Cold weather and low humidity strip your skin of moisture, leaving it vulnerable to damage. But with the right strategies, you can maintain hydrated and glowing skin all winter long. Here are five simple yet effective cold weather skincare hacks.
1. Prioritize a Proper Moisturizer
During the colder months, your lightweight summer lotion might not cut it. Opt for a thicker, richer moisturizer with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter. These ingredients work to strengthen your skin’s barrier and lock in hydration. For an extra boost, layer a hydrating serum underneath your moisturizer. Apply products to damp skin to help seal in water. If you’re battling extreme dryness, consider incorporating an overnight sleeping mask for intense hydration while you sleep.
2. Don’t Skip SPF
Sunscreen isn’t just for summer. Snow and ice can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays, increasing your exposure even in overcast weather. Using a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 protects your skin from damage, including dryness, premature aging, and hyperpigmentation. Look for moisturizers or foundations with added SPF to simplify your routine, and don’t forget to reapply throughout the day if you’re spending time outside.
3. Humidify Your Space
Indoor heating dries out the air, and by extension, your skin. A humidifier is a game-changer for maintaining moisture levels in your skin during the winter. Set one up in your bedroom or workspace to keep your skin hydrated around the clock. As a bonus, humidifiers also reduce static electricity and may help prevent dry nasal passages and irritated throats.
4. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser
Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it even drier and more irritated during the colder months. Instead, opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that effectively removes dirt and makeup without disrupting your skin barrier. Look for formulas with soothing ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, or oat extract to keep your skin clean and calm. Avoid foaming cleansers with sulfates, as they can exacerbate dryness.
5. Exfoliate Strategically
Exfoliation is key to removing dead skin cells that can build up and make your skin appear dull, but overdoing it in the winter can cause irritation. Switch to a mild chemical exfoliant like lactic acid or mandelic acid, which are gentler on dry, sensitive skin compared to physical scrubs. Use it 1-2 times a week, and follow up with a nourishing moisturizer to replenish lost hydration. Strategic exfoliation allows your skincare products to penetrate deeper and work more effectively, leaving your skin smoother and brighter.
Cover Photo by The Nix Company
