How to Look After Your Skin in Winter

Winter can be tough on your skin—especially during the colder spells we are currently experiencing. Cold air, rain, harsh winds, and indoor heating all work together to strip moisture from the skin, leaving it dry, dull, itchy, or irritated.

With a few simple changes to your skincare routine and daily habits, you can keep your skin healthy, nourished, and glowing throughout the colder months.

Why Winter Affects Your Skin

During winter, the air holds less moisture, which leads to increased water loss from the skin. Indoor heating further dries the air, weakening the skin’s natural barrier. As a result, skin may feel tight, flaky, more sensitive, or prone to redness and breakouts.

Understanding these changes helps you adjust your skincare routine to better protect and repair your skin.

Switch to a Gentle Cleanser

Some cleansers can be too harsh in winter, as they remove the skin’s natural oils. Instead, opt for a gentle, cream-based, or hydrating cleanser that cleans effectively without stripping moisture.

Wash your face with lukewarm water—hot water may feel comforting, but it can worsen dryness and irritation.

My favourites include:

• Juliette Armand Sensitive Cleansing Gel

• Juliette Armand Cleansing Milk

• Nu Skin Sensitive Cleanser

• Nu Skin HydraClean Creamy Cleansing Lotion

  
  

Moisturise More (and Smarter)

A lightweight summer moisturiser may not be enough during winter. Choose a richer, more nourishing cream containing ingredients such as:

• Hyaluronic acid

• Ceramides

• Glycerin

• Shea butter or squalane

Apply your moisturiser immediately after cleansing to help lock in hydration.

Tip: Using a serum before your moisturiser will significantly boost hydration.

My favourites:

• Juliette Armand Hydra Calming Cream

• Juliette Armand Hydra Repairing Cream

• Nu Skin Day Dream Protective Creamy Day Moisturiser SPF 30

• Moisturize Me Intense Hydrating Cream

Serum:

• Juliette Armand Hyaluronic Acid Serum

  
  

Don’t Skip Sunscreen

Even in winter, UV rays can damage your skin—especially on cloudy days or when around snow, which reflects sunlight. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily to help prevent premature ageing and long-term skin damage.

My favourites:

• Juliette Armand Sunfilm Gel

• Juliette Armand SPF 50 Tinted Gel

  
  

Exfoliate Gently

Dry winter skin can lead to a build-up of dead skin cells, making the complexion appear dull. Reduced cell turnover as we age can further contribute to this.

Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week helps remove flakes and allows moisturisers to absorb more effectively. Avoid harsh scrubs; instead, choose mild chemical exfoliants or very soft physical exfoliators.

My favourites:

• Juliette Armand AHA Prep Lotion

• Nu Skin 180º AHA Facial Peel and Neutraliser

  
  

Protect Your Skin from the Cold

Cold winds can be especially harsh on exposed skin. Wear scarves, gloves, and hats when outdoors to protect your face and hands. Don’t forget your lips—use a nourishing lip balm regularly.

My favourite:

• Elizabeth Arden Lip Balm and Night Treatment

  
  

Hydrate from Within

Drinking enough water is just as important in winter as it is in summer. If cold water feels unappealing, try herbal teas or cordial diluted with warm water. I also use electrolytes daily as part of my morning routine.

Adjust Your Shower and Bath Habits

Long, hot showers and baths can strip the skin of its natural oils. Try to:

• Use warm rather than hot water

• Apply body moisturiser immediately after bathing to seal in moisture

  
  

Final Thoughts

Winter skincare is all about protection, hydration, and repair. By making small but consistent changes—using gentler products, moisturising regularly, and protecting your skin from harsh conditions—you can maintain healthy, comfortable skin throughout the colder months.

Your skin works hard to protect you—give it the extra care it deserves this winter.