How to Keep Your Skin Hydrated During the Winter Months

During the winter months, the cold, dry air can take a toll on your skin – perhaps more than you realise. The lower humidity levels and harsh winds can leave your skin feeling dry, tight, and even irritation. However, hydrated, glowing skin is still achieving during the winter!  

With a few simple changes to your skincare routine and lifestyle, you can combat the drying effects of winter and keep yur skin hydrated all season long. Here’s how!  

1. Switch to a Richer Moisturiser

When the weather is colder, your lightweight summer moisturiser might not be enough to keep your skin hydrated. The key is to opt for a richer, thicker moisturiser that helps lock in moisture. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which are known for their hydrating properties. These ingredients work by attracting water to the skin and creating a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss.  

Tip: Consider using an overnight hydrating mask or a heavier cream at night for extra hydration while you sleep.  

2. Drink Plenty of Water (Yes, Even in Winter!)

It’s easy to forget to stay hydrated in winter when it’s cold outside, but your skin still needs water to stay plump and healthy. Drinking water throughout the day ensures that your skin remains properly hydrated from the inside out.

Tip: If you find it hard to drink water in winter, try herbal teas or warm water with lemon to stay hydrated without the chill.

3. Avoid Hot Showers  

Hot showers might feel comforting in the winter, but they can actually strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and dehydrated. Instead, opt for lukewarm water and keep your showers brief to avoid drying out your skin. Afterward, gently pat your skin dry with a towel to avoid irritation and immediately follow up with a moisturiser to lock in moisture.  

Tip: Consider using a body oil after your shower to seal in moisture.

4. Use a Humidifier  

Indoor heating systems that help to keep us warm in winter also tend to dry out the air in our homes, contributing to skin dehydration. To combat this, consider using a humidifier in your bedroom or living areas. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air, helping to keep your skin hydrated while you sleep or go about your day.

Tip: Position the humidifier near your bed to create a soothing, skin-friendly environment overnight.

5. Exfoliate Gently (But Don’t Overdo It)

Exfoliating is essential for removing dead skills, which can build up in the winter and prevent your moisturiser from absorbing properly. However, it’s important to be gentle and not over-exfoliate, as doing so can irritate and dry out your skin further. Use a mild exfoliant once or twice a week to keep your skin smooth and help your moisturiser penetrate deeply.

Tip: Look for exfoliators with mild ingredients like lactic acid or enzyme-based exfoliants that won’t irritate dry skin.  

6. Protect Your Skin from the Elements

Cold winds and extreme weather conditions can severely dry out your skin, so it’s important it protect it. Make sure to wear a scarf or face mask to shield your face from the cold and wind. And don't forget sunscreen! Even in winter, UV rays can damage your skin and contribute to moisture loss, so be sure to apply SPF 30 or higher daily.  

Tip: Use a nourishing lip balm to protect your lips from cracking in the dry, cold air.  

Conclusion  

Keeping your skin hydrated in the winter may require a bit of extra effort, but it’s worth it! By following the winter skincare tips above, you can enjoy soft, healthy, and hydrated skin throughout the colder months.  

Struggling with dry skin? Get in touch with the MiQuest experts for personalised skincare advice designed to help you achieve your best skin yet.