When fall and winter arrive, the drop in temperature and humidity can wreak havoc on your skin. The dry, cold air, combined with indoor heating, tends to leave our skin feeling tight, flaky, and sometimes even irritated. But don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to lock in moisture and keep your skin glowing through the chilly months. Here are 15 tips and tricks to help your skin stay hydrated all season long.
1. USE A HUMIDIFIER AT HOME
Dry indoor air is one of the biggest culprits behind winter skin woes. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air, which can help prevent your skin from becoming overly dry. Keep one in your bedroom at night to boost hydration while you sleep.
2. SWITCH TO A CREAMY CLEANSER
Foaming cleansers may leave your skin feeling squeaky clean, but they also strip away natural oils. During the colder months, opt for a creamy or oil-based cleanser that helps retain moisture while still removing dirt and impurities.
3. MOISTURIZE IMMEDIATELY AFTER SHOWERING
The best time to lock in moisture is when your skin is still damp. After showering, gently pat your skin dry with a towel and apply your favorite moisturizer right away. This helps trap water in the skin, keeping it hydrated longer.
4. EXFOLIATE GENTLY
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, which can block moisture from being absorbed. However, be careful not to overdo it. Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week will help your skin stay smooth and able to absorb your hydrating products more effectively.
5. DRINK PLENTY OF WATER
Hydration starts from the inside out. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if you’re not feeling thirsty. Herbal teas are a great way to warm up and hydrate at the same time!
6. CHOOSE A RICH, OIL-BASED MOISTURIZER
In winter, your skin can use all the help it can get. Choose a thicker, oil-based moisturizer to form a protective barrier that prevents moisture from escaping. Look for ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or squalane for added hydration.
7. AVOID HOT SHOWERS
While a hot shower may sound comforting, the heat can strip your skin of its natural oils. Go for lukewarm water instead, and keep showers short to minimize moisture loss.
8. USE A FACE OIL
If you’re still experiencing dryness after moisturizing, consider adding a nourishing face oil to your routine. Oils like jojoba, rosehip, and marula can deeply hydrate the skin and give you that healthy glow you crave.
9. KEEP YOUR HANDS MOISTURIZED
Your hands are often the first part of your body to show signs of dryness. Keep a small tube of hand cream in your bag or by your desk to apply throughout the day, especially after washing your hands.
10. AVOID ALCOHOL-BASED TONERS
Many toners contain alcohol, which can dry out the skin. Instead, look for toners with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, or rosewater to balance and hydrate your skin.
11. EAT SKIN-BOOSTING FOODS
What you eat affects your skin’s appearance and moisture levels. Include plenty of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, to help support your skin’s hydration from within.
12. GET A WINTER-FRIENDLY SUNSCREEN
Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean the sun isn’t still affecting your skin. Choose a hydrating sunscreen with added SPF protection to shield your skin from harmful UV rays, which can still cause dryness and irritation.
13. USE A SLEEPING MASK
Hydrate while you sleep with a thick, overnight hydrating mask. These masks help lock in moisture and provide your skin with the intense hydration it needs to recover overnight, leaving you with soft, smooth skin by morning.
14. PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE ELEMENTS
When you’re outside, protect your skin with scarves, gloves, and hats to minimize exposure to harsh winds and cold air. Layering up isn’t just for warmth—it helps preserve moisture in your skin, too. Try to dodge any sarcastic comments too..
15. GIVE YOUR SKIN TIME TO ADAPT
Remember, skin takes time to adjust to seasonal changes. Be patient with your routine and allow your skin to acclimate to the colder months. Sometimes a small tweak—like switching your cleanser or moisturizer—can make a world of difference.
