Year after year, when temperatures fall, the combination of cold wind outside and dry, heated air indoors strips our skin of moisture and vitality. “Winter conditions dehydrate the skin, making it more susceptible to premature aging, hyperpigmentation and the development of fine lines,” says esthetician Susan Ardabili, owner of Susie Organic Skin Care in Denver. With more than 20 years in skincare, Ardabili has worked with many clients who demand visible results. To help your skin get through the season, return to simple, effective basics.
Hydrate
“Hydration is the first crucial step,” Ardabili emphasizes. Hydrating the skin isn’t just about applying creams and lotions when the temperature drops—you must support moisture from the inside out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and use a nourishing, hydrating moisturizer daily to lock in that moisture.
If you regularly experience dry skin, try adding a small amount of honey to your toner or moisturizer. Honey is a natural humectant that attracts and retains moisture, helping skin feel softer and more supple. To refresh and rehydrate the delicate skin around the eyes, place chilled cucumber slices over your eyes for a few minutes while relaxing.
For particularly rough areas like hands, feet and elbows, natural oils such as olive, coconut or avocado oil can create a protective barrier that seals in moisture. These oils are rich and effective for body use, but because they can clog facial pores, Ardabili advises against applying them to the face.
Rejuvenate
Reveal your skin’s natural glow by using a gentle cleanser that removes dry, dead skin without stripping essential oils. “Exfoliation is necessary for combating dull, dry skin,” Ardabili says. If dead skin and debris build up in the pores, topical treatments and serums cannot penetrate to deliver benefits.
Allow your skin to breathe and repair overnight by cleansing thoroughly each evening. Use a natural soap or a mild cleanser free from harsh detergents and artificial fragrances, and make sure to remove all makeup before bed. For a simple, natural makeup remover, blend cucumber into a paste, add a touch of lemon juice and a drop of rosemary essential oil. Lemon helps cleanse and purify, while rosemary offers antioxidant support and can help address blemished skin.
Nourish
A nutrient-rich diet supports healthy skin. Foods high in antioxidants and healthy fats help maintain a clear, radiant complexion. “Applying antioxidants directly to the skin is very important as well,” Ardabili notes. During winter, she recommends products containing vitamins A and C, hyaluronic acid and alpha-hydroxy acids to help preserve skin health.
“Antioxidants such as vitamins A and C boost collagen production, soften fine lines and reduce hyperpigmentation,” Ardabili explains. Hyaluronic acid, known for holding many times its weight in water, helps maintain hydration, while alpha-hydroxy acids gently promote smoother texture and renewal.
Protect
Daily sun protection remains essential, even on overcast or cold days. Ultraviolet exposure is a major contributor to premature skin aging, so applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 each day is recommended to protect skin from cumulative damage.
Because winter air tends to be drying, avoid behaviors that further strip your skin’s natural oils. Limit long, hot showers and avoid harsh, drying soaps. Hot water removes beneficial oils and can worsen dryness. “Having a good personal skin-care regime is vital for keeping skin looking and feeling its best,” Ardabili says. Consistent hydration, gentle cleansing, targeted nourishment and daily protection will help your skin stay healthy through the cold months.