Get ready to combat winter’s harsh effects on your skin with the ultimate winter skincare routine. With the arrival of winter, it’s common for skin to become dry, dull, and flaky due to the cold weather, low humidity, and harsh winds. But don’t let these harsh conditions take over your skin’s health. By including the right moisturizer in your skincare regimen, you can maintain hydrated, healthy, and radiant skin throughout the winter season.
In this post, we will share with you our top picks for the best moisturizers to combat dryness during the winter. We will also discuss the different types of moisturizers and how to choose the right one for your skin type and concerns.
1-Cream Moisturizers
For those with dry or mature skin, cream moisturizers are essential winter skincare products. They offer more intense hydration to the skin than lotions because they are thicker and more emollient. They function by creating a barrier on the skin that traps moisture and prevents it from evaporating. The CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cream, and La Mer Moisturizing Cream are a few of our favorites.
2-Oil-based Moisturizers
Another fantastic option for people with dry or mature skin is an oil-based moisturizer. They have a nourishing and calming effect on the skin and are richer and more hydrating than cream moisturizers. They function by deeply hydrating and repairing the skin by penetrating the skin. Some of our favorites are the Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum, the Kiehl’s Daily Reviving Concentrate, and the Votary Superseed Facial Oil.
3-Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizers
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. This makes it an ideal ingredient for moisturizers, particularly for those with oily or combination skin. Hyaluronic acid moisturizers work by attracting and retaining water in the skin, resulting in a plump, hydrated, and youthful-looking complexion. Some of our favorites include the The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, and the Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Sleeping Mask.
4-Shea Butter Moisturizers
Shea butter is a healthy emollient that is abundant in vitamins and fatty acids. It works wonders in moisturizing dry, delicate, or irritated skin. To lock in moisture and relieve dryness and itching, shea butter moisturizers work by forming a barrier on the skin. Some of our favorites are L’Occitane Pure Shea Butter, Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve, and Nuxe Prodigieuse Oil.
5-Vitamin C Moisturizers
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from environmental damage, boost collagen production, and even out the skin tone. Vitamin C moisturizers work by nourishing and brightening the skin while providing hydration. Some of our favorites include the Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum, the Obagi C-Clarity Serum, and the The Inkey List Vitamin C Moisturizer
It’s crucial to take your skin type and concerns into account when selecting a moisturizer. For instance, you should look for a moisturizer with a thicker consistency and emollient components like shea butter, coconut oil, or glycerin if you have dry or mature skin. Look for a moisturizer with a lightweight texture and non-comedogenic ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or salicylic acid if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
Related: Top 7 Retinol Alternatives for Clear, Glowing Skin
The Importance of Staying Hydrated for Winter Skin Health
Applying moisturizer to damp skin is one of the most crucial considerations to make when using it in the winter. Apply a toner to help hydrate your skin after washing your face, then apply your moisturizer right away while your skin is still damp. This will create a barrier to shield your skin from the corrosive winter elements and help to lock in moisture.
Another winter skincare must-have is a good lip balm. Cold weather, dry air, and wind can cause your lips to become chapped, dry, and cracked. Lip balms containing beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil can help to keep your lips moisturized and protected.
In addition, it is important to protect your skin from the sun during the winter. UV rays can cause damage to your skin even on cloudy days, so it’s essential to apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before heading out of the house. You can also look for moisturizers that contain sunscreen to simplify your routine.
Exfoliating is also important in winter, as it removes dead skin cells and promotes cell renewal, leaving your skin looking smooth and refreshed. You can use gentle scrubs or chemical exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to get the job done.
Lastly, don’t forget to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Drinking water helps to hydrate the skin from the inside out, which is essential for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin during the winter.
Top Picks on Amazon
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cream: A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that provides intense hydration for a healthy, supple complexion.
- La Mer Moisturizing Cream: A luxurious, rich cream that deeply moisturizes the skin and helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Kiehl’s Daily Reviving Concentrate: A lightweight, fast-absorbing serum that revitalizes tired skin and provides a boost of radiance.
- Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum: A powerful, high-strength retinoid serum that targets fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone for a brighter, smoother complexion.
To maintain healthy, hydrated, and radiant skin during the winter, it is crucial to use the proper moisturizer, lip balm, sunscreen, exfoliate, and drink plenty of water. With the right products, an ongoing routine, and a few easy lifestyle adjustments, you can maintain beautiful skin all winter long.
Remember to pick a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type and concerns and don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist if you have any doubts. Happy Winter!
Photo: Pexels/ Ivan Samkov
