7 Winter Skin Care Tips for the Changing Season Ahead (Updated for 2024)

As the season begins to shift to colder temperatures, it’s important to adopt a good winter skin care routine too. Many people start to experience additional dryness, breakouts and skin damage that they don’t have to worry about in the summertime. 

Whether you’re looking to stay prepared or you’re already experiencing some of the impacts of the wintertime on your skin, there are a few things you can do to make sure you still glow to the heavens — even through the snow and wind.

From the moisture levels in your skin to frequent breakouts, changing seasons can do a number on your skin. Of course, different people have different skin concerns, and that means you may need to try out a variety of solutions before you find the right one for you. 

Top Winter Skin Care Tips

Whether you come to rely on a few of these tips or you find that one of them particularly transforms your routine, you can make sure your skin stays beautiful all year long. Here are some tips for your winter skin care routine.

1. Moisturize Daily

All skin types should practice daily moisturizing, as it hydrates your skin with the moisture it needs to retain water and prevent transepidermal water loss. If you have oily skin, this can stop the overproduction of oils, whereas if you have dry skin, it can moisturize and protect against skin damage. 

You may even want to get a thicker moisturizer to use throughout the winter — especially at night if you happen to use different moisturizers in the morning and evening. Cream moisturizer is emollient, which is ideal for preventing dryness and itchiness. Apply it to your face, neck, body, feet and more.

Have a hydrating winter skin care routine to accommodate these changes. You can also try out slugging. Petroleum jelly can help you lock in moisture and prevent skin damage. You only need a small amount for a thin layer after your face wash and moisturizer. 

2. Don’t Skip the Sunscreen

The sun has gone away, so that means there’s no need for SPF anymore, right? Well, wrong. No matter what the sky might look like, you are exposed to the sun’s rays when you’re outside. SPF should always be the last step in your morning skin care routine. 

Even when it’s snowing outside, the snow can reflect the sun’s rays up to 80% and even increase your risk of sun damage. By exposing your skin to damage, you might be opening yourself up to sensitivity and breakouts. Make sure you aren’t skipping out on the sunscreen!

3. Avoid Alcohol and Fragrances

While it’s best to avoid alcohol and fragrances — both artificial and natural — in facial products is the best choice year round, it can be especially important during the colder months. These ingredients can be especially irritating and drying to your skin in the long run. 

Make sure you read the ingredients on products before you buy them, and if you have any products from warmer months with harsh ingredients, consider switching them out for natural-scented lotions or creams instead. You can also make your own body butter at home with winter skin care homemade tips. 

4. Don’t Forget the Lips

Make sure your skin care for cold weather also cares for your lips, as they are a part of your face just like any other! One of the chief complaints about skin concerns in the winter is the chapped lips and dryness that the cold can bring. Try to have a chapstick handy or use petroleum jelly before you go to sleep each night — that way, you can be ready to pucker up wherever you find yourself beneath the mistletoe!

5. Drink Lots of Water

Curating a skin care routine for dry skin, or any skin type, should go beyond products. Hydrating your skin can work from the inside out as well as from the outside in. Try to make sure you’re drinking enough water daily — even with all that hot cocoa or tea you’re likely hugging for warmth this season.

6. Invest In a Humidifier

Okay, you’re likely a little tired of hearing about how drying the winter season can be for the skin. If you’re looking to really moisturize your skin this winter, try investing in a humidifier. While you can invest in a face steamer or other fancy products, a standard room humidifier will often do the trick just fine. The moisture can even help your hair during the winter months, too!

7. Book Your Professional Treatments

If you plan to invest in a professional treatment, the winter is the time to do it. For example, Laser hair removal is great for removing body hair quickly and painlessly. It’s recommended to avoid sun exposure around six weeks before and after the treatment, so there’s no better time when you’re staying in during the colder seasons. Dermaplaning, peels and facials can also help you get that glow even under the grey, cloudy skies!

Best Product Recommendations

With the ideal winter skin care routine in hand, all that’s left is to pick up the best products. Here are a few recommendations to add to your cart. 

1. Cetaphil Face & Body Moisturizer

The Cetaphil Face & Body Moisturizer has a creamy formula that hydrates and moisturizes even very dry and sensitive skin. It can restore your skin barrier within a week, protecting your complexion. It’s also fragrance-free and non-greasy, ideal for those who want a light formula. 

$12.69 on Amazon

2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 100

There are plenty of options for winter sunscreen, but La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 100 is a great candidate. It’s also fragrance-free, but the main appeal comes from its fast-absorbing and non-whitening texture. 

$26.99 on Amazon

3. Native Body Lotion

The Native Body Lotion is a great way to moisturize your whole body. It contains naturally derived plant-based ingredients with natural scents like Sea Salt and Cedar or Coconut and Vanilla. Skip the perfume and smell great with this product on your vanity. 

$13.97 on Amazon

4. Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

The Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask is a cult classic for many people, no matter what season it is. It contains plenty of murumuru and shea butter, which can help eliminate flaky and dry lips. While commonly used at night, it’s great during daytime use as well. 

$24 on Amazon

Try Out These Winter Skin Care Hacks

Everyone’s skin is different, but it’s safe to say that everybody could use a little assistance and nourishment during the winter. Whether you struggle with breakouts, dryness or chapped lips, there are many ways to stay on top of your winter skin care routine.

Originally Published 10/6/2021 – Updated 11/20/2024