Whether we like it or not, there’s no denying that winter is near, and with it comes frigid temperatures, dry air, and dark skies. I love winter, but I don’t love how it causes dry and flaky skin. The outside weather blasts our skin with cold and unforgiving air, while indoor heating sucks out any remaining moisture; it’s a tough season for our skin!
I suffer from pretty much every dermatological issue one can encounter in winter. Alongside constantly dry and parched skin, I suffer from eczema, which means I get itchy red patches all over my body, especially my face. I spend every winter slathering vaseline on my skin and sitting in front of a humidifier.
I consider myself somewhat of an expert on dealing with dry winter skin. So, without further ado, here are some tips and products I use to keep my face presentable during the winter months.
- Morning Skincare Routine
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With sensitive skin like mine, I try to avoid using too many products, which can cause irritation. I follow a simple skincare routine twice a day, morning and night.
I begin my skincare routine by washing my face; I highly recommend the Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser. I love to use this cleanser year-round due to its affordability and gentle feel. It leaves my skin feeling clean, not dry.
Next, I skip past toners, which tend to dry and irritate my skin. I like to immediately apply facial oil instead, which adds additional hydration and moisture. I usually use The Ordinary’s 100% Organic Cold Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil – this is one of my holy grails; I’ve repurchased this product at least three times. I use the included pipette to dispense three to four drops on my skin, and it instantly feels soft and hydrated.
I then like to apply a vitamin C serum, which helps boost hydration (as you can see, hydration is a priority in my winter routine!) I’m currently loving Derma E’s Vitamin C Concentrated Serum, which is great for my sensitive skin.
Lastly, I like to finish my morning routine off with a light moisturizer and sunscreen duo, currently the Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture SPF 15. This is great for the winter, because it’s light on the sun protection; my skin doesn’t get enough sunlight during the colder months!
- Makeup
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Next, I apply my makeup. Although we’ll probably be wearing masks during the winter, I feel most comfortable with a full face of makeup on!
I make certain changes to my makeup routine to accommodate for the winter. I like to begin by prepping my skin with a primer. I choose a primer that not only protects my skin from the cold air, but also adds a layer of moisture. For this, I like to use Too Faced’s Hangover Replensing Face Primer. This primer is basically magic; it gives me a brand-new face that’s glowy and radiant! I apply a little bit to the dry patches on my face, and it instantly brightens up the application area.
After prepping, I like to apply foundation to cover up any visible redness. I try to use a dewy, hydrating foundation, like Maybelline’s Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation. I find this product perfect for the winter, as it helps smooth and hydrate my skin.
- Time for Sleep! My Nighttime Routine
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After a long day out in the cold, I absolutely have to wash my face. I start by removing my makeup with an oil cleanser, which leaves my skin feeling clean and soft. I personally love the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, as it melts the makeup off of my face without any scrubbing or tugging at my already-irritated skin.
Next, I use the same face oil I use in the morning, just to give my skin more hydration. After this step, I like using a serum or essence – this is where the real magic happens! Serums have a ton of different benefits for the skin, but I’m currently using Peach & Lily’s Glass Skin Refining Serum, which, as the name implies, helps give my skin a “glassy” appearance. It contains one of my favorite ingredients – hyaluronic acid, which is essential for the winter months. Hyaluronic acid boosts the skin’s moisture levels and plumps it up!
Immediately after applying the serum, I follow it up with a thick moisturizer; right now I’m using the Vanicream Moisturizing Cream. If you’re going to get anything from this article, I highly recommend this product! This is a godsend for those who struggle with eczema or any sort of dry skin. It comes in a large pump container, so it’s both hygienic and lasts forever.
Lastly, I like to finish my skincare routine by slathering on a thick healing ointment to seal in the moisture. Right now, I’m using the Cerave Healing Ointment, which helps my dry and flaky skin heal overnight. This product is amazing, and I highly recommend it for the winter!
These are a few products I recommend for the winter months! I’ve tried out a ton of skincare and makeup products over the past few years, and I think these are some of the best for those with dry and irritated skin. While I deal with similar issues throughout the year, winter is a particularly tough time on my skin, so I like to focus on hydration and moisturization. If you’re dealing with similar skin troubles, I believe these products will work great for you!