As the days get shorter and temperatures start to drop, your skin faces new challenges that require a shift in your skincare routine. Just as you swap out your wardrobe for warmer clothing, your skin needs its own set of adjustments to stay healthy and glowing through winter’s harsher conditions. Here’s a closer look at why this transition is so important and tips to help you create a winter-proof skincare routine.
1. Why Winter Affects Your Skin Differently
In winter, the air is generally colder and drier, which can zap moisture from your skin. The combination of low humidity outdoors and indoor heating creates an environment that causes your skin to lose hydration more rapidly. This often leads to dryness, flakiness, and a compromised skin barrier that can make your skin more prone to irritation and sensitivity. Winter weather can also slow down your skin’s natural exfoliation process, leaving it looking dull and feeling rough.
2. Moisture is Key: The Transition from Lightweight to Richer Formulas
The lightweight, oil-free moisturisers that work well in summer may not provide enough hydration during winter. As the air gets drier, your skin will benefit from richer, more nourishing formulas that lock in moisture. Look for moisturisers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which help attract and retain water in the skin.
Courtyard Recommends: ZO Skin Health Renewal & Recovery Creme, ZO Skin Health Hydrating Creme.
Pro Tip: Don't skip your daily SPF. Even though it’s colder, UV rays are still present and can damage your skin. Opt for a broad-spectrum SPF to keep your skin protected year-round.
3. Incorporate a Gentle Cleanser to Avoid Stripping
During winter, it’s best to replace your foaming or gel-based cleansers with a gentler, hydrating cleanser. Harsh cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils, making it more prone to dryness and irritation. Instead, look for creamy or oil-based cleansers that cleanse without stripping, allowing your skin to maintain a healthy level of hydration even in colder weather.
Courtyard Recommends: ZO Skin Health Hydrating Cleanser, ZO Skin Health Balancing Emulsion
4. Exfoliate – But Gently!
While exfoliation is key to maintaining a smooth complexion, it’s essential to be more mindful during winter. Over-exfoliating can damage your skin barrier, especially when it’s already vulnerable to the harsh conditions of winter. Swap out harsh physical scrubs for gentle exfoliants which provide mild exfoliation while being less abrasive.
Exfoliating just once or twice a week is usually enough to remove dead skin cells, allowing your moisturiser to penetrate better and your skin to look fresher and brighter.
Courtyard Recommends: ZO Skin Health Enzyme Peel, ZO Skin Health Duo Scrub - ALL EXFOLIATORS ARE 10% OFF TILL THE END OF NOVEMBER
5. Don’t Forget About Your Lips and Eyes
The skin on your lips and around your eyes is thinner and more delicate, making it particularly susceptible to winter dryness. Make sure to use an eye cream with nourishing ingredients like peptides, vitamin E, or shea butter. For lips, opt for a hydrating balm with ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or lanolin, which provide lasting moisture and protection against the cold.
Courtyard Recommends: ZO Skin Health Intense Eye Creme, Circadia Lip Rejuvenator
6. Drink Up and Eat Right
Staying hydrated is essential for healthy skin, no matter the season. Even though you may not feel as thirsty in winter, make it a habit to drink enough water throughout the day. Also, include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds) and antioxidants (like berries, leafy greens, and nuts) to support skin health from within. These nutrients help your skin retain moisture, improve elasticity, and reduce inflammation.
7. Winter-Proof Your Hands, Too
Your hands are also susceptible to winter dryness, especially since they’re frequently exposed to the elements and washed often. To prevent cracked, dry hands, keep a nourishing hand cream handy, and apply it after washing your hands and before bed. For added protection, wear gloves when you’re outside in cold weather.
Winter Skincare Checklist
To make things easy, here’s a quick winter skincare checklist:
Switch to a creamy or oil-based cleanser
Use a richer moisturiser or night cream
Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week
Apply sunscreen daily
Moisturise lips and eyes with dedicated balms/creams
Stay hydrated and eat skin-friendly foods
Protect hands with nourishing cream and gloves
In Summary
Adjusting your skincare routine as winter approaches can make all the difference in maintaining healthy, radiant skin. By swapping in richer moisturisers, and gentle cleansers, you can help your skin stay resilient and protected against the season’s drying effects. Just a few simple adjustments can keep you glowing even in the coldest months, proving that your skin doesn’t have to suffer simply because it’s winter.
Need help choosing the right products for your skin? Our friendly team at the Courtyard Aesthetic Clinic are always happy to help and advise you on what fits best for your unique skin!
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