How To Keep Skin Glowing In Winter: An Effective Guide
Taking care of your skin is essential all year round, but as the seasons change, your skincare routine needs to adapt too. The cold winter months bring unique challenges for your skin, including changes in temperature, low humidity, and exposure to harsh winds. It’s not uncommon for your skin to feel dry and lose its glow during this time. That’s why I’ve put together this guide on how to keep skin glowing in winter to help you maintain a healthy, radiant complexion, no matter how chilly it gets.
How To Keep Skin Glowing In Winter
Understanding why your skin becomes dry in winter is the first step to finding the right solutions. Winter brings specific environmental and lifestyle factors that disrupt your skin’s natural balance, but don’t worry—this post is packed with tips and tricks to help your skin stay healthy and glowing in winter.
Why Does Skin Become Dry In Winter?
Winter is notorious for wreaking havoc on the skin, leaving it feeling dry, tight, and flaky. Here’s why:
- Dry Winter Air: During the winter months, the air holds less moisture. Indoor heating also contributes to dryness, stripping your skin of its natural oil barrier. This makes it harder for your skin to retain moisture.
- Cold Weather: Harsh winds and cold weather can deplete your skin’s hydration, leading to irritation and cracks, especially for those with sensitive skin.
- Long Hot Showers: While tempting, hot water from showers or baths can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it drier than ever.
- UV Rays: Even though winter days are darker, sun exposure can still damage your skin. UV damage breaks down collagen, which impacts your skin’s glow.
Recognizing these factors allows you to take proactive steps to protect your skin during winter and keep it radiant.
How To Get Glowing Skin In Winter
Now that we know the culprits behind dry skin, let’s dive into specific ways to keep your skin healthy and glowing in winter.
1. Moisturize Regularly
A good moisturizer is your best friend in winter. Opt for a rich, hydrating cream that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides, which help to protect your skin and lock in moisture. Apply immediately after washing your face or showering to trap hydration.
2. Stay Hydrated
Don’t forget to drink plenty of water, even when it’s cold outside. Hydrating from within helps your skin stay plump and radiant. If you struggle to drink plain water, herbal teas can be a cozy alternative during the cold winter months.
3. Avoid Long Hot Showers
Though they feel amazing on chilly winter days, long hot showers can strip your skin of its protective oils. Instead, stick to lukewarm water for showers or baths, and always moisturize immediately afterward to keep your skin hydrated.
4. Use a Humidifier
Combat the drying effects of indoor heating by using a humidifier in your bedroom or living room. This adds moisture back into the air, preventing the dry winter air from sapping hydration from your skin. This one is only $30!
5. Exfoliate Gently
Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells that dull your complexion. However, be gentle—harsh scrubs can irritate sensitive skin. Use a mild exfoliator once or twice a week to reveal smoother, brighter skin.
6. Apply A Mineral Sunscreen
Many people neglect sunscreen during the winter, but UV rays are still present, even on cloudy winter days. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to shield your skin from sun exposure and prevent premature aging.
Mineral sunscreen is best for your skin because it provides gentle, broad-spectrum protection by sitting on the surface and reflecting harmful UV rays, making it ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin. It’s free from harsh chemicals, less likely to cause irritation, and often safer for both your skin and the environment.
Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen & CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen are my go-tos.
7. Don’t Forget Your Lips
Your lips are especially prone to dryness in the cold weather, so keep a nourishing lip balm on hand at all times. Look for ingredients like shea butter or beeswax to keep them soft and hydrated. My favorite is Aquaphor Lip Repair. It’s packed with soothing ingredients like shea butter, chamomile, and vitamins C and E to restore cracked, dry lips and lock in moisture. For an all-natural option, Lanolin-based balms like Lanolips 101 Ointment are excellent for deeply healing and hydrating damaged lips.
8. Add a Hydrating Mask to Your Routine
For an extra boost, use a hydrating mask once or twice a week. Look for formulas with aloe vera or honey to replenish your skin and soothe irritation.
For more winter-specific skincare advice, don’t miss my guide on creating a skincare routine for your 30s here.
Final Thoughts
Winter may be tough on your skin, but with the right care and adjustments to your routine, you can keep your skin healthy and glowing in winter. From moisturizing regularly and staying hydrated to protecting yourself from UV rays, these tips ensure your skin looks its best throughout the season.
Remember, small changes like avoiding long hot showers and using a humidifier can make a big difference. Embrace these habits, and enjoy the radiant glow that will last all winter long!
