How to Prevent and Treat Dry Skin in the Winter

Winter can be tough on your skin. The cold air, low humidity, and constant indoor heating can all contribute to dry, flaky, and irritated skin. If you’ve noticed your skin feeling drier than usual or you’re experiencing more redness, it’s likely due to seasonal changes.

Luckily, with the right precautions and treatments, you can keep your skin hydrated and healthy throughout the winter months. This blog will uncover the causes of dry skin in the winter and explore how to both prevent and treat dry skin during the colder months.  

What Causes Dry Skin in the Winter?

As temperatures drop, the air becomes drier, leading to a loss of moisture from the skin. Indoor heating further exacerbates the problem by reducing humidity levels, which can strip the skin of its natural oils. The cold air can also slow down the skin’s ability to regenerate, leaving it feeling tight, rough, or itchy.  

For those with sensitive skin, these effects can often be more pronounced, leading to increased redness, irritation, and conditions like eczema and rosacea. Dry skin can also worsen underlying skin conditions, which is why it’s crucial to address it early.  

How to Prevent Dry Skin  

Prevention is key when it comes to winter skincare. Here’s how you can keep your skin protected:

1. Hydrate from within:

Stay hydrated! Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Aim for between 6-8 glasses a day to support the natural moisture balance of your skin.  

2. Use a humidifier:

Indoor heating may dry out the air, so adding a humidifier to your home can help maintain the moisture levels in your environment. This can help to keep your skin from becoming parched.  

3. Moisturise regularly:

Choose a thick, nourishing moisturiser that locks in hydration. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which binds moisture to the skin, and glycerin, which helps draw moisture from the air into the skin.  

4. Avoid hot showers:

While it’s tempting to take hot showers during winter, they can strip the skin of its natural oils. Choose lukewarm water instead and keep shower time short.  

5. Sun protection:

The winter sun can still damage your skin. Make sure to use suncream every day to prevent sun damage and protect your skin from UV rays that can cause dryness, redness, and premature ageing.

How to Treat Dry Skin

If your skin is already feeling dry, here’s how you can effectively treat it:

1. Use rich emollients:

For fast relief, use a thick, emollient-rich cream or oil-based moisturiser. These products form a barrier to lock in moisture and restore the skin’s natural elasticity.  

2. Gentle exfoliation:

Dry skin can result in dead skin cells accumulating on the surface which can make the skin feel rough. Use a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin but avoid harsh scrubs that could irritate sensitive skin. After exfoliating, you may want to apply a hydrating mask to replenish moisture.

3. Prescription treatments:

For more serious skin concerns, like melasma or acne scars, incorporating elements like prescription melasma treatment or acne removal cream may help to address these concerns that can worsen with dry skin.  

4. Protect your hands and lips:

The hands and lips can be particularly prone to dryness. Use a rich hand cream and lip balm throughout the day to prevent chapping.  

Winter-Ready Skincare Starts Now  

Winter doesn’t have to mean dry, uncomfortable skin. By following a few simple steps, you can effectively protect your skin from harsh elements, keeping it feeling smooth and healthy or season long. Whether you're looking to maintain your skin’s natural glow or combat the effects of winter dryness, the right approach can make all the difference.

If you’re dealing with persistent dryness or other skin conditions, get in touch with our expert team for personalised advice on how to keep your skin nourished this winter.