Adding a few go-to products to your routine can make a big difference in how your skin handles the colder months. Here’s a breakdown of essential skincare steps for cold weather with specific product recommendations:
1. Gentle Cleanser
Look for a non-stripping formula to cleanse without drying.
- CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser: Packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, this cleanser is ideal for keeping your skin’s natural barrier intact.
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser: This mild formula is perfect for sensitive skin and provides a creamy, hydrating cleanse.
2. Hydrating Serum
Adding a serum boosts moisture levels, especially in colder months.
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: A budget-friendly option that offers long-lasting hydration.
- Vichy Minéral 89 Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Known for its lightweight, plumping texture, this serum helps restore skin’s moisture levels.
3. Rich Moisturizer
Swap lighter moisturizers for thicker creams that lock in hydration.
- First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream: Rich but nongreasy, this cream has colloidal oatmeal to soothe dry, flaky skin.
- Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream: Perfect for adding extra moisture and strengthening the skin barrier without feeling too heavy.
4. Gentle Exfoliator
Regular but mild exfoliation helps prevent dullness and flakiness.
- Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: A cult favorite that exfoliates gently to reveal brighter skin.
- The Inkey List Lactic Acid Serum: This mild, gentle acid works well for sensitive skin and is excellent for combating dryness.
5. Daily SPF
Sunscreen is just as crucial in winter to protect against UV damage.
- EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40: This SPF moisturizer hydrates while providing broad-spectrum protection.
- Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40: Lightweight and invisible, it layers beautifully under makeup without any white cast.
6. Lip Balm & Hand Cream
Cold air can dry out lips and hands quickly, so these are winter essentials.
- Aquaphor Lip Repair: A lifesaver for chapped lips with a rich, soothing formula.
- L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream: Enriched with shea butter, it’s deeply moisturizing and ideal for dry winter hands.
7. Humidifier
Indoor heat can dry out the air, so consider a humidifier for better skin hydration.
- LEVOIT Cool Mist Humidifier: Compact, quiet, and helps keep moisture in the air throughout the night.
With these products in your winter routine, your skin will stay soft, hydrated, and resilient all season long.