As the temperature drops and the air becomes drier, many people struggle to keep their skin hydrated and healthy. Cold weather can cause the skin to become dry, flaky, and irritated, leading to discomfort and even long-term damage.

However, with some simple changes to your skincare routine, you can keep your skin moisturized and glowing all winter long.

1. Use a Gentle Cleanser

Harsh cleansers strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and more prone to damage. During the cold weather months, opt for a gentle cleanser that doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals or fragrances.

Look for cleansers that are labeled “hydrating” or “moisturizing” to ensure they maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

2. Avoid Hot Showers

While hot showers may feel heavenly during the cold weather, they can actually worsen dry skin. Hot water strips away the skin’s natural oils, leaving it dry and dehydrated.

Try to use lukewarm water instead and limit your shower time to avoid further dryness.

3. Moisturize Immediately After Showering

After showering, pat your skin dry with a towel and immediately apply a moisturizer to lock in the moisture. Look for moisturizers that are rich in hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides.

These ingredients help to replenish and retain moisture in the skin.

4. Invest in a Humidifier

Heating systems in winter can dry out the air in your home, leading to dry skin. To combat this, consider investing in a humidifier. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which helps to prevent your skin from becoming dry and itchy.

Place a humidifier in your bedroom or any other frequently used area to keep the air moist.

5. Drink Plenty of Water

Hydrating your skin starts from within. Make sure you drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day, even during the cold months.

Staying hydrated helps to maintain the skin’s natural moisture levels, preventing dryness and promoting a healthy complexion.

6. Protect Your Skin from Harsh Winds

Cold, windy weather can be particularly harsh on the skin. Protect your skin by covering it with a scarf or a face mask when you’re outside. This barrier will help to shield your skin from the elements and prevent moisture loss.

7. Choose the Right Fabrics

The clothes you wear can also affect the moisture levels of your skin. Avoid fabrics such as wool or synthetic materials, which can cause irritation and worsen dryness.

Opt for breathable, natural fabrics such as cotton or silk that allow your skin to breathe.

8. Exfoliate Gently

Exfoliation is essential for sloughing away dead skin cells and allowing moisturizers to penetrate better. However, during the cold weather, exfoliating too frequently or using harsh exfoliants can irritate the skin and cause dryness.

Choose a gentle exfoliator that won’t strip away too much moisture and limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.

9. Use a Overnight Moisturizing Mask

Give your skin an overnight moisture boost by applying a hydrating mask before going to bed. Overnight moisturizing masks are deeply nourishing and work to replenish the skin’s moisture levels while you sleep.

Wake up to smoother, softer, and more radiant skin in the morning.

10. Take Care of Your Lips

Our lips are particularly sensitive to cold weather and can easily become dry and chapped. Protect your lips by applying a lip balm or ointment with hydrating ingredients such as shea butter or beeswax.

Reapply as needed throughout the day, especially before heading outdoors.