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10 Winter Skin Rules An Expert Lives By
Make Seasonal Changes
“Winter leaves my skin feeling drier and more absorbent, so I adjust my routine to suit. I swap foaming cleansers for creamy ones and choose richer moisturisers with nourishing ingredients. Adding a hyaluronic acid serum between my treatment serum and moisturiser provides an extra hydration boost. If my skin feels sensitive or irritated, I press pause on using active ingredients like retinol and opt for gentle, fragrance-free formulas until it settles.”
Prioritise Barrier-Repairing Ingredients
“The key step in any winter skincare is barrier repair. I always look for three essential components: humectants to draw moisture in (like hyaluronic acid), emollients to soften the skin (like shea butter and plant oils) and occlusives to lock everything in (like beeswax and squalane). These ingredients work together to combat dryness, irritation and even conditions like eczema.”
Don’t Skip SPF Even In Winter
“SPF is just as important in winter as it is in summer. Bright, crisp mornings and reflective snow intensify UV exposure. A good SPF compact, like the Skin Better Science Tone Smart, will keep your skin protected every day.”
Use Gentle Exfoliation To Keep Your Skin Glowing
“Exfoliation is vital year-round, but winter calls for a gentler touch. Look for exfoliants that contain polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) or lactic acid, which hydrate while also getting rid of dead skin cells. Regular exfoliation prevents blockages from heavier products. I’m a fan of the Exuviance Hydrasoothe PHA toner and the Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Gentle Peel pads.”
Invest In Hydration-Focused Treatments
“Winter is not the time for harsh peels. If your skin barrier is impaired, it’s best to scale down the treatment strength. Instead, consult a professional for a more tailored approach, or opt for hydrating facials and soothing masks. My go-to is the Medik8 Ultimate Bio-Cellulose Mask, which can be chilled for extra de-puffing benefits.”
Look After Your Lips & Hands
“Lips and hands often get overlooked but need just as much care at this time of year. I recommend exfoliating your lips with a scrub like the Fresh Sugar Lip Polish and using an overnight mask for hydration. For hands, keep a nourishing hand cream nearby – my favourites include L’Occitane’s Shea Butter Hand Cream and IS Clinical’s Sheald balm.”
Stick To Simple Evening Routines
“While it’s tempting to layer on products at night, I’d advise against it. Avoid overloading your skin, as it needs to breathe. I always find that clients who use too many products and sleep with their faces against a pillow often see more breakouts. A good eye cream and balm are more than enough.”
Choose Winter-Specific Swaps
“If your skin stings or looks red after applying products, it’s time to stop. I recommend trading lighter moisturisers for richer ones and focusing on formulas that contain ceramides to repair and strengthen the skin barrier. Affordable options like CeraVe’s Advanced Repair Ointment or The Inkey List’s Oat Cleansing Balm are great choices.”
Don’t Overlook Body Care
“For the body, my personal winter must-haves include Jo Malone London’s bath oils and the Lancôme Nutrix moisturiser. Avoid taking long, super-hot baths if you have dry skin, as it can exacerbate the problem. Apply moisturisers to damp skin to lock in hydration.”
Find Time For Rituals That Boost Circulation
“I swear by ice globes for depuffing in the mornings and quick massages to boost circulation and lymphatic drainage. Even a five-minute face massage can improve blood flow.”
Key Products To Add To Your Winter Routine
- Epionce Intensive Nourishing Cream: this is full of azelaic acid to tackle redness and uneven texture.
- iS Clinical sheald Balm: it’s perfect for dry, cracked skin or eczema.
- 111SKIN Eye Patches: great at reducing puffiness before a night out.
- La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Levres Balm: I keep one everywhere for soft, hydrated lips.
- Medik8 R-Retinoate Intensive: this is a gentler active for those with sensitive skin.
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