Winter Skincare Tips, According to Dermatologist

Winter can be harsh on the skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. Dermatologists recommend the following winter skincare tips to keep your skin healthy and glowing during the colder months:

Table of Contents

1. Hydrate Your Skin

Switch to a heavier moisturizer: Opt for a thicker, cream-based moisturizer to lock in hydration and protect the skin barrier.
Look for hydrating ingredients: Products with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides help retain moisture.
Apply moisturizer immediately after cleansing: Pat your skin dry and apply moisturizer while it’s still slightly damp to seal in hydration.

2. Avoid Overwashing

Use lukewarm water: Hot water strips the skin of natural oils, so stick to lukewarm water for cleansing and bathing.
Limit shower time: Keep showers short, ideally under 10 minutes, to prevent excessive dryness.

3. Use Gentle Cleansers

Choose soap-free or cream-based cleansers: These are less likely to strip away natural oils.
Avoid harsh exfoliants: Reduce exfoliation frequency and opt for gentle scrubs or chemical exfoliants with lactic or mandelic acid.

4. Protect Against Sun Damage

Continue using sunscreen: Even in winter, UV rays can harm your skin. Use a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher.
Reapply sunscreen: Especially if you’re outdoors or participating in winter sports.

5. Combat Dry Indoor Air

Use a humidifier: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to prevent skin dehydration.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin from within.

6. Protect Your Hands and Lips

Use hand creams frequently: Wash your hands with gentle soaps and apply a rich hand cream afterward.
Protect your lips: Use a moisturizing lip balm with SPF to prevent chapping.

7. Layer Your Skincare Products

Start with serums: Apply hydrating serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid before your moisturizer.
Seal with oils: For extremely dry skin, a facial oil can be used as the last step to lock in moisture.

8. Adjust for Specific Skin Concerns

For eczema or psoriasis: Use dermatologist-recommended products and consult for prescription options if needed.
For acne-prone skin: Stick with non-comedogenic moisturizers and avoid heavy oils.

9. Dress Smartly

Protect exposed skin: Wear gloves, scarves, and hats to shield your skin from the cold wind.
Choose breathable fabrics: Avoid wool or rough materials directly on your skin; opt for cotton layers underneath.

10. Consult a Dermatologist

If you experience persistent dryness, redness, or irritation, consult a dermatologist for tailored skincare advice.

Hydrate Your Skin

Hydrating your skin during winter is crucial to combat dryness and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Here’s a breakdown of how to effectively hydrate your skin:

1. Choose the Right Moisturizer

Go for thicker formulations: Swap lightweight lotions for richer creams or ointments. Products with occlusive agents like shea butter, petrolatum, or lanolin work well to lock in moisture.
Look for humectants: Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera draw moisture into the skin.
Use ceramide-based moisturizers: Ceramides help restore the skin’s natural barrier, preventing water loss.

2. Apply Moisturizer Correctly

Post-cleansing application: Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes of washing your face or showering to trap residual moisture.
Don’t forget your neck and hands: These areas are often exposed and prone to dryness.

3. Use a Hydrating Serum

Layer with serums: Apply a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid or niacinamide before your moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration.
Choose water-based serums: These are lightweight and penetrate the skin deeply.

4. Hydrate from Within

Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated internally can help keep your skin plump and radiant.
Eat hydrating foods: Include fruits and vegetables high in water content, like cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon.

5. Add an Overnight Mask

Use a sleeping mask: Apply a hydrating overnight mask once or twice a week to replenish moisture levels.
Pick soothing ingredients: Masks with ingredients like squalane, aloe vera, or oatmeal are great for winter.

6. Consider a Humidifier

Combat dry air: Place a humidifier in your bedroom to maintain optimal humidity levels, especially if heating systems dry out the air.

2. Avoid Overwashing

Overwashing your skin during winter can strip away its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Here’s how to avoid overwashing while maintaining proper hygiene:

1. Use Lukewarm Water

Avoid hot water: While hot showers and face washes may feel comforting in the cold, they strip away the skin’s protective oils. Stick to lukewarm water for cleansing.

