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Winter Skin Care Tips
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Education
Winter Skin Care Tips
Medically reviewed by Aimee Paik, MD
Written by Annie Lam
Last updated 10/5/2024
Does your skin change with the weather? With the colder months among us, many people start to experience dryness and flakiness from the dry air, wind, and heater. If you're dealing with dry skin during these winter months, here are our top winter skin care tips to combat dry skin.
What causes dry skin in the winter months?
Wondering why your skin gets extra dry as it gets colder? A lot of it comes with the change of weather. There's a lot more wind, cold weather, and increased use of heaters, all of which can cause dryness and dehydration over time. In fact, cold air is less able to hold moisture, so it will be less humid (which can lead to dry or dehydrated skin).
Your environment can play a big role in how your skin feels! If you have an inflammatory skin condition like rosacea, you may notice increased flareups with the increased use of heaters indoors.
Top Winter Skin Care Tips
Now that you know why your skin can change during the winter months, let's talk about our top winter skincare tips for combatting dry skin.
☁️ Try a richer moisturizer
Even if you typically have a more oily skin type, you may want to opt for a richer moisturizer during these colder months. Your skin needs to replenish its moisture, so using a richer moisturizer can help! Opt for a formula with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to hydrate dry winter skin. Bonus points for a ceramide-rich moisturizer or a formula with niacinamide to keep your skin barrier strong.
💦 Be extra generous with your moisturizer
Besides potentially switching to a richer option, don't be afraid to slather on that moisturizer! If you love to take a hot shower, the hot water can lead to moisture loss. Make sure you're applying enough moisturizer to replenish the hydration and moisture in your skin. Using topical treatments like tretinoin can make your skin more dry, so be sure to keep it well-hydrated!
☀️ Don't forget your sunscreen!
The UV index can be high regardless of the weather, so be sure to keep your skin protected from UV rays. Sunscreen is a crucial part of your skincare routine - rain or shine. It protects your skin from sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. If you're experiencing dryness, opt for a moisturizing sunscreen with hydrating and soothing ingredients.
❄️ Keep your lips nourished
Many people experience dry, chapped lips due to the winter weather. You can opt for a nourishing lip balm or a healing ointment to help nourish and heal your chapped lip. Many people think they need to exfoliate the dead skin cells off their lips, but this can actually cause more irritation. Keep them nourished instead!
😌 You don't have to change your whole skincare routine
A lot of people think that you need a dedicated winter skin care routine when the winter season rolls around. However, consistency is key to healthy skin! You don't need to change your entire routine - a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF is all you need year round. As mentioned earlier, you can consider switching to a richer moisturizer if you're really dry, but it's not a necessity if your skin still feels balanced.
Dealing with other skin concerns during these winter months?
If you're looking to treat acne, signs of aging, or rosacea, we've got you. At Apostrophe, we provide access to expert treatment for your skin concerns. To get started, you'll fill out an online consultation, receive a customized treatment plan crafted by an expert derm team (if prescribed), and you can get your treatments delivered directly to your door. No braving the cold outdoors to get your skin treatment. If you want to get glowing skin this new year, get started on your skin journey today!
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