Key Summary

• Cold weather and indoor heating strip moisture from the skin, leading to dryness, flaking, and irritation.

• A winter-specific skincare routine can help retain moisture, protect the skin barrier, and prevent seasonal flare-ups.

• Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin help maintain skin hydration.

• Lifestyle adjustments, such as using a humidifier and avoiding long, hot showers, prevent excessive moisture loss.

• Certain skincare habits, like layering occlusives over moisturizers, can enhance hydration and repair the skin barrier.

How Does Winter Cause Dry Skin?

Photo by cottonbro studio from Pexels

Cold temperatures, low humidity, and indoor heating reduce moisture levels in the skin, causing tightness, rough texture, and flaking. In response to the harsh environment, the skin’s lipid barrier weakens, making it more prone to irritation, redness, and inflammation. Without proper hydration and barrier protection, dry skin can lead to itchiness, cracks, and increased sensitivity.

How to Treat Winter Dry Skin

Crafting the ideal skincare routine may be something you’ve already mastered during milder seasons, but winter presents unique challenges. The drop in temperature, harsh winds, and indoor heating may cause your skin to be dull or flare up. To combat these seasonal effects, you need to adjust a thing or two in your winter skin care routine

1. Use a Rich Moisturizer

iS CLINICAL Reparative Moisture Emulsion

Switch to a thicker, occlusive-based moisturizer containing ceramides, shea butter, and squalane to help lock in hydration and strengthen the skin barrier.

2. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser

Propaira Gentle Cleansing Wash

Foaming cleansers with harsh surfactants can strip the skin of natural oils. Opt for hydrating cream or oil-based cleansers that cleanse without compromising moisture.

3. Layer Skincare Products for Maximum Hydration

Isdinceutics - Hyaluronic Concentrate

IS Clinical Youth Eye Complex

Start with a hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid) and follow with a moisturizer and occlusive layer (such as petrolatum or facial oils) to seal in moisture.

For your body, consider applying oils prior to application of body lotion or moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated and lock in moisture. Oils create a barrier that helps your lotion absorb better, leaving your skin soft and nourished.

Bruxa Body Oil of Winter - 100mL

4. Incorporate Occlusives

iS CLINICAL Sheald Recovery Balm

Occlusives, like petroleum jelly, beeswax, and lanolin, act as a protective shield, preventing water loss from the skin.

5. Reduce Exfoliation

Dermaceutic Dual+ 30ml

Over-exfoliation can weaken the skin barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation and sensitivity. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week using mild chemical exfoliants like lactic acid instead of harsh physical scrubs.

6. Refresh Skin Throughout The Day with Facial Mist

Cold weather can strip moisture from your skin, leaving it dry and tight. A hydrating facial mist with firming ingredients can help replenish lost moisture and keep your skin feeling comfortable and nourished.

iS CLINICAL Copper Firming Mist

7. Don't Forget to Hydrate the Eyes

 Cold weather can strip moisture from the delicate eye area, leading to dryness and fine lines. A deeply hydrating eye treatment helps replenish lost moisture, keeping the skin around your eyes smooth, nourished, and protected.

Biopelle Triple Action Eye serum

8. Don’t Skip Sunscreen—Even in Winter

UV rays can still cause damage during colder months, contributing to dryness, premature aging, and uneven skin tone. A hydrating sunscreen with added skincare benefits helps protect your skin while keeping it nourished and glowing.

Airyday Pearl Glow SPF50+ Dreamscreen 75ml

9. Use a Humidifier

Indoor heating lowers air humidity, drying out the skin. A humidifier helps replenish lost moisture, maintaining optimal hydration levels.

Read More: 10 Simple Remedies for Dull Skin: Natural and Professional Treatments

Simple Lifestyle Changes to Soothe Dry Skin

• Take short (5-10 minute) baths and showers to avoid stripping the skin of natural oils.

• Apply moisturizer immediately after washing to trap hydration.

• Use ointments or creams instead of lotions, as they provide a thicker protective barrier.

• Wear lip balm or petroleum jelly to prevent chapped lips.

• Wear gloves to protect your hands from cold weather exposure.

• Choose soft, non-irritating fabrics (like cotton or silk) instead of wool or synthetic fibers that can aggravate dry skin.

• Avoid excessive heat exposure from fireplaces or direct heater airflow.

Avoid Alcohol-Based Skincare

Many toners and astringents contain alcohol, which can strip moisture from the skin and cause irritation. Instead, opt for alcohol-free hydrating mists or toners with soothing ingredients like rose water or chamomile extract.

Best Skincare Routine for Dry Winter Skin

Morning Routine

1. Hydrating Cleanser – Removes impurities without stripping moisture.

2. Antioxidant Serum – Vitamin C or niacinamide helps protect against environmental stressors.

3. Rich Moisturizer – Seals in hydration with ceramides and fatty acids.

4. SPF 30+ Sunscreen – Winter UV exposure can still contribute to dryness, premature aging, and pigmentation.

Evening Routine

1. Gentle Cleanser – Removes makeup and buildup without over-drying.

2. Hydrating Serum – Hyaluronic acid or polyglutamic acid for deep hydration.

3. Barrier-Repairing Moisturizer or Facial Oil – Strengthens the skin’s protective barrier.

Hydrate and Restore with Expert-Led Skincare Solutions

Dry winter skin requires targeted hydration, barrier repair, and professional guidance. At Skin to Heart, our expert-led consultations help you create a skincare plan that protects against moisture loss while addressing dryness, sensitivity, and irritation.

Whether you need a hydration-boosting facial or barrier-repairing treatment, we offer science-backed solutions for healthy, glowing skin all winter long.

Book a consultation today and let us help you achieve radiant, well-nourished skin—even in the harshest winter conditions!

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Skin in Winter

Why does my skin get flaky and itchy in winter?

Cold air and low humidity strip natural moisture from the skin, leading to a weakened skin barrier, which can cause flakiness, itching, irritation, and sometimes, even seasonal eczema.  

Should I change my skincare routine in winter?

Yes, winter calls for richer moisturizers, gentler cleansers, and added hydration layers to combat increased dryness.

What ingredients should I look for in winter skincare products?

• Hyaluronic Acid – Binds moisture to the skin.

• Ceramides – Strengthen the skin barrier.

• Squalane & Jojoba Oil – Mimic the skin’s natural oils.

• Glycerin – Hydrates and softens the skin.

Can hot showers make dry skin worse?

Yes, hot water strips away natural oils, worsening dryness and irritation. Lukewarm water is best for winter showers.

How often should I exfoliate in winter?

Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week with mild acids like lactic acid to prevent over-drying.

Can drinking more water prevent dry skin?

Hydration from within is beneficial, but external moisturization is still necessary to combat winter dryness effectively.

Are there any diet changes that help with winter dry skin?

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants supports skin hydration and elasticity.