‘Tis the season for cozy nights by the fire, steaming cups of cocoa, and festive cheer. But winter’s chill isn’t always as kind to your skin. As the air turns crisp, it also becomes uncomfortably dry, often leaving skin dull, flaky and thirsty for moisture. If you’re managing conditions like eczema, rosacea or psoriasis, the season can be even tougher.
Here’s why winter dries out your skin—and, more importantly, how you can keep it hydrated and glowing all season long.
Why Does Winter Dry Out Your Skin?
Winter air has low humidity, meaning there’s less moisture available for your skin to absorb. Indoor heating makes matters worse by further drying the air. Add hot showers and biting winds to the mix, and your skin’s natural barrier takes a hit, leading to dryness, irritation, and even flare-ups of chronic skin conditions.
“Winter weather is especially harsh on those with eczema or rosacea,” explained Dr. Dahlia Saleh, a board-certified dermatologist serving the St. Petersburg, Florida, area for BayCare Medical Group. “Environmental changes can weaken an already fragile skin barrier, making symptoms more pronounced.”
Tips to Keep Your Skin Hydrated and Glowing
Hydrate from the Inside Out
Drink plenty of water and incorporate hydrating foods like cucumber, oranges, and watermelon into your diet. Staying hydrated internally supports your skin’s natural barrier.
Switch to a Hydrating Cleanser
Gel and foaming cleansers can be too harsh in winter. Opt for a cream-based or oil cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
Level Up Your Moisturizer
Winter calls for richer, more protective formulas. Look for moisturizers with powerhouse ingredients like:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
- Ceramides
- Petrolatum
- Squalane
“Applying moisturizer to slightly damp skin after cleansing is a game-changer,” said Dr. Saleh. “It locks in water and reinforces your skin’s natural barrier, providing longer-lasting hydration.”
For an extra boost, layer a hydrating serum or hyaluronic acid under your moisturizer.
Additionally, opt for fragrance-free products whenever possible. “Fragrances can irritate already dry or sensitive skin, especially during winter,” explained Dr. Saleh. “Choosing products without added fragrance is one simple way to avoid unnecessary irritation and keep your skin calm and healthy.”
Invest in a Humidifier
A humidifier can restore much-needed moisture to the air, which benefits not only your skin, but also your sinuses and overall comfort during winter,” noted Dr. Saleh. Place a humidifier in your bedroom or living area to counteract the dry indoor air to help maintain skin moisture and prevent overnight dehydration.
Shield Your Skin
Don’t neglect SPF in the winter—UV rays are still present. Protect your skin with sunscreen and use a scarf or face mask to guard against harsh winds.
With a little extra care and attention, you can keep your skin hydrated and radiant all winter long. Combatting dryness isn’t just about slathering on products—it’s about understanding your skin’s needs and creating a winter-specific routine.
“It takes time for dry skin to recover, so start these habits early and stick with them,” advised Dr. Saleh.
Embrace the season with confidence and keep your skin glowing all winter long!
provided by BayCare