6 winter skin solutions

It’s not just the boots and layers on high rotation when it gets cold. Lip balm, hand cream and moisturiser are also in demand as winter rolls around.

Chilly winds and low humidity in the cooler months are a recipe for dry, dull, cracked or flaky skin.

And while winter rituals like rugging up by the fire, cranking the heater and taking a hot shower might warm your bones, they can also make your skin dry, dehydrated or both.

Happily, there are ways to protect and nourish your skin in winter.

Winter air tends to be dry, which can make your skin dehydrated. It might look red and feel tight and uncomfortable even after moisturising.

One way to combat this is by drinking plenty of water. It’s great for your overall health and your skin.¹

For extra hydration, add a serum with hyaluronic acid or a ceramide-rich moisturiser to your skincare routine.

And if the dry air is really getting you down, a humidifier in your living or sleeping spaces can help (but be sure to always read the instructions and follow the safety rules).

If your skin is feeling dry it may be lacking oil. Look for a gentle, oil-rich cleanser that won't strip away your skin's natural oils. Harsh cleansers can make dryness and irritation worse in winter.

Exfoliating regularly can help remove dead skin cells, but if your skin is dry and/or dehydrated, avoid physical scrubs. Instead, try a chemical exfoliant with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA’s)² or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs)³ that help remove dead skin cells.

It goes without saying really, but moisturising is key in winter, just like the rest of the year. It helps lock in hydration and protect your skin's natural moisture barrier.

Adding a face oil, particularly in the evening, can also help soothe dry skin.

And don’t stop at your face. After you jump out of the shower, take a few minutes to massage your favourite body lotion or oil into the rest of your body.

It’s important to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF30+ every day, and especially on days when the UV Index is predicted to be 3 or above, which is the case right through the winter months in many parts of Australia.⁴

When it’s cold and cloudy, sunscreen may not be front of mind. But UVA rays can penetrate through clouds and glass and can cause sun damage when you least expect it (including in the car or through the window while you’re inside). Sunscreen is the most important skin care product to own.

There’s nothing like a long, hot shower in winter, but unfortunately scalding showers can strip away the natural oils from your skin, leaving it dry and irritated.

Try to keep your shower short and the temperature lukewarm. It might not warm the bones, but your skin will thank you for it.

Your lips are likely the first place to feel the effect of winter winds, so don’t leave home without your lip balm. Bonus points for using one with added sunscreen when you’re out and about.

If your lips are cracked, try making your own lip exfoliator by mixing a teaspoon of sugar or sea salt with a teaspoon of oil or honey.

For dry hands, invest in a good pair of gloves for when you’re out in the elements and keep a thick, moisturising hand cream handy.

Nourishing your skin in winter may take a little more time and effort, but it can also be a nice self-care ritual. Enjoy cosy nights in and embrace the elements armed with the right lotions and potions to keep your skin in shape.