Winter Skin Survival Kit: Essential Tips for Maintaining Healthy Skin During the Cold Months

As winter approaches, the cold outdoor air and dry indoor heat can affect your skin. This often results in dryness, irritation, and discomfort, especially for those with conditions like eczema or psoriasis. To help you safeguard your skin and keep it hydrated during the colder months, here’s a collection of skincare tips and products recommended by dermatologists to incorporate into your routine.

Facial Cleanser: Keep It Moisturized

During winter, your facial cleanser should hydrate rather than strip away moisture.

Look for: Cleansers that are labeled “gentle” and “moisturizing.” Steer clear of products with alcohol, as they can dry out your skin, advises Dr. Joyce Davis, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.

Body Cleanser: Hydrate from Head to Toe

Your body deserves just as much attention as your face in the winter. A hydrating body wash can help prevent your skin from becoming dry.

Look for: Creamy formulations such as liquid, gel, or mousse cleansers. Dr. Benjamin Barankin, a dermatologist in Toronto, recommends opting for fragrance-free products to minimize irritation. For those with eczema, Dr. Davis suggests cleansers that include ingredients like petrolatum, shea butter, or silicones.

Facial Moisturizer: Lock in Extra Hydration

In colder climates, lightweight lotions might not cut it. Opt for richer moisturizers to keep your skin protected and hydrated.

Look for: Creams, oils, or balms that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which helps draw moisture into the skin, or jojoba oil. Lactic acid moisturizers can also gently exfoliate dry, flaky skin while providing hydration, according to Dr. Robert Anolik, a dermatologist in New York City.

Body Moisturizer: Seal in Moisture While Damp

To enhance hydration, apply body moisturizer right after a shower or bath, while your skin is still damp. This technique helps lock in moisture and keeps your skin nourished for a longer time.

When selecting products, opt for thicker creams or ointments that come in tubs or tubes, as they are generally more moisturizing than those in pump bottles. Look for ingredients like glycerin, lanolin, petrolatum, and shea butter, which are particularly effective for dry skin. Dr. Davis also points out that hyaluronic acid is increasingly being included in body care products for enhanced hydration.

Rejuvenating Products: Be Gentle on Exfoliation

During winter, it's wise to reduce the use of strong exfoliants or anti-aging products such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or retinol, as these can be drying.

Look for: Products with lower concentrations of these powerful ingredients, or consider using them less often during the colder months. Dr. Anolik recommends trying over-the-counter retinols if prescription-strength retinoids are too harsh for your skin in winter.

Sunscreen: Protect Your Skin Year-Round

Even in winter, the sun can harm your skin, particularly on exposed areas like your face, neck, ears, and hands. Remember to apply sunscreen, regardless of the cold weather.

Look for: Moisturizing sunscreens with a minimum SPF of 30 and broad-spectrum protection. According to Dr. Barankin, creams tend to be more hydrating than lotions or sprays. For added protection, layer sunscreen over your moisturizer or wear UV-protective accessories like gloves and sunglasses.

By selecting the right products and adhering to these dermatologist-recommended tips, you can maintain healthy, hydrated, and radiant skin throughout the winter season.