Most of us notice the change as soon as the evenings get dark and the radiators come on. Skin that behaved perfectly well in September starts to feel tight after cleansing, foundation clings to dry patches and lips crack at the corners. Winter weather is only part of the story. Cold, windy air outside and warm, dry air indoors make a difficult combination, and the routine that suited you in summer may simply need a few sensible adjustments.
Why skin struggles in the colder months
Your skin barrier, the outermost layer of the skin, works a little like a wall that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Cold air holds less moisture, and central heating dries indoor air further still, so water evaporates from the skin more easily. Hot showers, wind and moving between cold streets and heated rooms all add to the strain. The result for many people is dryness, flaking, redness or a feeling that products suddenly sting. Even oily and combination skin can feel dehydrated at this time of year.
Swap to a gentler cleanser
If your face feels squeaky clean after washing, your cleanser is probably removing more than dirt and make-up. In winter, a cream, milk or gel cleanser without strong foaming agents is usually kinder. Use lukewarm rather than hot water, pat the skin dry with a soft towel and avoid rough flannels or scrubs. Many people find that a gentle cleanse in the evening and a simple splash of water in the morning is enough when skin is feeling fragile.
Richer moisture, applied at the right moment
This is the season to look again at your moisturiser. Lighter lotions that worked in summer may not be enough, and a cream with ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides or shea butter can help skin hold on to water. Apply it while the skin is still slightly damp after cleansing, which helps lock moisture in. A few drops of facial oil pressed over moisturiser at night can be comforting for very dry skin, although those prone to breakouts may prefer to skip this step.
It is also worth easing off strong exfoliating acids and retinoids if your skin is irritated. You do not have to stop them completely, but using them less often while your skin is under pressure gives the barrier a chance to recover. If you are using anything prescribed, check with whoever prescribed it before changing how you use it.
Do not forget lips, hands and sunscreen
Lips have very little natural protection, so carry a simple balm and reapply it through the day, especially before going outside. Hands take a beating from cold air and frequent washing, and a hand cream kept by the sink makes it far more likely you will actually use it. Gloves help more than you might expect. Sunscreen still matters in winter too: UV rays are weaker but still present, and they reach the skin on bright, cold days and through windows. A moisturiser with SPF can make the morning routine quicker.
Small changes around the house
Your environment plays a role as well. Keeping showers short and warm rather than hot, turning the thermostat down slightly in the bedroom and placing a bowl of water near a radiator or using a humidifier can all make indoor air less harsh. Drinking enough water and eating a varied diet with healthy fats support your skin from the inside, and our piece on foods for healthy skin has plenty of ideas.
When to get advice
Most winter dryness settles with gentler products and a bit of patience. If your skin becomes very red, itchy, cracked or sore, or if a patch does not improve, it is sensible to speak to a pharmacist, your GP or a dermatologist, as conditions such as eczema can flare in cold weather and may need more than a change of moisturiser.
Winter skincare does not need to be complicated. Think gentle cleansing, richer moisture, consistent protection and a few small habits at home. For a broader look at building a routine that works all year round, see our guide to the best skincare routine.