As old man winter gets cozy on the East Coast, our skin often takes the brunt of the cold weather. The chilly weather and low humidity levels can leave our skin dry, flaky, and prone to irritation. However, with a few simple tweaks to your skincare routine, you can keep your skin glowing and healthy throughout the winter season.
More Reading: Gua Sha: Benefits for Your Skincare
In this post, I’m sharing some effective winter skincare tips to help you combat the harsh elements and maintain a radiant complexion. During these months, I mask weekly and slather on everything I can to stay hydrated and dewy. Most days, I’m makeup free just allowing all of the products to do their job. You can do it, too! It doesn’t take long it’s just about consistency.
Read on for winter skincare tips every girl should know.
Note: there are affiliate links in this posts. All opinions are true and honest.
Hydration is Key
The cold air outside and the warm, dry air indoors can strip your skin of its natural moisture. To combat this, make hydration a top priority in your winter skincare routine. Opt for a rich, nourishing moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Apply it generously to your face and body immediately after showering to lock in moisture. Additionally, consider using a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air, preventing your skin from drying out.
If you’re going to invest in a good body oil, Osea is one of my all time favorites. Nothing has been able to moisturize my skin like this product.
I also like Evian facial spray to keep your skin moist.
I like this humidifier by Pure. It’s a great size and it’s quiet. Perfect for your office area, bedroom and beyond.
Gentle Cleansing
Avoid harsh cleansers that can further strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that will cleanse your skin without causing dryness. If you have dry or combo skin, consider cleansing your face with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can exacerbate dryness. I like to do a double cleanse with cold water but I have combination skin. Test a small area to see if your skin can handle it. Cold water tightens pores which is why I prefer it. Also, remember to pat dry and be gentle applying anything onto your face. I like using cheesecloth
Currently obsessed with the Cosrx skincare line.
More Reading: Skincare: 7 Steps You’re Probably Not Doing
Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliation is crucial in the winter to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. Choose a mild exfoliant with ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to slough off dry, flaky skin. However, be mindful not to over-exfoliate, as this can lead to increased sensitivity and break-outs. Aim to exfoliate 1-2 times a week for optimal results.
Tatcha rice polish is my go to but they also sell an exfoliating cleanser if you want to save a step.
Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable
Even during winter, UV rays can cause damage to your skin. Snow can reflect sunlight, intensifying the exposure. Make sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your winter skincare routine. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it to exposed areas, including your face, neck, and hands.
My favorite SPF products at the moment are Supergoop! Glow screen and Lancome SPF 50. I love that you can use both as a primer/SPF.
Pamper Your Lips
Cold winds can lead to chapped and cracked lips. Ouch! Keep your lips soft and supple by regularly applying a nourishing lip balm or ointment during the day and a lip mask at night. Look for products containing ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and vitamin E to provide intense hydration and protection.
I love using Laneige lip mask at night time and Glossier’s lip balm during the day. Summer Friday’s is a fav, too.
Stay Hydrated from Within
Maintaining healthy skin also involves staying hydrated from the inside out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and flush out toxins. Consider incorporating hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables into your diet to support overall skin health.
My favorite water bottle right now is this glass one. Tip: Glass or stainless steel water bottles keep water fresh and prevent harmful plastics. Stay away from straws as they will cause “smoker’s lines” around the mouth.
Winter doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your skin’s health and radiance.
By adjusting your skincare routine to focus on hydration, gentle cleansing, regular exfoliation, sun protection, and lip care, you can keep your skin glowing and resilient all season long. Embrace the chill with these winter skincare tips and step into spring with a radiant complexion.
