6-Step Winter Skincare Routine For Hydrated and Healthy Skin

Girl blowing Snow - Winter Skincare Routine

Are you ready to tackle the winter blues and keep your skin glowing? We all know how the cold, harsh winter weather can wreak havoc on our skin, leaving it dry, flaky, and irritated. In this guide, we'll explore the best skincare brands to help you conquer the winter season and keep your skin looking healthy and radiant. Get ready to enhance your beauty by using different beauty tips that will leave you feeling confident and beautiful all winter.

Looking to enhance your beauty by using different beauty tips this winter? Consider GlowUp's solution, the Glowup App, to help you achieve your skincare goals. With its user-friendly interface and professional recommendations, you'll be on your way to radiant, glowing skin in no time.

Table Of Contents

What Causes Dry Skin In Winter

Dry Soil -Winter Skincare Routine

Winter is notorious for wreaking havoc on our skin, leaving it dry, flaky, and irritated. But why does this happen? Well, let's break it down. The outermost layer of our skin, the epidermis, has a thin protective layer called the stratum corneum, which we all know as the skin barrier. 

This barrier comprises a combination of lipids and dying or dead skin cells, forming a shield against harmful toxins from entering our bodies. When this skin barrier gets damaged, our skin shows dryness and irritation. 

Research has shown that our skin has less moisture during winter than in summer. Additionally, there are fewer lipids in the skin barrier during the winter, contributing to dryness and irritation. As if that wasn't enough, indoor heating during the winter can reduce humidity levels, affecting the amount of moisture available to our skin. On top of that, the harsh outdoor weather conditions, including cold winds and rain, can strip our skin of its natural oils, leaving it even drier. 

Taking hot baths or showers may seem like a cozy way to warm up during winter, but they can damage the surface of our skin, leading to dryness. Using harsh soaps or rubbing our skin too vigorously when drying off can also damage the skin. The moisture level in our skin can vary depending on factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, and environmental conditions. Certain medical conditions can also cause dry skin during winter. So, protecting our skin during winter is essential to keep it healthy, hydrated, and glowing.

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What To Apply On Face During Winter?

Girl applying Product on Face- Winter Skincare Routine

1. Moisturize Daily

Petroleum or cream-based moisturizers are ideal for normal to dry skin, especially in winter. Opt for fragrance-free options if you have sensitive skin. Apply moisturizer on damp skin post-bathing to lock in surface moisture.

2. Cleansing

Avoid excessive cleansing to prevent stripping the skin's natural oils. Wash your face, hands, feet, and skin folds once daily. While you can rinse the rest of your body each day, using soap is unnecessary.

3. Limit Hot Water and Soap

Combat "winter itch" by taking quick, lukewarm baths or showers using gentle, non-detergent cleansers. Apply a thick moisturizer immediately after, gently patting your skin dry.

4. Humidify

Combat dry air using room humidifiers, following the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and changing water to prevent mold growth.

5. Protect from the Wind

Shield your face and apply petroleum-based lip balm. Opt for skin protectants containing petroleum or ceramides for better defense against the elements.

6. Avoid Extreme Cold

Cold temperatures can lead to skin disorders or frostbite. Seek medical help if you notice color changes, pain, or ulceration in your hands or feet due to extreme cold.

7. Sun Protection

Even in winter, protect your skin from the sun with SPF 15+ sunscreen if you're outdoors. Overexposure can lead to premature aging and skin cancer.

8. Avoid Tanning

Skip tanning beds and sun lamps that can harm your skin and increase cancer risk. Use self-tanners with extra moisturizer to maintain a summer glow.

9. Vitamin D Supplements

Since winter reduces natural vitamin D production, consider taking supplements year-round to meet your daily requirements.

10. Consult a Dermatologist

If you face persistent dryness, itching, rashes, or concerning skin issues, seek advice from a dermatologist regardless of the season.

Find Your Perfect Skincare Routine with Glowup AI's Glowup App

Glowup AI's glowup app guides you through discovering your unique beauty archetype. Analyzing facial features gives you personalized tips for enhancing your best traits. Embrace self-discovery and enhancement with the Glowup app — find your pretty in seconds! Download our App Store or Google Play app to unlock your aesthetic potential.

7-Step Winter Skincare Routine For Hydrated and Healthy Skin

Girl with Closed Eyes - Winter Skincare Routine

1. Use GlowUp AI

Glowup AI's glowup app helps you find how pretty you are and your archetype. Here’s how Glowup works: 

1) Upload your photos, 

2) Glowup AI will analyze your facial features, 

3) Learn about insights into your most attractive traits and get personalized tips to highlight your beauty. 

The Glowup app is your bespoke AI beauty guide, dedicated to helping you unlock your full aesthetic potential. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and enhancement with us. Find your pretty (ex., Bunny Pretty, Cat Pretty, Doe Pretty, Fox Pretty, etc.): Discover your archetype and lean in to highlight your beauty; discover your best traits: 

Learn about your most desirable and attractive features; get Personalized Tips: Enhance your appearance with detailed advice catered to you. Find your pretty in seconds with our glowup app, Glowup AI — download our free app on the App Store or Google Play.

