Winter Skincare for Dry, Cold-Weather Skin: Face and Body

Short answer: winter skin gets dry because cold outdoor air holds little moisture and indoor heating dries the air further. Cleanse more gently, moisturise while skin is still damp, seal it with a few drops of oil, and keep wearing sunscreen.

Why skin gets drier in winter

Your skin's outer layer works like a wall that holds water in. In winter that wall is under pressure from both sides: cold, dry air outdoors and warm, dry air from radiators indoors. Water evaporates from the skin faster, and you may notice tightness, flaking, rough patches on shins and elbows, or makeup that clings to dry spots.

Long hot showers and strong cleansers make it worse, because they strip away the oils that help the skin hold water.

A simple winter routine for your face

1. Cleanse gently. Use a mild, non-foaming cleanser and lukewarm water. In the morning, a splash of water may be enough.
2. Hydrate while damp. Apply moisturiser within a minute of washing, while the skin is still slightly wet.
3. Seal with oil. Press 2 to 4 drops of face oil over your moisturiser. Oils help slow down water loss.
4. Keep wearing SPF. UV rays still reach your skin on cloudy days, and snow reflects sunlight.
5. Go easy on strong actives. If your skin is stinging or flaking, cut back on exfoliating acids and retinoids for a while.

Don't forget your body

Arms, legs, neck and chest often get drier than the face, yet they get far less care. After showering, pat skin almost dry and smooth a body oil or lotion over it straight away. Pay extra attention to shins, elbows, knees and the backs of your hands.

Small habits that help

• Keep showers short and warm rather than hot.
• Run a humidifier in the bedroom if your heating dries the air.
• Wear gloves and a scarf outside to protect hands and the neck.
• Drink enough water, though moisturising the skin directly makes the bigger difference.

Where a bakuchiol oil fits in

Winter is a good time to switch from harsher actives to a gentler one. Bakuchiol is a plant-based alternative to retinol that is generally well tolerated, and in an oil it does double duty: it supports your routine for fine lines and uneven tone while helping to seal in moisture.

Our Zenuva Bakuchiol Oil Serum works on the face, neck and body, and absorbs in about 90 seconds. Read bakuchiol vs retinol to see how the two compare, or browse all face and body oils.

If dryness comes with cracking, bleeding, intense itching or a rash that won't settle, see a doctor or pharmacist. This article is general information, not medical advice.