Photo by Andrey Novik on Unsplash
Winter can be tough on skin. Cold air outside and dry heating indoors quickly strip away moisture, leaving complexions dull, tight, or flaky. The products that worked for you in summer may not give your skin what it needs when temperatures drop. In fact, sticking with the wrong routine can sometimes make dryness, irritation, or sensitivity worse. That’s why it’s important to rethink your skincare in the colder months; making simple swaps to protect your skin barrier, lock in hydration, and avoid ingredients that can be too harsh when the air lacks humidity. A few small changes can help keep your skin calm, supple, and glowing all season long. Here’s what to add, what to avoid, and how to make your skincare routine truly winter-ready.
Switch to a Creamy Cleanser
Foaming and gel cleansers can feel refreshing in summer, but they often strip natural oils, something your skin needs more of in winter. Swap them for a cream or milk-based cleanser that gently removes dirt without drying. Look for hydrating ingredients like glycerin, squalane, or ceramides to cleanse while strengthening your skin barrier. If you love double cleansing, consider replacing harsh makeup removers with a gentle cleansing balm or oil. The goal is to keep skin clean without leaving it tight or squeaky. A nourishing cleanser is the first step to maintaining a comfortable, hydrated complexion when the weather turns cold.
We recommend: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
Layer on Richer Moisturisers
Lightweight gels and lotions may not cut it when winter air draws moisture from your skin. Instead, reach for a cream or balm that offers extra nourishment. Ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides help lock in hydration while protecting against wind and cold. If you have oily or combination skin, try a gel-cream hybrid that balances hydration without heaviness. For dry or sensitive skin, thicker ointments can be used at night as a protective layer. Don’t forget your neck and hands, which are just as prone to dryness. A richer moisturiser can make all the difference.
We recommend: Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream Ultra-Rich
Don’t Skip Sunscreen
It’s a common winter mistake: assuming sunscreen isn’t necessary when skies are gray. But UVA rays, which contribute to ageing and skin damage, remain just as strong year-round, and they even reflect off snow. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, ideally in a formula with moisturising ingredients to combat dryness. Look for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide if your skin is easily irritated. Apply daily to your face, neck, and hands before heading outside. Even on cold, cloudy days, sunscreen is a non-negotiable step to protect your skin and maintain a healthy, youthful glow through winter.
We recommend: Murad Multi-Vitamin Clear Coat Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Be Gentle with Exfoliation
Exfoliating is important year-round, but in winter, overdoing it can compromise your skin barrier and worsen dryness or redness. Cut back on strong acids or harsh scrubs, and stick to gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs). Once or twice a week is usually enough. Focus on supporting cell turnover without stripping the skin. If you notice irritation, scale back further and prioritise hydration. Pair exfoliation with a nourishing moisturiser or hydrating mask afterward to replenish your skin. By keeping exfoliation gentle and balanced, you’ll maintain smoothness without sacrificing comfort in colder months.
We recommend: Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant
Avoid Harsh, Drying Ingredients
Some products that work in warmer seasons can backfire in winter. Ingredients like high concentrations of retinol, strong acne treatments, or alcohol-based toners can increase dryness and sensitivity. Instead, look for soothing formulas that include niacinamide, aloe vera, or panthenol to calm and strengthen your skin. If you use active treatments such as retinoids, alternate with nights focused on barrier repair and hydration. Paying attention to your skin’s needs is key; if it feels tight or irritated, it’s a sign to simplify your routine. Choosing gentler, barrier-friendly products will help your skin stay balanced, healthy, and comfortable all winter long.
We recommend: Ere Perez Australian Blue Cypress Face Nectar