2. Limit Shower and Face Wash Time

Keep showers short: Aim for showers under 10 minutes to minimize moisture loss.
Wash your face only twice daily: Overwashing your face, especially with harsh cleansers, can dry out your skin. Stick to morning and evening cleansing unless you’ve been sweating or exposed to pollutants.

3. Use Gentle Cleansers

Opt for non-stripping formulas: Choose soap-free, cream-based, or hydrating gel cleansers that are less likely to deplete your skin’s moisture. Look for ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, and aloe vera.
Avoid foaming cleansers: Many foam-based products can be too harsh for winter use, especially if your skin is dry or sensitive.

4. Be Gentle with Your Skin

Don’t over-scrub: Avoid harsh physical exfoliants and aggressive rubbing, as they can exacerbate dryness and irritation.
Pat dry, don’t rub: After washing, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel, leaving it slightly damp to retain moisture.

5. Wash Your Hands Wisely

Use mild hand soaps: Opt for moisturizing hand washes to avoid excessive dryness.
Moisturize after washing: Apply a hand cream immediately after washing to replenish hydration.

6. Adjust Based on Skin Type

Dry or sensitive skin: Consider cleansing only at night to remove the day’s dirt and makeup, and simply rinse with water in the morning.
Oily or acne-prone skin: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to avoid clogging pores while maintaining your skin’s balance.

7. Balance Cleansing with Moisturizing

Moisturize immediately after washing: Lock in hydration within a few minutes of cleansing to protect your skin’s barrier.

3. Use Gentle Cleansers

Using gentle cleansers in the winter is essential to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils and exacerbating dryness. Here’s how to choose and use gentle cleansers effectively:

1. Choose the Right Cleanser

Look for hydrating ingredients: Cleansers with glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or ceramides help maintain moisture balance.
Avoid harsh ingredients: Stay away from sulfates, alcohol, and artificial fragrances, as they can be too drying.
Go soap-free: Soap-free cleansers are less likely to disrupt your skin’s natural pH.
Pick cream or oil-based cleansers: These are ideal for winter as they cleanse without stripping moisture.
Consider micellar water: For very dry or sensitive skin, micellar water can be a gentle, no-rinse option for removing dirt and makeup.

2. Tailor Cleansers to Your Skin Type

Dry skin: Use rich, cream-based cleansers with nourishing ingredients like squalane or shea butter.
Oily or acne-prone skin: Opt for gel-based or lightweight cleansers with salicylic acid or niacinamide that won’t over-dry.
Sensitive skin: Stick with hypoallergenic and fragrance-free cleansers to minimize irritation.

3. Wash Gently

Use lukewarm water: Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, while cold water may not cleanse effectively.
Lather lightly: Use your fingertips to gently massage the cleanser onto your skin without scrubbing.
Rinse thoroughly: Ensure no residue remains, as leftover cleanser can dry out your skin.

4. Cleanse Less Frequently

Stick to twice daily: Cleanse your face in the morning and evening. If your skin is particularly dry, you can skip morning cleansing and rinse with water instead.
Adjust based on activity: Cleanse after heavy sweating or exposure to pollutants, but avoid unnecessary cleansing.

5. Follow with Moisturizer

Seal in hydration: Apply a moisturizer immediately after cleansing to replenish your skin’s barrier.
Don’t skip toner: Use an alcohol-free hydrating toner to restore your skin’s pH before moisturizing.

6. Product Recommendations

Dry/Sensitive Skin:
- Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
- CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin:
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser
- Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
- Bioderma Sébium Foaming Gel

4. Protect Against Sun Damage

Even in winter, protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial. UV radiation can damage your skin year-round, so it’s important to incorporate sun protection into your daily skincare routine. Here’s how to protect your skin from sun damage during the colder months:

1. Use Sunscreen Every Day

Broad-spectrum protection: Choose a sunscreen that offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
SPF 30 or higher: Dermatologists recommend using an SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
Water-resistant formula: If you’re active outdoors or sweating, opt for a water-resistant sunscreen.

