14 Skincare Mistakes People Make in December Without Realizing It

December brings a lot of changes, such as colder weather, more indoor heating, and increased holiday stress. But did you know these factors can also affect your skin in ways you might not expect? Many people unknowingly make skincare mistakes that leave their skin feeling dry, irritated, or even damaged. It’s time to adjust your routine to suit the season and give your skin the care it deserves.

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Not Adjusting Moisturizer for Colder Weather

When winter comes, the air becomes dry and cold, which can make your skin feel tight and uncomfortable. Many people continue using their light, summer moisturizers, which are no longer effective in colder weather. To avoid dryness, switch to a richer moisturizer that provides extra hydration and helps lock in moisture. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which are perfect for keeping your skin nourished. This simple adjustment will help your skin stay soft and smooth during the harsh winter months.

Using a thicker moisturizer creates a barrier that protects your skin from the cold air. Apply it while your skin is still slightly damp after showering for better absorption. This will ensure that your skin stays hydrated and doesn’t lose moisture to the dry winter environment. Make moisturizing a regular part of your routine to prevent any unwanted dryness. A rich moisturizer will make all the difference in your skincare routine during colder months.

Skipping Sunscreen on Cloudy Days

Even when it’s cloudy or rainy, UV rays can still reach your skin and cause damage over time. Many people believe that sunscreen is only necessary on sunny days, but this is not true. Even in the winter months, applying sunscreen is crucial to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and apply it every day, regardless of the weather. This habit will protect your skin from sun damage and keep it looking youthful and healthy.

UV rays can penetrate through the clouds and still harm your skin, causing dark spots and fine lines. By using sunscreen daily, you help prevent long-term skin issues and premature aging. Don’t forget to reapply if you’re outdoors for extended periods. Make sunscreen a part of your everyday skincare routine to keep your skin safe. This small step will keep your skin protected and looking its best all year round.

Overdoing Hot Showers

Hot showers may feel great in December, but they can actually dry out your skin. The hot water strips away your skin’s natural oils, which are necessary for keeping it moisturized and healthy. To protect your skin, take shorter showers with lukewarm water instead of hot water. After your shower, apply a moisturizing lotion to seal in the moisture while your skin is still damp. This will help keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from becoming dry and flaky.

Hot water can irritate your skin, making it more sensitive and prone to redness. Using a gentler shower routine will help maintain your skin’s moisture barrier. Also, avoid harsh soaps or body washes that may further dry out your skin. These small adjustments will keep your skin feeling comfortable and smooth, even during the coldest days of winter. Moisturizing after every shower is a key step in maintaining soft, hydrated skin.

Neglecting Lip Care

Your lips can become dry, cracked, and painful during the winter if you forget to protect them. The cold weather and dry indoor air can cause your lips to lose moisture quickly. To prevent chapped lips, use a nourishing lip balm that contains ingredients like shea butter or beeswax. Apply it regularly, especially before bed, to keep your lips soft and hydrated overnight. Don’t forget to exfoliate your lips once a week to remove dead skin and keep them smooth.

Lip care is just as important as the rest of your skincare routine, especially during the winter months. Keeping a lip balm with you ensures that your lips stay moisturized throughout the day. Make sure to choose a balm with nourishing ingredients that help protect against the cold. By giving your lips the care they need, you’ll prevent cracks and discomfort. Your lips will stay soft and healthy all season long.

Using Harsh Exfoliants

While exfoliating is important for removing dead skin, using harsh scrubs during winter can irritate and dry out your skin. The cold air can already make your skin sensitive, and abrasive exfoliants can worsen the dryness. Instead of rough scrubs, opt for gentler exfoliants, like those with chemical exfoliants such as AHAs or BHAs. These exfoliants remove dead skin cells without causing irritation or stripping moisture. Limit exfoliating to once a week to avoid over-stripping your skin and maintain its natural balance.

Gentle exfoliation is key to keeping your skin smooth without causing damage. Harsh exfoliants can disrupt your skin’s barrier, leaving it more vulnerable to dryness and sensitivity. By switching to a milder exfoliant, you can still enjoy the benefits of smooth, glowing skin without the risk of irritation. Make exfoliating a gentle part of your routine and your skin will remain fresh and healthy. This change will make a significant difference, especially during the colder months.

Forgetting to Hydrate From Within

Many people focus on skincare products but forget that hydration starts from the inside. During the winter, people often drink less water, which can lead to dry, flaky skin. To keep your skin hydrated, drink plenty of water throughout the day, even when you don’t feel thirsty. Adding water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables to your diet can also help keep your skin hydrated. Staying hydrated from the inside will help your skin retain moisture and stay soft and plump.

Drinking water is essential to maintain healthy, glowing skin. Hydrating from the inside out ensures that your skin remains moisturized, especially during dry winter months. Incorporating more water-rich foods into your meals can also contribute to your skin’s hydration. Keep a water bottle with you to remind yourself to stay hydrated throughout the day. This simple habit will keep your skin looking fresh and radiant.

Using the Wrong Face Masks

Face masks can be a great way to pamper your skin, but using the wrong one in winter can lead to irritation or dryness. Masks with harsh ingredients, like clay or alcohol, can strip your skin of moisture, making it even drier. Choose hydrating masks that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera, honey, or glycerin, which provide nourishment and moisture. Apply a hydrating mask once a week to restore hydration and leave your skin feeling fresh. This small change will ensure your skin stays smooth and moisturized throughout the winter.

