This article has been reviewed and approved by certified skin therapist Jasmina Pivic on January 31, 2024.
When it's cold outside, we become like little raisins and no matter what we do, it feels impossible to make our skin feel lovely and moisturized like in the summer months. But what can we do to get the moisture we need even in winter? Our skin therapist Jasmina Pivic offers answers about skin care in winter.
Why is skin so dry in winter?
First, it's important to understand why our skin gets so dry in the winter. Several factors come into play:
- Low humidity: The main reason why your skin feels like Velcro is that cold air tends to be drier than warm air. When it's below 10 degrees, there is simply less moisture in the air. In addition, the heat from indoor heaters causes the humidity to decrease even further. When the moisture is dry, your skin also becomes dry.
- Find: The harsh winter winds can “blow away” the thin layer of fat that traps moisture in the skin. This of course leads to increased water loss and dryness in the skin.
- Hot showers: It may be nice to let hot water warm up your cold body this winter, but for the sake of your skin, it's best to avoid it. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and dehydrated.
- Sun cream: Did you know that we need sunscreen even in winter? The sun's UV rays can damage the skin even when it is low and not warming. UV radiation dries out the skin, so apply a layer of sunscreen if you are going outside.
- Extreme temperature changesr: Surely the burning sensation on your cheeks when you come into your warm home after an icy walk is familiar? The fact is that these strong temperature differences, sometimes as much as 50 degrees, can cause the skin to dry out.
What is the best skin care in winter?
Now that you understand what dries out your skin, it's easier to take the necessary steps to keep your skin wonderfully moisturized and healthy all winter long.
It could be adjusting your skincare routine with thicker creams in the winter, or treating yourself to a facial at a salon every now and then to give your skin a boost. Here are our skin therapist Jasmina's top tips for keeping your skin hydrated all winter long:
- Drink lots of water: Or large cups of tea if you feel more comfortable. This will help maintain the moisture balance in your skin.
- Wash with gentle products: Choose a gentle, moisturizing cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils. Avoid hot water, as it can further dry out your skin.
- Moisturize regularly: Choose a heavy moisturizer in the winter to lock in moisture. Apply immediately after cleansing while your skin is still damp to maximize hydration. Want tips on which products are right for your skin? Get a skin analysis to get a customized recommendation.
- Protect your skin from the elements: Wear a scarf and gloves to protect your skin from harsh winds and cold. Expose as little bare skin as possible to the elements.
- Use sunscreen: Yes, even in winter, UV rays can damage your skin. Use at least SPF 30, especially on exposed areas like your face and hands.
- Make your home a little more humid: It may sound strange, but having a humidifier can do wonders for your skin, as indoor humidity can become incredibly low when the heat is on.
- Exfoliate: Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and helps your skincare products penetrate the skin. Choose a gentle exfoliant and use it a couple of times a week.
- Limit hot showers: They're great, but hot showers can strip your skin of natural oils. Opt for lukewarm water instead and try to shorten your shower time. You'll also be doing the climate a favor!
- Choose the right fabrics: Soft, airy fabrics like cotton can help your skin breathe and avoid irritation. Avoid tight clothing, which can further irritate dry skin.
- Adapt your skincare routine to the season: Include products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides that help lock in moisture in your winter skincare routine.
- Protect your lips and hands: These two body parts are the most exposed to winter weather and tend to be the driest. Use moisturizing lip balm to prevent dry lips (at Estetikcentrum we have a really nice one that is also a stylish accessory!) and a rich hand cream every time you wash your hands.
Why is it important to moisturize the skin?
If you want to look young for a long time, you should definitely remember to moisturize your skin. Here are some important reasons to take care of your skin:
- The skin is a protective barrier against bacteria and viruses – keep it healthy and you keep yourself healthy.
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles that appear more easily when skin is dry. Hydration helps maintain skin elasticity and plumpness, reducing the appearance of signs of aging.
- Moisturized skin heals faster
- Hydrated skin has more radiance and looks healthier. Moisture gives a natural glow, quite simply.
- Better regulation of sebum production, which can otherwise lead to acne
- Dry and cracked skin is more susceptible to various skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis.
- Moisturized skin feels more comfortable and calm. It's not so nice when your skin tightens when you smile.
- Better absorption of skin products – we want value for money!
What can I do at home to moisturize my skin?
Investing time and care in your winter skincare will not only combat dryness, but also give you healthy, glowing skin. In fact, most facials are best done during the winter, as both lasers and peels make you extra sensitive to the sun.
A powerful way to care for your skin during the winter months is to include regular facials . At Estetikcentrum, we offer customized treatments to combat dry skin and restore skin's radiance. Our skin therapists will help you choose the right treatment for your specific skin type.
Which skin treatments are best?
Top 5 treatments to moisturize skin in winter:
Our skin therapists always perform a skin analysis to find out which skin care products suit you best, so you can achieve the desired results with your skin care routine. Book your skin analysis here.
Are you craving a facial? Book a skin analysis to get a customized skincare plan that suits your skin here . You can also contact us if you have any questions, and we'll help you.
