3 Ways Winter Dries Out Your Skin (and How to Fix Them—Without Giving Up Cozy Season)
Winter has a way of making everything feel comforting—soft sweaters, warm drinks, long showers. Unfortunately, your skin doesn’t always agree. If your complexion feels tight, dull, flaky, or suddenly “reactive,” it’s not your imagination.
Here are the three biggest ways winter dries out your skin, plus simple, realistic fixes that let you keep the cozy—without sacrificing your glow.
1. Low Humidity = Moisture Evaporation
Cold air holds less moisture than warm air, and winter humidity levels plummet—especially in colder climates. When there’s less moisture in the air, your skin loses water faster through a process called transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
What this looks like:
Tightness after cleansing
Makeup clinging to dry patches
Fine lines looking more pronounced
How to fix it (without moving climates):
Switch to a hydrating, non-foaming cleanser
Layer hydration: think hydrating mist + serum + moisturizer
Use a humidifier in your bedroom at night
Seal everything in with a barrier-repair moisturizer (ceramides are your winter BFF)
Pro tip: Hydration isn’t always just “thicker” creams—it’s about water + oil working together.
2. Indoor Heaters = Dehydration on Repeat
Heaters are lifesavers in winter, but they dry out the air—and your skin—constantly. Even if your routine is solid, spending hours in heated environments can undo your efforts.
What this looks like:
Skin feeling dry again by midday
Increased redness or sensitivity
Lips and under-eyes constantly chapped
How to fix it (and stay warm):
Add a hydrating serum morning and night
Don’t skip moisturizer—even if your skin is acne-prone
Use a facial oil or occlusive balm at night to lock in moisture (ask your esthtie for a recommendation - especially if you are breakout prone)
Keep a hydrating mist nearby for a mid-day refresh
Winter skin loves consistency more than complexity.
3. Hot Showers = Stripped Skin Barrier
We love them. Your skin… not so much. Hot water strips your natural oils, weakens the skin barrier, and increases inflammation—especially on the face, neck, and chest.
What this looks like:
Post-shower redness
Itchy or flaky skin
Products suddenly stinging
How to fix it (without giving them up entirely):
Keep showers warm, not hot
Limit facial cleansing to once daily (night is best)
Apply skincare within 60 seconds of getting out
Use a barrier-repair moisturizer immediately after cleansing
Cozy hack: End your shower slightly cooler—some say this helps stimulate lymphatic flow
The Winter Skin Sweet Spot
Healthy winter skin is about:
Gentle cleansing
Layered hydration
Barrier support
Protecting what your skin already has
With a few small shifts, your skin can feel calm, hydrated, and resilient all season long—no sacrifice required.
If your skin still feels off despite a solid routine, winter is the perfect time for professional hydration treatments and personalized product guidance. Sometimes your skin just needs a little extra love.
Here’s to glowing skin and cozy nights!