Winter is here, and if your skin is anything like mine, it’s probably staging a protest: dry patches, tightness, maybe even the dreaded flakiness. The key to surviving winter skin is a solid AM and PM routine that hydrates, protects, and repairs your skin barrier. Today, I’m walking you through exactly what I do and what works to keep my skin soft, glowing, and happy, no matter how cold it gets outside.
Why Winter Skincare Needs a Separate Routine
Ever noticed your usual skincare just doesn’t cut it when the temperature drops? That’s because cold air + indoor heating = moisture disaster. Your skin loses water faster, which can trigger irritation, redness, and even breakouts in some cases.
FYI: Winter skin isn’t just about slapping on more moisturizer. It’s about protecting the barrier, replenishing hydration, and addressing sensitivity. And yes, you can do this without turning your routine into a 12-step chore.
Morning (AM) Routine
1. Gentle Cleanser
Start the day with a hydrating cleanser. Skip harsh foaming gels, they strip your skin and make dryness worse. Look for ingredients like:
- Glycerin – locks in moisture
- Ceramides – repairs the skin barrier
- Aloe vera – soothes irritation
Tip: Wash with lukewarm water, never hot. Your skin will thank you.
2. Hydrating Toner
Toners in winter are more than a ritual; they prep your skin to absorb moisture. Choose a toner that’s alcohol-free and packed with humectants like:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Panthenol
- Sodium PCA
Just pat gently with your hands or a soft cotton pad.
3. Serum
Serums are concentrated powerhouses. In winter, focus on hydration and barrier repair:
- Hyaluronic acid serums – for instant hydration
- Vitamin C serums – optional, for brightening (but ensure it’s gentle if your skin is sensitive)
Apply 2–3 drops and let it absorb before moving on.
4. Moisturizer
This is where winter skincare really wins. Pick a thick, nourishing moisturizer with ingredients like:
- Ceramides – to repair and protect
- Squalane – lightweight hydration without greasiness
- Shea butter – for a protective layer against cold air
Tip: Layering is key. If your skin is super dry, mix a drop of facial oil into your moisturizer.
5. Sunscreen
Yes, even in winter! The sun still emits UV rays that damage your skin. Go for:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30+
- Hydrating formulas (cream or gel)
Pro tip: Apply after moisturizer but before makeup.
Evening (PM) Routine
1. Double Cleanse
Even if you didn’t wear makeup, double cleansing is crucial in winter. It ensures:
- Removal of sunscreen and pollutants
- Prevention of clogged pores
Step 1: Oil-based cleanser to melt away sunscreen, makeup, and grime.
Step 2: Gentle hydrating cleanser to rinse without stripping.
2. Exfoliation (2–3x per week)
Winter is not the time for aggressive scrubs. Go for chemical exfoliants like:
- PHA (polyhydroxy acids) – gentle, hydrating exfoliation
- Lactic acid – smooths rough patches and supports barrier health
Tip: Skip exfoliation if your skin is flaky or irritated. Less is more in winter.
3. Hydrating Toner or Essence
Much like the AM routine, apply a hydrating toner or essence to prep your skin. Winter is the perfect season to double down on hydration.
4. Targeted Treatments
If you have specific concerns like hyperpigmentation or fine lines apply your treatments after toning but before moisturizer:
- Niacinamide – brightening & barrier support
- Retinol – only 1–2x per week in winter, with a heavy moisturizer afterward
5. Rich Moisturizer or Night Cream
Nighttime is when your skin repairs and regenerates. Go for:
- Heavier creams than your morning moisturizer
- Occlusive ingredients like petrolatum or lanolin if your skin is extremely dry
- Barrier-repairing ingredients: ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids
Extra Tip: Layer a facial oil on top for ultra-dry skin.
Weekly Extras for Winter Skin
- Hydrating masks: 1–2x per week, packed with hyaluronic acid or aloe.
- Sheet masks: great for a boost, especially on chilly nights.
- Lip care: Chapstick or balms with SPF to protect from dryness.
Common Mistakes in Winter Skincare
- Skipping sunscreen: UV damage doesn’t hibernate in winter.
- Over-exfoliating: More is not better; it worsens dryness.
- Using hot water: Hot showers and washing accelerate moisture loss.
- Ignoring lips & hands: Don’t forget them—they dry out fastest.
- Switching too many products: Stick to gentle, hydrating formulas.
Winter Skincare Shopping Tips
- Look for cream-based cleansers and moisturizers.
- Avoid alcohol-heavy toners or harsh foaming washes.
- Stick with gentle, low-concentration actives (like 5% vitamin C or 0.25–0.5% retinol).
- Choose products with occlusives + humectants for maximum hydration.
My Personal Winter Routine (Example)
AM:
- Hydrating cream cleanser
- Aloe-based toner
- Hyaluronic acid serum
- Lightweight ceramide moisturizer
- SPF 30
PM:
- Oil cleanser
- Gentle cream cleanser
- Hydrating toner
- Niacinamide serum (every other night)
- Rich barrier-repair cream
- Optional facial oil
Weekly: Sheet mask or hydrating mask 1–2x, gentle chemical exfoliation 1–2x.
Final Thoughts
Winter skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. The secret is hydration, barrier repair, and consistency. Start with gentle cleansers, layer hydration, use richer moisturizers, and protect your skin, even from indoor heating and chilly winds. Stick to your routine, listen to your skin, and you’ll be glowing all season.
Remember: Winter is the perfect excuse to pamper your skin. Think of your AM & PM routine as a daily mini spa session hydrating, soothing, and protective. Your future self (and your mirror) will thank you.
