perfect time to focus on nourishing and strengthening your skin, so you can head into spring with a radiant, healthy glow.
If you’re looking for personalized winter skincare advice or product recommendations, New Beauty is here to help. Let’s get your skin through winter smooth, hydrated, and ready to shine!
