The Her Campus National Editors write about products we love and think you’ll love too. Her Campus has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase. All products are in stock and all prices are accurate as of publication.
As the cold weather arrives, so does the cracked, dry, and irritated skin. However, changing up your skincare routine for the season and switching to gentle and hydrating products can help keep your skin happy and healthy! While this may sound stressful and money-consuming, there are many affordable products with great ingredients that work, while maintaining versatility for different skin types. With the help of board-certified Dermatologist and skincare expert Dr. Andrea Suarez, here are a few skincare ingredients to look for during the colder months.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid, a well-known ingredient, adds more hydration to the skin by holding and retaining water moisture, as explained by Dr. Suarez. It also works as a humectant, keeping water on the surface of the skin to keep it plump. Because HA is a gentle ingredient, it works great on all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin. Two HA products that are retailed for under ten dollars include The Inkey List’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum, and, a fan favorite, The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum. Another serum that is also budget-friendly is Good Molecule’s Highly Potent Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
Glycerin
Another ingredient that works to maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier is Glycerin. It helps by pulling water from the air back into the skin and protects against environmental damage, such as pollution. Glycerin is another gentle ingredient that can be beneficial for all skin types. Dr. Saurez also states that because it penetrates deeper than the surface, it is great for those with dehydrated skin! Dermatica’s Balancing Glycerin Gel Cleanser is a great option not only because it’s affordable, but it’s a gentle cleanser with Glycerin as a main ingredient, preventing it from stripping the skin during the cleansing process. For those looking for a gentle body lotion that is ultra-hydrating, Dove’s Body Love Intense contains glycerin to help build and support the skin barrier.
Ceramides
As the air begins to hold less moisture in winter months and our skin becomes dry and cracked, Ceramides help to rebuild the skin’s natural barrier by “improving dullness, fine lines, and dehydrated discomfort”, as stated by Dr. Suarez. Switching from your lightweight moisturizer to a hydrating product that contains Ceramides is essential. Paulas’s Choice’s Barrier Repair Advanced Moisturizer is perfect, as it is hydrating for drier skin, but not too overpowering for those with oily skin. Another great product with both Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid that I love is the Inkey List’s Ceramide Hydrating Night Treatment.
My Personal Favorites
As someone with dry and dehydrated skin who also struggles with eczema, I understand the pain of dealing with skin irritation and discomfort during the drier months, and know the cold can be a trigger for many uncomfortable and painful skin issues. My absolute favorite serum for when my skin barrier is inflamed is KraveBeauty’s Great Barrier Relief! A few winters ago, I struggled for months with dehydrated and inflamed skin and this product brought my skin back to life. Another product I use year-round that makes my skin plump and my skin barrier healthy is Cosxr Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence.