Just like your wardrobe gets a seasonal update, your skincare routine needs one too. Cold air outside, dry heat inside – winter’s a moisture-sapping double whammy for your skin, leaving it feeling tight, flaky, dry and dull. Sound familiar? Here’s how to hydrate, nourish and glow through the colder months.
Layer like a pro
Think of winter skincare like dressing for the cold: it’s all about layering the right fabrics – in this case, formulations. Start with a hydrating mist or essence to prep the skin. These water-based products often contain humectants, like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which draw moisture into the upper layers of the skin.
(1) Avène Eau Thermale Spring Water, $11.99.
In winter, swap lighter antioxidant serums for ones with moisture-binding ingredients, like niacinamide or ceramides to help strengthen the skin barrier. You can still use your vitamin C serum to boost radiance and defend against environmental stress – just pick one that’s gentle on your barrier.
(2) Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced, $164.45.
(3) Clinique Moisture Surge Active Glow Serum, $85.
Seal it all in with a rich, emollient moisturiser. Look for creams that contain a mix of occlusives (to lock in moisture), emollients (to smooth) and humectants (to hydrate). Ingredients like squalane and shea butter are winter heroes.
(4) Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour HydraPlay Skin Perfecting Daily Moisturiser, $72.
(5) La Roche- Posay Effaclar H Iso-Biome Moisturiser, $39.99.
(6) Drunk Elephant Bora Barrier Repair Crème, $138.
Rebuild your barrier
Once your layering routine is in place, zoom out and think long-term: is your skin barrier coping with the cold? Ceramides are key. These lipids occur naturally in your skin and form its protective layer – keeping moisture in and irritants out. But ceramide levels decline with age and drop faster in dry, cold weather. Look for moisturisers or serums that list “ceramide NP” or “ceramide EOP” high on the ingredient list.
Glow Lab Ceramides Replenishing Facial Serum, $29.99.
Hydrate strategically
Hydration isn’t just what you apply, it’s how you apply it. Use hydrating products on damp skin to trap moisture before it evaporates. When it comes to cleansing, consider switching to a formula specially designed for dry or hypersensitive skin, or creams or balms that won’t strip away natural oils. Over-cleansing can leave skin feeling even drier.
Lush Ultrabland Cleanser, $25.
Avène Tolérance Control Cleansing Lotion, $35.99.
Exfoliate – but go easy
Dry, flaky skin can be tempting to scrub away, but harsh exfoliation can damage your barrier. Choose gentle chemical exfoliants instead. PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) are ideal for winter – they’re less irritating than AHAs and come with antioxidant benefits. Enzymes, like papaya or pumpkin, are another skin-friendly option to brighten without over-drying.
Natio Glow Multi-Action Exfoliating Concentrate, $29.99.
Add an oil
Face oils aren’t for everyone, but they can be game-changers if your moisturiser isn’t cutting it. Oils like marula, rosehip or jojoba help soften and seal in hydration. Apply a few drops as the last step in your evening routine, or mix one into your moisturiser for an added boost.
Boost Lab Jojoba Bio-Nourishing Oil, $34.95.
Jeuneora SuperSuper Facial Oil, $68.95.
