As the temperatures drop and the air becomes drier, your skin may start to feel dry, itchy, and dull. To keep your skin healthy and glowing all winter long, it’s important to adjust your skincare routine to meet the changing needs of your skin.

Here are some top winter skin care tips to help you hydrate and nourish your skin for a glowing complexion.

1. Hydrate from the Inside Out

Drinking plenty of water is important all year round, but it’s particularly important during the winter months when the air is dry and moisture is easily lost from your skin.

Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

2. Use a Humidifier

Adding moisture to the air inside your home can help to prevent your skin from becoming dry and itchy. Use a humidifier in your bedroom and other rooms where you spend time to help keep the air moist and your skin hydrated.

3. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser

Cleansing is an important part of any skincare routine, but using a harsh cleanser can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause it to become even more dry and irritated.

Switch to a gentle cleanser that is designed for sensitive skin or that contains moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or ceramides.

4. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliating your skin can help to slough off dead skin cells and improve your skin’s natural radiance. However, it’s important to be gentle when exfoliating, especially during the winter months when your skin is more delicate.

Use a gentle exfoliating scrub once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, more radiant skin.

5. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

One of the most important steps in any winter skincare routine is moisturizing. Look for a rich, emollient moisturizer that contains nourishing ingredients like shea butter or jojoba oil.

Apply your moisturizer immediately after showering or bathing to help lock in moisture and keep your skin soft and supple.

6. Don’t Forget the Sunscreen

Sunscreen isn’t just for sunny days at the beach. Even during the winter months, UV radiation from the sun can damage your skin and cause premature aging.

Be sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even when it’s cloudy outside.

7. Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet

Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help to nourish your skin from the inside out. Focus on eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats like those found in nuts and avocados.

Foods that are high in vitamin C, like citrus fruits and leafy greens, can also help to improve your skin’s natural glow.

8. Be Gentle with Your Skin

During the winter months, your skin is more delicate and prone to irritation. Be gentle when washing your face, using a soft washcloth or your fingertips instead of a rough scrubber.

Avoid using hot water, which can strip your skin of its natural oils, and instead opt for warm or lukewarm water.

9. Bundle Up

When you’re outside in the cold, be sure to protect your skin by wearing gloves, a hat, and a scarf. These can help to prevent your skin from becoming dry and cracked, especially on your hands and lips.

10. Visit a Skincare Professional

If you’re struggling with dry, dull skin despite following these tips, consider visiting a skincare professional like an esthetician or dermatologist.

They can assess your skin type and recommend a customized skincare routine that meets your specific needs.

By following these top winter skin care tips, you can help keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing all winter long.