7 Ways to Winterize Your Skin-Care Routine

You’ve adjusted your wardrobe for colder temperatures, but have you updated your skin-care regimen? Cool, crisp days can make your skin feel parched and scaly. And it’s no wonder: “There’s less moisture in the air to give your skin ambient hydration,” says Jody Levine, MD, a New York City–based dermatologist and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center. “That’s why it’s time to change your approach and think about how to protect your skin from harsh outdoor elements like the wind and chilly air.”

You might be wondering: How can I keep my skin moisturized during winter? It may seem like the obvious solution is to simply slather on more moisturizer. But when switching your skin-care products for colder weather, it’s important to consider your skin type.

Whether you’ve got dry, oily, or combination skin or a skin condition like psoriasis, here’s how to winterize your routine and keep your skin healthy and radiant all season long.

1. Use Sea Buckthorn Oil to Combat Dry Skin

Dealing with dry skin that gets even drier in the winter? After washing your face (ideally with a soap-free cleanser or micellar water), apply a thin coat of an antioxidant-rich serum and allow it to soak in for several minutes, suggests Dr. Levine. Then apply a creamy moisturizer to help lock in hydration.

You can also put a drop of rose, marula, or sea buckthorn oil directly onto the skin or add it to your face cream for even more moisture, suggests Francesca Fusco, MD, a New York City–based dermatologist who’s also an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center.

2. Use Hyaluronic Acid Serum to Hydrate Oily Skin

“Even oily skin needs moisture,” says Levine. The trick to hydrating an oily complexion is to first apply a toner containing salicylic acid, which will help dry up excess oil. Next, use an oil-free moisturizer or a gel-based or serum moisturizer.

“Look for those containing ingredients such as glycerin, D-glucuronic acid, aloe barbadensis leaf extract, L-limonene, and sodium PCA,” says Dr. Fusco, as they provide moisture without the heaviness of oils.

3. Try a Combination Strategy for Combination Skin

On the other hand, skin that’s both dry and oily can be tricky to manage. To hydrate combination skin, you’ve got to be strategic. “Try using a toning pad with glycolic and salicylic acid that you can apply to just your oily T-zone areas,” says Levine. Then follow up with a lotion-based moisturizer on your cheeks and neck, suggests Fusco.

4. Use Ceramides for Skin Conditions Like Psoriasis, Eczema, and Rosacea

People with psoriasis may experience dry, flaking skin, especially along their scalp line or in their T-zone, says Levine. If this is the case, “look for moisturizers that are soothing and calming,” she says. “Those with ceramides can provide extra hydration, while hydrocortisone can be helpful in areas of inflammation.”

For eczema-prone skin, Levine recommends a thick moisturizer, either a ceramide-based cream or an ointment like Aquaphor or Vaseline. And be sure to avoid anything with harsh chemicals or fragrances.

People with rosacea should look for products with anti-inflammatory agents. “Green tea creams are especially good for rosacea,” says Levine.

5. Swap Long, Hot Showers for Short, Lukewarm Ones

Hot showers can seem enticing during cold weather, but they’re not great for your skin, notes Bruce Brod, MD, a clinical professor of dermatology at the Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania.

“Many people enjoy long, hot showers during the winter months because they’re comforting and help warm up chilly bathrooms,” Brod says. “However, hot water can actually make things worse by removing the skin’s natural oils, which are essential for maintaining hydration. This effect is especially noticeable on areas like the lower legs, which are more prone to dryness.”

6. Monitor Indoor Humidity

Similar to hot showers, indoor heating is a double-edged sword where cold-weather comfort is concerned, Brod says.

“Indoor heating systems, while keeping us warm, tend to dry out the air in our homes and workplace. This lack of humidity can strip moisture from our skin, leaving it dry and irritated, and can worsen common skin conditions like eczema, dandruff, and general skin irritation,” he says. “Try to keep your home comfortably warm without overheating, and monitor humidity levels to prevent the air from becoming too dry.”

7. Layer Up

Dressing in layers isn’t just practical, it can help you save your skin. Brod particularly recommends layering to avoid wearing coarse fabrics like wool directly against the skin because this can cause itching and irritation.

The Takeaway

• Cooler weather means drier air, which can dry out your skin.
• Knowing your skin type is key to adapting your skin-care routine to the colder months.
• Avoid products with harsh chemicals or fragrances, particularly if you have a skin condition.