2. Apply Sunscreen Generously

Don’t skip areas: Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, hands, and any other part of your body that is uncovered.
Reapply every 2 hours: Sunscreen wears off with sweat and exposure to the elements, so reapply every 2 hours, especially if you’re spending time outside.
Use enough sunscreen: About a nickel-sized amount (or 1 teaspoon) for your face is typically enough for full coverage.

3. Don’t Forget Winter Sun Exposure

Snow reflection: Snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, meaning you’re at an increased risk for sunburn, especially in areas with snow.
Elevated altitudes: UV exposure increases at higher altitudes, so be extra diligent if you’re skiing or hiking.
Cloudy days: UV rays can penetrate through the clouds, meaning you can still get sun damage even on overcast days.

4. Choose Sunscreens with Moisturizing Benefits

Hydrating sunscreen: Look for sunscreens with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin to lock in moisture while protecting your skin from the sun.
Tinted sunscreens: Tinted sunscreens offer additional protection against visible light and can help with any winter skin dullness.

5. Wear Physical Barriers

Hats and sunglasses: Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses to shield your face and eyes from direct sun exposure.
Layer clothing: Opt for long sleeves and high collars if you’re outside for extended periods.

6. Be Mindful of Sun Exposure Indoors

Indoor UV protection: UV rays can penetrate windows, so consider applying sunscreen if you’re near windows or spend long periods in front of them.

7. Protect Your Lips

Lip balm with SPF: The lips are especially vulnerable to sunburn, so choose a lip balm with SPF to keep them protected during winter.
Avoid chapped lips: Reapply your lip balm frequently to keep your lips hydrated and shielded from the sun.

Product Recommendations

EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 (for hydration and protection)
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55 (light and fast-absorbing)
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Sunscreen Milk SPF 60 (ideal for sensitive skin)
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 (perfect for a clear, non-greasy finish)

Additional Tips

Regular Skin Checks: Keep an eye on any moles or skin changes, especially if you’ve had significant sun exposure. Early detection of skin damage can help prevent more serious issues.

5. Combat Dry Indoor Air

During winter, the indoor air tends to be much drier due to heating systems, which can lead to moisture loss in your skin. Here’s how you can combat dry indoor air and keep your skin hydrated:

1. Use a Humidifier

Add moisture to the air: A humidifier helps maintain optimal humidity levels (between 30-50%) in your home, preventing your skin from drying out.
Place it near your bed: Keeping a humidifier running while you sleep can help your skin retain moisture overnight.
Choose a quiet model: If you’re sensitive to noise, choose a whisper-quiet humidifier for undisturbed sleep.
Regular cleaning: Clean your humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated internally helps keep your skin moisturized from the inside out.
Incorporate hydrating foods: Include water-rich foods in your diet, such as cucumbers, oranges, strawberries, and soups.

3. Apply a Rich Moisturizer

Moisturize immediately after cleansing: After washing your face or body, apply a thick, hydrating moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture.
Opt for heavier creams: Choose richer formulations like body butters, oil-based moisturizers, or ointments that create a protective barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Use occlusives: Look for ingredients like petrolatum, shea butter, and beeswax to seal in hydration.

4. Adjust Your Heating Settings

Control the thermostat: Keep your home’s temperature at a comfortable level without it becoming too hot, as extreme heat can further dry out the air.
Avoid direct heat: Try not to sit directly under heaters or radiators, as they can dehydrate your skin.

5. Take Shorter, Cooler Showers

Avoid hot showers: Long, hot showers can strip the skin of its natural oils. Instead, keep your shower time short and use lukewarm water.
Moisturize after showering: Apply moisturizer as soon as you step out of the shower while your skin is still damp to lock in moisture.