2. Cleanse

Start your skincare routine with a gentle cleanse. During the winter, it is essential to ensure that none of your products (including your cleanser) are drying out your skin. Opt for a sulfate—and phthalate-free cleanser, as they often strip the skin of its natural, replenishing oils. Try using a cream or milk formula if you have dehydrated skin, and ensure you’re using warm (not hot!) water when washing your face—hot water irritates and dries your skin even more. 

3. Serum

Use your lightest product, like a serum, first. This will allow the skin to absorb the product and ensure no other products are blocking its penetration. Opt for a hydrating serum (such as hyaluronic acid) to draw moisture into the deeper layers of your skin. 

4. Moisturizer

Follow your serum with your face cream (moisturizer). Moisturizers have a thicker formula to create a physical barrier that locks in hydration and prevents skin from drying out. In addition, they assist the uppermost layer of the skin, helping it to retain moisture. 

5. Face Oil

And now for the magic - lock it all in with a face oil. Winter is the ideal time to add oils to your routine, whether your skin is oily or dry. It will help soothe skin, lock in hydration, and enhance the skin barrier to prevent moisture loss. Mix it with your moisturizer (morning and night) or use it as the final step for an indulgent winter skin ritual. 

6. Gua Sha Routine with Face Oil

If you have time for an extra pampering moment, use your Gua Sha to help decrease tension, reduce puffiness, and give skin a rosy appearance. Apply 3 to 4 drops of face oil l, focusing it on the areas where you intend to use the Gua Sha; it’s essential to use the face oil liberally to give the tool enough slip and avoid pulling or tugging at the skin. 

We recommend finding a Gua Sha face map that shows how to direct the strokes correctly when working on different areas of the face. You can start by lightly pressing the stone onto your jawline and gently gliding it up and out toward your hairline. Hold the tool or stone flat and connect it to the skin with light to medium pressure.

7. SPF

If this is your morning skincare routine, following up with your SPF to keep you safe from UVA and UVB rays is essential. This is also important in the winter - the sun can still be damaging even when cold!

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15 Best Winter Skincare Products For Glowing Hydrated Skin

Girl with Mask - Winter Skincare Routine

1. Dr Loretta Gentle Hydrating Cleanser

This gentle hydrating cleanser is a must-have for your winter skincare routine, especially if you have dry or combination skin. With a blend of glycerin and moisture-surging algae extract, this cleanser acts as a humectant, leaving your skin feeling soft and comfortable. Unlike many hydrating cleansers, it lathers up, providing a thorough cleanse that doesn't strip your skin of its natural oils.

2. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

CeraVe's Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a dermatologist-recommended option for those looking to hydrate their skin during winter. This affordable option contains glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and a ceramide blend to restore the skin barrier. It continuously releases hydrating ingredients over 24 hours, ensuring your skin stays moisturized throughout the day with its creamy, lotion-like texture.

3. Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Face Cleanser

Aveeno's Nourishing Oat Face Cleanser is an excellent choice for a creamier alternative to foaming cleansers. It purifies the skin without stripping away its natural oils, making it ideal for maintaining moisture during the winter.

4. Aveeno Restorative Skin Therapy Sulfate-Free Body Wash

Extend your skincare routine beyond your face with Aveeno's Body Wash. This sulfate-free option gently washes your skin, providing nourishment and moisture from head to toe, especially during the dry winter.

5. e.l.f. Pure Skin Back to Basics Mini Kit

The e.l.f. Pure Skin Back to Basics Mini Kit offers a portable solution for those on the go during the winter holidays. This kit includes a gentle cleanser, toner, and moisturizer, perfect for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy wherever you travel.

6. Vichy Mineral 89 Face Serum

Try Vichy's Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum for a hydrating serum beyond moisturizing. Rooted in science, this serum offers hydration and protection against free radicals, making it an essential part of your winter skincare routine.

7. The INKEY List Retinol Fine Lines and Wrinkles Serum

Combat fine lines and wrinkles with The INKEY List's Retinol Serum. This gentle option uses slow-release technology to deliver retinol gradually throughout the day, minimizing skin irritation, especially during the colder months.

8. Babor Refining Enzyme and Vitamin C Cleanser

Maintain proper moisture levels with Babor's Exfoliating Cleanser during the winter months. When mixed with water, this finely milled powder becomes a gentle lather, breaking down impurities with activated enzymes. Formulated with vitamin C and moringa seed extract, this cleanser provides an antioxidant boost for your skin.

9. Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex Serum

Repair and rejuvenate your skin overnight with Estee Lauder's Advanced Night Repair Serum. Using cutting-edge technology, this serum targets fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture, and dark spots and is suitable for all skin types.

