The Game of Thrones motto, “winter is coming,” is more than just a catchy meme or trendy caption for your Instagram. It’s also the thought tons of women have in the weeks leading up to colder weather for one looming reason: it means their dry skin is going to get even drier. Even if you aren’t predisposed to dry skin year-round, experiencing rosier skin-coloring or chapped lips is pretty common during the winter months. Get ahead of the season with these product recommendations that college students swear by!
1. Pearlessence Balancing Facial Oil, Argan + Vitamin E
If your skin is in dire need of extra hydration, opt for this hydrating oil that restores moisture to depleted, dry skin. Arizona State University student Marisa Pieper uses this everyday before bed and under her makeup, “It makes my skin smooth without that feeling of excess product, says Pieper. This oil is a great way to add additional moisture without the heavy feeling that can sometimes accompany thick creams, and will leave your face feeling naturally radiant and quenched.
2. Kora Organics Noni Glow Face Oil
This face oil is perfect for all skin types, whether you have super dry or super oily skin. If you’ve noticed your skin looking uneven or particularly dull, then this will be your new go-to. It’s ingredients; certified organic noni extract, rosehip oil, pomegranate oil and sea buckthorn oil, ensure fast absorption into dry skin and a softer, smoother feel. Lia Fatica, a junior at Pennsylvania State University, can’t live without this product, “I use it before bed and wake up with my skin feeling so more smoother!” she says. Waking up with a fresh face makes every morning routine that much easier.
3. Lancôme’s Hydra Zen Anti-Stress Moisturizing Face Cream
There’s nothing worse than walking to class through strong gusts of wind while knowing that it’s causing your already-dry-skin to become that much drier. If you’re always trying to protect your skin from harsh weather, then this Lancôme moisturizer is perfect for you. It’s one of Sephora’s top-rated moisturizers because of its ability to protect your skin from unwanted environmental stressors.
4. Créme de la Mer
If your skin is in need of some intense rejuvenation, the Créme de la Mer can help. It’s formula is made using the brand’s nutrient-rich Miracle Broth, which promises to improve fine lines and wrinkles while hydrating the skin for a more youthful look. University of South Carolina Senior Abby Givens likes this product for the winter, “It doesn’t make my skin oily and fills in the lines on my face,” said Givens. You better save up though, because just 1 oz. of this will run you $170.
5. Cetaphil’s Moisturizing Lotion
Cetaphil’s moisturizer is a great product for students who are on a budget. It works to protect and enhance the skin’s natural moisture while simultaneously replenishing sensitive or very dry skin. Senior Morgan Wilkinson from the University of South Carolina swears by this daily moisturizer: “I’ve re-bought it so many times, I just love it,” she says. Plus, you can buy this product almost everywhere, including drug stores, Target and places like Sephora and Ulta.
6. Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion
Aside from providing coverage from outside factors, like winter weather, for up to 24 hours, this moisturizer also restores the skin’s natural pH balance thanks to the main ingredient, oatmeal. Addie Jonas, a senior at Drexel University, swears by this product. “It smells a little bit weird, but it works the best for my skin,” says Jonas. “I use it all the time.” So whether you’re an oatmeal lover, or just crave smooth, hydrated skin, this is the product for you!
7. H2O+ AquaDefense Matcha Essence
This spritz is the perfect addition to your daily moisturizer for some much-needed hydration throughout the day. Voted as one of Allure’s Best of Beauty winners, the H20+ AquaDefence Matcha Essence creates an invisible barrier between your skin and the toxins around it. It also minimizes the appearance of pores, so it’s definitely a must-but.
8. Clarins’s Multi-Active Day Cream SPF 20
If you’re looking for a moisturizer that treats a variety of problems, this day cream is your best bet. Plus, it comes with varying degrees of SPF, so you can pick out the amount you’d prefer. “I love that it has SPF in it because it’s easy to forget about that in the winter,” said University of South Carolina senior Reilly Tuccinard. She also tells us that “a little goes a long way,” which is great if you’re not a fan of having to re-buy products often.
9. Estee Lauder’s NightWear Plus 3-Minute Detox Mask
This Estee Lauder mask dries in minutes and works to draw out the skin’s impurities for a fresher, clearer complexion. It also works to diminish pores by absorbing any toxins or debris that have accumulated. Next time you have a few minutes, relax and treat your skin with this quick face mask.
10. Philosophy’s Hope in a Jar
This multitasking moisturizer was originally created for medical professionals in order to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, skin discoloration and dehydration, but it’s available at Ulta or Sephora for less than $40. The serum contains alpha hydroxy acids, works to improve skin, leaving the skin feeling smoother and more hydrated.
Don’t let the winter weather dry out your skin once again; choose from any of these products and trick your skin into thinking it’s still summer!