Ready to winter-proof your skin routine? These easy swaps will transform how your skin handles the cold 

As the temperature drops and the humidity levels of the warmer months retreat, your skin can suffer from the colder air outside and drying central heating inside. The result? The all-too-familiar winter skin complaints or dehydrated, irritated, uncomfortable skin. 

So, what should you do when your summer skincare routine just isn’t cutting it anymore? You need a strategic approach ahead of the winter months that looks after your skin’s barrier protection so you can winter-proof your skin routine before any damage sets in. 

How winter weather affects your skin – and what you can do about it 

Winter weather can disrupt your skin’s natural barrier function. Cold winter air holds significantly less moisture than summer’s warm air, and when you add wind into the equation, you have a moisture-stripping environment that leaves even oily skin types feeling dehydrated.  

When the temperature drops outside, we retreat inside and pop the heating on, which only compounds the problem by removing what little humidity remains in the air, creating an environment that continuously draws moisture from your skin. 

This environmental shift affects your skin’s lipid barrier – the protective layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out. When this barrier becomes compromised, you’ll notice increased sensitivity, flakiness, redness, and that dreaded winter itchiness. 

Step 1: Change up your cleansing routine

Switch gel cleansers for a cream or oil-based one that removes make-up and dirt without stripping your skin of its natural, protective oils. Choose a cleanser that contains humectants like glycerin, ceramides or hyaluronic acids, as they help to maintain moisture even while cleansing.

It’s not just products that you need to rethink as winter sets in: a hot shower might feel great on a chilly morning, but hot water is one of the fastest ways to strip your skin of essential oils. Try to stick to lukewarm water and cut your drench time to reduce drying out your skin.

Step 2: Layer your skincare

Layering your skincare is a key strategy when it comes to winter skincare. The more you pack into your routine, the better your skin will feel. Use a hydrating toner or essence immediately after cleansing – while your skin is still damp, this helps create a moisture foundation for subsequent products to build upon. 

Next up, a layer of hyaluronic acid serum – a powerhouse ingredient that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Again, apply to slightly damp skin to maximise its moisture-binding potential. If your skin is particularly sensitive, choose a serum containing niacinamide; it helps to strengthen the skin’s barrier while reducing inflammation.

Step 3: Upgrade your moisturiser

Unfortunately your lightweight summer moisturiser just won’t do the job in winter. You need a cream that contains ceramides, which help repair and maintain the skin barrier, or ingredients like shea butter and squalane that provide both hydration and protection. 

Layering can work here too. To really lock in the moisture apply your regular moisturiser, then layer a facial oil or a heavier night cream over it during particularly harsh weather. 

For extremely dry areas like elbows, knees, and heels, consider adding an occlusive layer like argan oil, jojoba oil, or safflower oil before bed. This creates a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss overnight when your skin is working to repair itself. Why not try some home-made products to save your skin this winter? From a golden beeswax balm, to a gliterring exfoliator, we’ve got recipes for you to try.

Winter skincare non-negotiables 

1. Keep using SPF. It might not feel as hot as the summer sun but UV rays can still cause significant damage in the winter months.
   Continue using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day; a lot of winter moisturisers come with built-in SPF, making it easier to maintain this crucial step without adding extra layers to your routine. 
2. Consider a skincare herbal medicine. Support your skin from within and reduce inflammation caused by harsh winter weather with HRI Herbal Clear Complexion.
   It contains Burdock Root, which reduces inflammation; fights bacteria that thrives in heated indoor environments; and delivers antioxidant protection against cold-weather damage. It also contains Blue Flag Rhizome, which works to support liver detoxification when winter lifestyle changes burden the body, preventing toxin buildup that can manifest as skin breakouts, and helping maintain the natural glow that winter weather often strips away. 
3. Think lips, hands and eyes. Certain areas need special attention during the winter months as they’re more exposed to colder weather.
   Use a barrier for your lips that includes lanolin or ceramides but avoid menthol as it could be irritating on broken skin; use hand cream regularly after washing to lock in moisture; and support the delicate skin around your eyes – which often shows the first signs of winter stress as its thinner and has fewer oil glands – with an eye cream that contains peptides or retinol.
   
4. Introduce any changes slowly and steadily. Your skin needs time to adjust to new products, and introducing everything at once can lead to irritation or breakouts. Begin by switching your cleanser, then add heavier moisturizers and additional serums as needed. 

Pay attention to your skin’s signals. If you notice persistent tightness, flaking, or increased sensitivity, it’s time to amp up your moisture game. Conversely, if you develop clogged pores or greasiness, you might be overdoing the heavy creams.