14 Essential Winter Skin Care Tips to Keep You Glowing All December

Winter weather can leave your skin feeling dry and tired, but there are simple ways to protect it. By adjusting your skincare routine, you can keep your skin hydrated and glowing all season long. From using the right moisturizers to protecting your skin from harsh winds, a few small changes can make a big difference. Let’s explore the best tips to help your skin stay fresh through the colder months. 

This post may contain affiliate links, which helps keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Hydrate From the Inside Out

During the colder months, it is essential to stay hydrated, not just for your body but also for your skin. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain moisture levels, preventing your skin from becoming dry and flaky. Warm beverages like herbal teas can also contribute to hydration and provide added comfort in the chilly weather. Be mindful of caffeine and alcohol, as these can dehydrate your skin, leaving it dull.

Adding hydration internally will support the moisturizers you use on your skin. This combination of hydration from within and a good skincare routine can work wonders. Remember, hydrated skin is healthy skin, even in the harshest winter conditions. It is easy to overlook, but water is one of the simplest and most effective winter skin care solutions.

Switch to a Richer Moisturizer

As winter weather tends to strip moisture from your skin, it is important to use a richer moisturizer that can provide lasting hydration. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin, which help lock in moisture. A thicker cream or ointment is often more effective in winter than a lighter lotion. These products will keep your skin soft and nourished throughout the day.

Be sure to apply moisturizer right after washing your face or taking a shower, while your skin is still damp. This helps lock in the moisture before it has a chance to escape. Avoid moisturizers with alcohol, as these can dry out your skin even more. Opt for thicker, more nourishing options that create a protective barrier against the cold.

Use a Humidifier

Winter air, especially indoors, can be extremely dry due to heating systems. A humidifier is an excellent way to combat this and add moisture back into the air. By using a humidifier in your home, you can prevent your skin from becoming dehydrated while you sleep. This simple addition can work wonders for maintaining your skin’s natural moisture balance.

Humidifiers help your skin retain moisture by adding water vapor into the dry indoor air. They are especially beneficial in rooms where you spend a lot of time, like your bedroom or living room. Keep your humidifier clean to avoid mold and bacteria build-up. This affordable tool can improve your skin’s overall health throughout the winter months.

Exfoliate Regularly, But Gently

Exfoliating your skin is key to removing dead skin cells that can accumulate and leave your skin looking dull. However, it is important to be gentle in winter, as aggressive exfoliation can lead to irritation. Use a mild exfoliator with fine grains or chemical exfoliants like AHAs that are less harsh. Aim to exfoliate once or twice a week, depending on your skin type.

Exfoliating helps to maintain smooth skin and allows your moisturizers to absorb more effectively. Be cautious with physical exfoliants, as they can scratch and damage the skin. Choose products that are hydrating and formulated for sensitive skin to avoid redness. Keep it light and ensure you follow up with a good moisturizer to lock in hydration.

Protect Your Skin From the Wind

Winter winds can be especially damaging to your skin, stripping away moisture and leaving it irritated. When heading outside, make sure to wear a scarf, hat, and gloves to protect your face and hands from the wind. A good barrier cream or heavier moisturizer on exposed skin can also shield your skin from the elements. Make it a habit to protect your skin before stepping out into the cold.

The wind can accelerate skin dryness and increase the appearance of fine lines and cracks. Consider using a richer, thicker product on days when the wind is particularly harsh. This extra protection will not only help your skin retain moisture but also prevent irritation. Proper protection will keep your skin glowing, no matter how harsh the winter winds are.

Apply Sunscreen Daily

Winter sun can still cause harm to your skin, especially with reflected UV rays off snow and ice. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days. UV rays can penetrate through clouds, making sunscreen essential even when it is cold outside. It is easy to forget sunscreen in winter, but it is just as necessary as it is in the summer months.

Consider a sunscreen that is formulated for winter weather, which may include additional moisturizing properties. Sunburns in winter can be just as damaging to the skin as in summer. Protecting your skin from UV damage helps prevent premature aging and skin cancer. A daily SPF routine ensures your skin stays safe all year round.

Take Lukewarm Showers

Hot showers can feel soothing in the winter but are a major culprit for drying out your skin. Opt for lukewarm water instead to avoid stripping away natural oils. Prolonged exposure to hot water can leave your skin feeling tight and irritated. Try to limit your shower time and use gentle body wash products that will not further dry your skin.

