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What is the best skin care routine for winter?

The best winter skin care routine is a barrier-first routine: cleanse gently, hydrate in layers, lock moisture in with a richer moisturizer, and protect daily with SPF. Cold air, indoor heat, and wind strip water from your skin faster, so our team focuses on reducing irritation while boosting hydration and lipids (the “mortar” that holds your barrier together).

Step 1: Cleanse without stripping

Use a low-foam, fragrance-free cleanser once daily (often at night). In the morning, a quick rinse or micellar water can be enough if your skin feels tight. Keep water lukewarm—hot showers can worsen dryness and redness.

Step 2: Hydrate on damp skin

Apply a humectant layer right after cleansing while skin is still slightly damp. Look for glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, and aloe. If you’re prone to stinging, choose fewer-actives formulas and skip alcohol-heavy toners.

Step 3: Seal with a barrier moisturizer

Switch to a winter-weight moisturizer featuring ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids, squalane, or shea butter. If you’re flaky around the nose or cheeks, press a thin layer in rather than rubbing, and consider adding a small amount of ointment to the most exposed areas at night.

Step 4: Use targeted treatment—carefully

Keep exfoliation minimal in winter. If you use retinoids or acids, reduce frequency and buffer with moisturizer to prevent peeling. For visible dryness, a urea or lactic-acid body lotion can smooth roughness without aggressive scrubs.

Step 5: Sunscreen still matters

Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning, including on cloudy days. Snow and wind can intensify irritation, so pick a moisturizing sunscreen that doesn’t leave your skin feeling tight.

For a simple, checklisted routine with product-type recommendations, see our complete guide: Winter Skin Care That Works: Barrier Routine Checklist.

FAQ

How do I prevent dry, cracked hands in winter?

Use a thick hand cream after every wash, then seal with a small amount of ointment at night. Wear gloves outdoors and consider switching to a gentler hand soap to reduce stripping.