Hydrating masks are perfect for replenishing moisture, but make sure to pick the right one for your skin’s needs. A moisturizing mask will not only hydrate but also soothe your skin, preventing dryness and irritation. Add a mask to your routine to keep your skin glowing and healthy during the colder months. This extra step will help your skin stay soft, hydrated, and balanced.

Exposing Skin to Indoor Heat

Indoor heating can be a lifesaver during the winter, but it can also dry out your skin. The dry air from heaters strips your skin of moisture, making it feel tight and uncomfortable. To prevent this, use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home. Additionally, apply a richer moisturizer to create a protective barrier against the dry environment. These simple adjustments will help keep your skin feeling soft and hydrated despite the indoor heat.

A humidifier will keep the air moist and benefit both your skin and overall comfort. Adding moisture to the air is a quick and easy way to prevent dry, irritated skin. Make sure to keep your skin well-moisturized throughout the winter to keep it smooth and hydrated. These small changes will make a big difference in how your skin feels and looks.

Not Dressing for Cold Weather Properly

Cold weather in December can cause your skin to become irritated and dry, especially if it’s exposed to wind and chill. Many people forget to protect their skin when going outside, which can lead to redness and discomfort. To avoid this, cover your face, hands, and neck with scarves, gloves, and hats when heading outdoors. Make sure to apply a thick moisturizer before you go outside to create an extra layer of protection. These small steps will help keep your skin safe and comfortable in the cold.

Dressing warmly will help shield your skin from the harsh winter elements. A good moisturizer can act as a barrier against the wind and cold, preventing damage to your skin. Don’t forget to cover your skin whenever you go outside, and you’ll reduce the risk of irritation. With the right precautions, your skin will stay healthy and protected all season long.

Ignoring Skin Around the Eyes

The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, making it more prone to dryness and irritation. Many people forget to apply eye cream or use their regular moisturizer on this sensitive area, which isn’t always enough. To prevent dryness, puffiness, and fine lines, use a moisturizing eye cream that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides. Gently tap the cream around your eyes with your ring finger to avoid pulling or stretching the skin. Regular use will keep the skin around your eyes smooth and hydrated, reducing puffiness and wrinkles.

The skin around your eyes requires extra attention, especially in winter when it’s more vulnerable to dryness. An eye cream will help protect this sensitive area and keep it looking youthful. Make it a habit to apply eye cream daily to maintain a refreshed and smooth eye area. This simple step will help you avoid dryness and irritation in the delicate skin around your eyes.

Not Adjusting Cleansers for Winter

In the winter, cold air and indoor heating can make your skin more sensitive, yet many people continue using the same facial cleansers they used during warmer months. Harsh cleansers can strip moisture from your skin, leaving it dry and tight. To protect your skin, switch to a gentler, hydrating cleanser that doesn’t dry out your skin. Look for products with nourishing ingredients like glycerin or ceramides that help your skin retain moisture. This adjustment will ensure your skin stays clean without losing essential hydration.

A milder cleanser will cleanse your skin without causing dryness. Switching to a moisturizing cleanser will prevent irritation, keeping your skin soft and comfortable. Adjusting your cleanser is a simple yet effective way to improve your skincare routine during the colder months. This small change can make your skin feel fresh and hydrated.

Using Harsh Products on Sensitive Skin

Cold weather can make your skin more sensitive, but many people continue using strong products that may cause irritation. Harsh toners, exfoliants, or alcohol-based products can strip away moisture, leaving skin red and irritated. To prevent this, switch to soothing, alcohol-free products designed for sensitive skin. Choose gentle, hydrating serums or toners with calming ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera. These products will keep your skin comfortable and protected during the winter months.

Using gentle, soothing products will help your skin stay calm and hydrated. Avoid harsh ingredients that can irritate your skin, especially when it’s more sensitive in winter. Switching to milder skincare will prevent redness and discomfort, leaving your skin looking healthy. This adjustment will make a significant difference in how your skin feels.

Over-Exfoliating

Exfoliating can help keep your skin smooth, but over-exfoliating in December can damage your skin, making it more vulnerable to dryness and irritation. Exfoliating too often can strip your skin of essential oils, leading to redness and sensitivity. To avoid this, limit exfoliation to once a week, and choose gentle exfoliants that don’t contain harsh grains or particles. Chemical exfoliants, like AHAs or BHAs, are often milder and more effective for removing dead skin cells without causing irritation. By exfoliating less often, your skin will remain smooth without the risk of over-stripping.

Exfoliating once a week will keep your skin refreshed without the risk of damaging it. Gentle exfoliants are kinder to your skin, especially in winter when it’s already more sensitive. This simple change will help keep your skin looking radiant and healthy, without causing unnecessary irritation. Stick to a gentle routine and your skin will thank you.

Neglecting Hand and Foot Care

In winter, hands and feet are particularly vulnerable to dryness and cracking, but they are often overlooked in skincare routines. The cold weather and lack of moisture can cause your hands and feet to feel rough and uncomfortable. To protect them, apply a rich hand cream and foot balm regularly, especially before bed. Use products that contain shea butter, petroleum jelly, or glycerin to lock in moisture overnight. Taking the time to care for your hands and feet will keep them soft and hydrated despite the cold.

Exfoliating your hands and feet once a week can also help remove dead skin and keep them smooth. Moisturizing regularly will prevent dryness and discomfort, ensuring your skin stays soft and healthy throughout the winter months. By incorporating hand and foot care into your routine, you’ll maintain smooth and nourished skin.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.