After showering, pat your skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing it harshly. Immediately apply a moisturizer to lock in moisture while your skin is still slightly damp. Lukewarm showers will help preserve your skin’s natural moisture barrier, leaving it feeling comfortable and hydrated. This small change can make a big difference in your winter skincare routine.

Use a Nourishing Lip Balm

Chapped lips are one of the most common skin issues in winter. Make sure to use a nourishing lip balm that contains ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, or coconut oil to keep your lips soft and smooth. Reapply throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking. Avoid licking your lips, as this can worsen dryness.

A good lip balm creates a protective layer on your lips, preventing moisture loss. Opt for one that is fragrance-free and designed to heal and hydrate. Some balms also offer SPF, which is important to protect your lips from sun exposure. By taking care of your lips, you can keep them from cracking and looking dry.

Opt for a Cream Cleanser

During winter, it is important to use a gentle, cream-based cleanser rather than a foaming one that can be harsh on your skin. Cream cleansers help maintain your skin’s moisture balance while cleansing, leaving your skin soft and hydrated. They are typically free of sulfates and alcohol, which can be drying to the skin. Use a mild, moisturizing cleanser every morning and night to keep your skin clean without drying it out.

A cream cleanser can remove dirt and makeup while preserving your skin’s natural oils. Make sure to massage the product gently and rinse with lukewarm water. This will help your skin stay soft and moisturized. Stick to gentle formulas that suit sensitive skin for the best results.

Wear Gloves and Socks to Protect Hands and Feet

Hands and feet are often neglected during the winter months, but they are just as susceptible to dryness. Wearing gloves when outside and moisturizing your hands frequently will help protect them from harsh winds and cold. Consider wearing socks to keep your feet warm and prevent cracking. At night, apply a rich cream and wear cotton gloves or socks to lock in moisture while you sleep.

Moisturizing hands and feet regularly with a thick lotion or ointment will help keep them soft. Look for products containing ingredients like lanolin or petroleum jelly, which create a barrier against the cold. These areas tend to get extra dry in winter, so giving them some extra attention can make a huge difference. Keep your hands and feet hydrated and protected to avoid painful cracks and dryness.

Avoid Overwashing Your Skin

Overwashing your skin in winter can strip it of essential oils, leaving it dry and irritated. Try to wash your face only once or twice a day, and avoid using harsh soaps or cleansers. Opt for products that are gentle and formulated for dry skin. This will allow your skin to retain its natural moisture and stay hydrated throughout the day.

When washing your face, be sure to use lukewarm water and avoid scrubbing too hard. Instead, gently massage the cleanser into your skin in circular motions. Overwashing can lead to a disrupted moisture barrier, so less is more during the winter months. This simple step will help keep your skin feeling comfortable and healthy.

Choose Non-Drying Makeup Products

Winter skin requires makeup products that will not dry out or irritate the skin. Look for foundations and powders that are hydrating and contain moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. Avoid products that are heavy on alcohol or fragrance, as they can cause your skin to become dry and sensitive. Opt for liquid foundations or tinted moisturizers for a more hydrating finish.

When applying makeup in winter, start with a hydrating primer to create a smooth base. Finish your makeup routine with a setting spray that contains moisturizing properties. This will help lock in hydration while ensuring your makeup stays fresh. Switching to non-drying makeup products is a simple way to maintain healthy skin during the colder months.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet plays a crucial role in keeping your skin glowing during the winter. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, can help maintain your skin’s moisture balance. Incorporating vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges and strawberries can boost your skin’s collagen production and enhance its elasticity. Drinking warm broths or soups can also hydrate your skin from the inside.

A well-balanced diet will provide the nutrients your skin needs to stay healthy and vibrant. Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to nourish your skin. Avoid overly processed foods that can dehydrate your body and, by extension, your skin. Eating a nutritious diet supports not only your skin but also your overall health during the winter season.

Avoid Stress

Stress can take a toll on your skin, leading to dryness and irritation, especially in the winter. Finding ways to manage stress is important for maintaining your skin’s health. Try incorporating stress-relieving practices like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your daily routine. Regular exercise is another great way to reduce stress and promote better circulation, which can help your skin look radiant.

Taking care of your mental health will help your skin look and feel its best during the colder months. Avoiding stress is easier said than done, but small changes can make a big difference. Making time for self-care and relaxation will allow your skin to thrive, even in the harshest conditions. Take care of your mind, and your skin will thank you for it.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.