10. Supergoop! Every. Single. Face Watery Lotion SPF 50

Remember SPF in your winter skincare routine with Supergoop! Every. Single. Face Watery Lotion. This lightweight, invisible lotion provides sun protection and hydration and helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, making it an essential part of your daily skincare regimen.

11. Soko Glam Rice Toner

Rebalance your skin and provide hydration with Soko Glam's Rice Toner. Harnessing rice extract's ability to retain water, this toner boosts collagen production, tightens pores, and brightens the skin. Its milky texture soothes dehydrated skin, making it ideal for the winter.

12. Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid

Target moisture retention with Rhode's Peptide Glazing Fluid serum. Formulated with marula oil and hyaluronic acid, this serum provides deep hydration, perfect for layering under a moisturizer during the colder months.

13. Cetaphil Daily Smoothing Moisturizer for Rough and Bumpy Skin

For rough and bumpy skin, try Cetaphil's Daily Smoothing Moisturizer. This gentle, lightweight formula soothes irritation, softens the skin, and contains 20% urea to boost moisture while exfoliating gently, reducing the appearance of bumps.

14. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer

Keep your skin hydrated in winter with Neutrogena's Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer. Suitable for dry, combination, and oily acne-prone skin, this moisturizer provides intense hydration and is best used as a nightly moisturizer for its hydrating effects.

15. La Mer Crème de la Mer Moisturizer

For dehydrated skin, La Mer's Crème de la Mer Moisturizer offers intense hydration to restore your skin's natural moisture balance. This cult favorite moisturizer also improves skin texture and reduces fine lines and wrinkles, making it perfect for those struggling with dry skin during the winter.

7 Essential Ingredients For Winter Skincare Routine

Mirror and Product Laying - Winter Skincare Routine

1. Hydration and Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a skincare ingredient that is perfect for the winter season. It is known for its exceptional ability to provide intense hydration to the skin. This ingredient can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, making it a fantastic choice for replenishing moisture in the skin. 

When applied topically, hyaluronic acid forms a moisture-locking barrier on the skin's surface, preventing moisture loss and promoting a plump and supple complexion. In addition to moisturizing the skin, hyaluronic acid has anti-aging benefits, promotes wound healing, reduces wrinkles, increases skin elasticity, and boosts the effectiveness of other skincare products.

2. Winter Is the Right Time for AHAs

AHAs, or alpha-hydroxy acids, are great for wintertime skincare routines. Common AHAs include glycolic acid and lactic acid. These ingredients can be found in various cosmetic products, such as facial cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and serums. 

AHAs are used to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation and to increase collagen production, resulting in firmer, more youthful-looking skin. While AHAs can increase skin sensitivity to UV light, they are safe during winter when sun exposure is generally reduced.

3. Ceramides - Your Ally Against Winter Weather

Ceramides are lipids that comprise a significant portion of our skin's outer layer. These are essential for protecting and moisturizing the skin, especially during the harsh winter. Ceramides help replenish the skin barrier and lock in moisture, preventing dryness and irritation. Natural and synthetic ceramides in skincare products can help maintain healthy skin during winter.

4. Niacinamide - Perfect for Dry Winter Skin

Niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3, strengthens the skin's moisture barrier, making it ideal for dry winter skin. This ingredient helps build keratin, a protein that maintains skin health, making the skin firmer, smoother, and brighter. Incorporating niacinamide into your skincare routine can improve overall skin health and reduce dryness during winter.

5. Retinol - Enjoy Its Full Potential in Winter

Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is known for its anti-aging effects and acne-clearing properties. While retinol can be used safely during summer with proper sun protection, winter is an excellent time to incorporate it fully into your skincare routine. Retinol can help with fine lines, wrinkles, and acne, making it a valuable addition to your winter skincare regimen.

6. Vitamin C - A Winter Essential

Vitamin C is not just for winter skincare but essential during the colder months. Vitamin C serums can deliver multiple benefits to dull and dry skin by providing hydration, reducing irritation, and creating a protective shield against dryness. Incorporating a quality vitamin C serum into your winter skincare routine can help prevent and alleviate the signs of dry skin.

7. Sunscreen - Keep It Year-Round

Sunscreen is a must-have skincare essential throughout the year, including winter. Over 90% of UV rays can penetrate light cloud cover, leading to sunburn and skin damage. To prevent premature aging, sunscreen should be applied daily, regardless of the season. SPF protection in winter can help maintain healthy skin and to avoid sun damage.

Discover Your Archetype and Find Out What Pretty You Are With Glowup AI

Glowup AI's glowup app is a transformative tool designed to help you discover and enhance your unique beauty. By simply uploading your photos, Glowup AI will analyze your facial features and provide you with insights into your most attractive traits. With this information, you can learn how to highlight your best features and receive personalized beauty tips catered specifically to you. 

The Glowup app is your bespoke AI beauty guide, dedicated to helping you unlock your full aesthetic potential. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and enhancement with Glowup AI, and find your unique version of pretty in just seconds. Download the free Glowup AI App Store or Google Play app and begin your transformation today.

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