5 Steps to Soft, Hydrated Skin During Winter
Winter can be challenging for the skin. Cold outdoor temperatures, dry air and indoor heating can lead to increased moisture loss and a weakened skin barrier. As a result, the skin may feel tight, dry, sensitive or appear dull and uneven.
With the right skincare approach, the skin can remain balanced, comfortable and hydrated throughout the winter season. This guide explains how the skin changes in winter and outlines five essential steps to help prevent dryness and redness.
Why does the skin change during winter
During winter, the skin is exposed to environmental factors that directly affect its condition. Cold air reduces natural oil production, while heated indoor environments lower humidity levels, causing moisture to evaporate more quickly from the skin. Frequent temperature changes between indoors and outdoors can further disrupt the skin barrier.
These factors combined often result in dryness, sensitivity, flaking and a lack of radiance.
Step 1 Cleanse gently
In winter, the skin benefits from gentle cleansing that removes impurities without disrupting the skin barrier. Harsh cleansers or frequent washing can strip the skin of essential lipids, making dryness worse.
Gentle a mild, non stripping cleanser and use lukewarm water instead of hot water. Cleansing once or twice a day is usually sufficient during colder months.
Gentle cleansing helps prepare the skin for hydration while maintaining comfort.
Step 2 Prioritise hydration
Hydration is one of the most important steps in winter skincare. A lack of moisture can cause the skin to feel tight and uncomfortable and can make fine lines more visible.
A hydrating product such as the Double Hydration Boost Gel HA helps replenish moisture levels in the skin. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, this gel attracts and retains moisture, supporting long lasting hydration without feeling heavy on the skin.
Applying a hydrating gel or serum to slightly damp skin improves absorption and helps lock in moisture, making it ideal for dry or dehydrated winter skin.
Step 3 Support the skin barrier
A healthy skin barrier helps protect the skin from environmental stress and prevents moisture loss. In winter, barrier support becomes especially important.
Ingredients like Niacinamide help strengthen the skin barrier and improve overall skin resilience. A lightweight moisturiser such as the Niacinamide Gel Moisturiser can support barrier function while maintaining hydration, making it suitable for daily use.
For skin that feels very dry or sensitive, reducing exfoliation and choosing nourishing formulas can significantly improve skin comfort.
Step 4 Pay attention to sensitive areas
Cold weather often requires a richer moisturiser to seal in hydration and protect the skin from external stressors.
A product like the Retinol Alternative Moisturiser provides nourishment and supports skin renewal without the irritation that traditional retinol can sometimes cause. This makes it suitable for winter use, even for sensitive or dry skin types.
Applying a moisturiser after hydration helps keep the skin soft, smooth and protected throughout the day.
Step 5 Use sunscreen daily
Even during winter, ultraviolet radiation remains present. Daily sunscreen use is essential to protect the skin from premature ageing and pigmentation.
Applying SPF as the final step in the morning routine helps maintain long term skin health and supports the effectiveness of the rest of your skincare routine.
Final thoughts
Winter skincare is about protection, hydration and balance. By using gentle cleansing, effective hydration and barrier supporting products, the skin can stay comfortable and healthy throughout the colder months.
Adjusting your routine to the season and choosing products that support the skin’s natural function helps maintain softness, resilience and radiance all winter long.
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