6. Use a Face Mist

Refresh your skin throughout the day: A hydrating face mist can be used during the day to add moisture to your skin and combat dryness. Look for products with glycerin, rose water, or aloe vera.
Avoid alcohol-based mists: These can further dry out your skin.

7. Limit Skin-Cleansing Frequency

Avoid overwashing: Excessive washing, especially with harsh cleansers, can strip your skin of its natural moisture. Cleanse your face twice daily and avoid harsh exfoliants in winter.

8. Add an Oil Layer

Seal moisture with oils: After moisturizing, apply a layer of facial oil or body oil to help lock in hydration and prevent moisture from evaporating. Oils like argan, jojoba, or squalane are great for this.

9. Use a Hydrating Sheet Mask

Weekly hydration boost: Apply a hydrating sheet mask once or twice a week to deeply nourish your skin and combat winter dryness. Look for masks with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe.

10. Sleep with a Moisturizing Treatment

Overnight masks: Use overnight hydrating masks or oils to help restore moisture as you sleep.
Pillowcase care: Consider using silk pillowcases, as they are less likely to absorb moisture from your skin compared to cotton.

Your hands and lips are often the first areas to show signs of dryness during winter, as they’re more exposed to the elements and frequent washing. Here’s how to keep them protected:

1. Protect Your Hands

Moisturize Regularly

Frequent application: Apply hand cream every time you wash your hands or after exposing them to cold air.
Use rich, emollient creams: Opt for thicker, heavier hand creams or ointments containing ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or petrolatum, which provide long-lasting moisture.
Look for glycerin and hyaluronic acid: These ingredients help attract and lock moisture into the skin.

Wear Gloves

In cold weather: Always wear gloves when you go outside, as exposure to cold air can cause the skin on your hands to crack and become irritated.
Moisturizing gloves: Consider wearing gloves that have a moisturizing layer inside for added protection when going out or at night while sleeping.

Overnight Treatment

Use thicker creams overnight: Apply a rich hand cream before bed and wear cotton gloves to allow the product to work while you sleep.
Hydrating masks: You can also use overnight hand masks or treatments for deep hydration.

Avoid Harsh Soaps

Use gentle, moisturizing soaps: Opt for hydrating hand soaps that don’t strip the skin of natural oils.
Limit hand washing: Wash your hands only when necessary, and use lukewarm water instead of hot water.

2. Protect Your Lips

Use Lip Balm Regularly

Choose a nourishing lip balm: Look for lip balms with ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or petrolatum to lock in moisture and protect the lips from cracking.
With SPF protection: Always select a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher to protect your lips from UV rays, even in winter.
Avoid flavored balms: While they may seem appealing, they can actually irritate and dry out the lips over time.

Exfoliate Gently

Weekly exfoliation: Gently exfoliate your lips with a sugar scrub or a soft toothbrush to remove dry, flaky skin. Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can make your lips more sensitive.
DIY lip scrub: Mix honey and sugar for a simple, hydrating lip scrub.

Hydrate from Within

Drink water: Ensure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to prevent your lips from becoming dry and chapped.
Eat hydrating foods: Foods high in water content, such as cucumbers and watermelon, can help nourish your lips from the inside out.

Avoid Licking Your Lips

Resist the urge: Licking your lips may feel soothing initially but can actually dry them out more, as the saliva evaporates quickly and leaves the lips drier than before.

3. Night Care for Hands and Lips

Overnight Treatment for Lips

Overnight masks: Apply a thick layer of nourishing lip balm or a specific overnight lip mask before bed for deep hydration.
Petroleum jelly: For extreme dryness, you can apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or Vaseline to your lips at night to help lock in moisture.

Use Cotton Gloves for Hands

For intense moisture: Apply a generous amount of hand cream or oil to your hands and cover them with soft cotton gloves overnight for a deep moisturizing effect.

4. Choose Gentle Hand Sanitizers

Hydrating hand sanitizers: Use alcohol-free sanitizers with added moisturizers to avoid excessive dryness and irritation.
Apply hand cream after sanitizing: Follow up with a rich hand cream immediately after using hand sanitizer to lock in moisture.

Product Recommendations for Hands:

CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream (with ceramides and hyaluronic acid)
Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream (for extremely dry skin)
L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream (rich and soothing)

Product Recommendations for Lips:

Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm (with natural beeswax)
Aquaphor Healing Ointment (for severe dryness or chapped lips)
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask (overnight hydration)

7. Dress Smartly

Dressing smartly during winter is not only important for keeping warm but also for protecting your skin from the harsh conditions, such as cold winds, low humidity, and extreme temperatures. Here’s how to dress smartly to keep your skin comfortable and healthy:

1. Wear Layers

Layer up: Opt for multiple layers of clothing, which can help trap warmth and protect your skin from the cold. The base layer should be moisture-wicking to keep sweat away from your skin.
Avoid tight clothing: Tight clothing can irritate the skin and cause chafing, especially when combined with the cold air. Choose looser, breathable layers that won’t restrict blood flow.

2. Choose the Right Fabrics

Soft, breathable fabrics for inner layers: Choose cotton, silk, or moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for base layers to avoid irritation. These materials allow your skin to breathe while maintaining warmth.
Opt for insulating fabrics for outer layers: Wool, fleece, and down jackets are great choices for outer layers, as they trap warmth without causing sweating.
Avoid rough fabrics directly on skin: Wool or synthetic fibers can be itchy or irritating, so make sure to layer a soft fabric like cotton underneath.

3. Protect Your Hands

Wear gloves: To protect your hands from the cold and prevent dryness, wear gloves made of wool, fleece, or leather lined with a soft fabric. Avoid tight gloves, as they can restrict blood circulation.
Moisturize before wearing gloves: Apply a thick hand cream or oil before putting on gloves to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated.

4. Shield Your Face and Neck

Wear a scarf or neck warmer: A soft scarf or neck warmer can shield your face and neck from the biting cold. Choose scarves made of soft wool, fleece, or cotton to prevent irritation.
Protect your lips: Consider wearing a scarf that covers your lower face and apply a nourishing lip balm with SPF to protect against dryness and cracking.
Consider face masks or balaclavas: If you’re exposed to extreme cold, a balaclava or face mask can offer full protection for your face, helping prevent windburn and dryness.

5. Wear a Hat or Beanie

Cover your head: Cold air can affect your scalp and face, so wear a hat or beanie to keep your head warm. Choose a fabric that won’t irritate your skin, such as cotton or soft wool.
Consider a hat with a wide brim: If you’re outdoors during the day, a wide-brimmed hat can protect your face from UV rays, which can still be strong in the winter, especially when reflected by snow.

6. Footwear Protection

Wear moisture-wicking socks: To keep your feet warm and dry, wear socks made of merino wool or synthetic materials that wick moisture away from the skin.
Choose insulated, water-resistant boots: Waterproof boots with insulation help protect your feet from the cold, wet conditions, while maintaining warmth. Avoid tight boots that may cause discomfort or poor circulation.
Moisturize your feet: Apply a thick foot cream or balm to keep your feet hydrated, especially after wearing boots for long periods.

7. Keep Your Skin Covered in Cold Winds

Use a coat with a high collar: A high-collared coat helps protect your neck and lower face from the cold, wind, and sun exposure.
Invest in windproof outerwear: Choose coats or jackets that are windproof to avoid your skin being exposed to the harsh, drying effects of the cold air.

8. Protect Your Skin from UV Rays

Remember winter sun protection: Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still damage your skin. Choose clothing with built-in UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) for additional skin protection.
Sunscreen: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on exposed skin, such as the face, neck, and hands, before heading outdoors, as snow and ice can reflect UV rays.

9. Use Skin-Protecting Sprays

Barrier sprays: Consider using barrier sprays or oils designed for protecting skin against the cold, especially if you’re spending long periods outdoors. These create a protective layer on your skin to prevent moisture loss.