How to Take Care of Skin in Winter

As a makeup artist, I always tell my clients that good makeup starts with good skin. And in winter, our skin needs extra love and attention.

The winter season is a time of coziness, but it also means a time of extra skin dryness, flakiness, and irritation. That’s why it’s essential to adjust your skin care routine during these months, with the right habit. It is important to know how to take care of your skin in these colder months in order to keep a happy healthy skin.

Let’s talk about how I personally take care of my skin in winter and will also share some simple, effective, and herbal skincare secrets that really work.

Why Skin Needs Extra Care in Winter:

Winter air is dry and cold, with low humidity both indoor and outdoor. When heaters are constantly running, they remove even more moisture from the air and from your skin too. Heating can dehydrate your skin from its natural moisture, leaving it dry and dull. During winter, the skin barrier becomes weaker, making it more sensitive and damage. This is why adopting a winter skincare routine is not just about appearance, it’s about protection. Hydration help restore your skin barrier and defend against environmental changes like cold wind, UV rays and pollution.

When my clients come for makeup trials in winter, I often notice dullness around the nose and lips are classic signs of dehydration. A few small changes can completely revive your skin’s glow.

1. Follow a Gentle Skincare Routine:

Your skincare routine in winter should focus on hydration and protection rather than any damaging treatments. Switch to mild, sulfate-free cleansers that don’t take away natural oils from your skin. Avoid using very hot water while washing your face or showering; slightly warm water is best to maintain your skin’s moisture balance.

Winter Skincare Routine Example:

1. Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser that removes dirt without drying the skin.

2. Toner: Go for an alcohol-free toner with soothing ingredients like rose water or Aloe vera.

3. Serum: I love using one with Hyaluronic acid (hydrate and plumps the skin) for deep hydration or a drop of Vitamin E oil mixed with Aloe gel for natural glow and a use of Glycerin (moisturizes and hydrates skin).

4. Moisturizer: Use an authentic cream or lotion that provides deep hydration.

5. Sunscreen: Don’t skip SPF, even in winter! UV rays can still damage your skin.

UF TIP: Mix a few drops of Almond oil into your night moisturizer, it gives a lovely morning glow and keeps the skin barrier soft.

2. Build a Consistent Moisturizing Routine:

A good moisturizing routine is best for Skin Care in Winter. Look for a hydrating and skin barrier supporting moisturizer. This will help for moisture and create a protective layer over your skin. Look for product that support your skin barrier and contain hydrating ingrediants like Ceramides, Shea butter and Squalane.

For extremely dry areas like elbows, knees, or hands, consider using thicker ointments or petroleum jelly. Apply your moisturizer right after showering or washing your face, this helps in hydration and keeps your skin soft.

UF’s Herbal Foot Cream (My Personal Secret!)

When my feet get extremely dry in winter, I make a simple DIY herbal cream:

“I mix a spoon of Vaseline, a few drops of glycerin, and 2–3 drops of lemon juice. I apply it at night, wear cotton socks, and wake up to the softest feet ever!”

You can also try this on elbows and knees, it works perfectly!

UF Tip: Always keep a travel size moisturizer or hand cream in your bag. Reapplying through the day makes a huge difference, especially for makeup artists like me who are constantly washing hands.

3. Protect Your Skin from the Elements:

Wind, cold air and low temperature can cause redness and irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. When going outdoor, wrap up your skin with scarves, gloves, and hats to protect exposed areas and it also act as physical barriers against harsh weather. If you enjoy outdoor activities, make sure to reapply sunscreen every few hours to protect yourself from UV rays.

Winter skin protection isn’t just about clothing, it’s also about creating a healthy environment. Use a humidifier indoors to add moisture back into the air, protecting your skin from dehydration while you sleep or work.

UF Herbal Trick: Boil a handful of fennel seeds in water and use the steam on your face for a minute or two. It hydrates your skin and gives a fresh herbal glow.

4. Stay Hydrated from Within:

In winter, people often drink less water because they don’t feel as thirsty, but drinking enough water during winter is just as important as in summer. Even though you may not feel as thirsty, your body still loses moisture through respiration and heating systems. Aim to drink at least 6–8 glasses of water a day.

You can also boost hydration through your diet including foods like:

• Rich food like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts.
• Antioxidants fruits like berries and oranges.
• Contain Vitamins A and E through leafy green and vegetables to support skin health from the inside out.

UF Herbal Drink: Try a warm cup of water with honey, lemon, and a pinch of turmeric every morning. It keeps your skin clear and your body detoxified, one of my favorite winter habit.

5. Exfoliate Gently and Wisely:

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and allows moisturizers to dissolve better. However, during winter, it’s important to exfoliate gently. Use a mild scrub once a week to avoid dry skin.

Over-exfoliating can lead irritation, especially in cold and dry weather. If you have sensitive skin care in winter, use a gentle chemical exfoliant like lactic acid instead of a physical scrub, which can be too harsh. Chemical exfoliants use mild acids to remove dead skin without scrubbing, making them a safer option for sensitive winter skin. It dissolves dead cells without harsh friction, keep your skin smooth and calm.

UF’s Herbal Exfoliator:

• Mix 1 tsp of rice flour, 1 tsp of honey, and a few drops of milk.
• Gently massage your face for a minute and rinse.
• It’s one of my go-to pre-makeup rituals, it makes the skin smooth and glowing naturally.

Avoid strong scrubs or acids in winter; mild herbal exfoliation is more than enough.

6. How to Prevent Dry Skin in Cold Weather:

Dryness is one of the most common issue in winter skin, but it’s also one of the easiest to manage with the right approach. Here I recommend some quick dry skin in winter remedies you can try:

• Use Overnight Masks: Applying a hydrating overnight mask can help restore moisture while you sleep.

• Avoid Harsh Soaps: Choose fragrance-free and pH-balanced cleansers.

• Limit Hot Showers: Hot water may feel relaxing but can remove essential oils from your skin.

• Pat, Don’t Rub: After bathing, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it.

These small adjustments can make a big difference in maintaining soft, healthy skin throughout winter.

7. Special Care for Sensitive Skin:

If your skin is sensitive, the cold season can make things worse. To manage sensitive skin care in winter, focus on products that calm and protect. I suggest you to look for these:

• Ceramides: Repair and protect the skin barrier.
• Colloidal Oatmeal: Soothes irritation and dryness.
• Niacinamide: Reduces redness and strengths the skin.

This will help soothe and strengthen the skin barrier. Avoid products with alcohol, artificial fragrance, or strong acids. Always test new skincare items before applying them to your entire face.

8. Herbal Remedies to Soothe Dryness:

Here are some quick, tried-and-true herbal tricks I use for myself and my clients:

For dry lips: Apply a mix of honey and olive oil, no more chapping!

For dry hands: Massage with coconut oil and wear cotton gloves overnight.

For dull face: Apply a mask of yogurt, honey, and a pinch of turmeric once a week.

These little remedies not only nourish your skin but also connect you with nature, something I truly believe in when it comes to beauty.

9. Nighttime Care Matters Too:

Your nighttime winter skincare routine is when your skin gets a chance to repair and refresh. Use a thicker night cream or facial oil to provide deep hydration. Products containing Peptides, Niacinamide, or Retinol (if your skin tolerates it) can help improve texture and elasticity. Once or twice a week, try my DIY Herbal Sleeping Mask:

• Mix Aloe Vera gel with a drop of Vitamin E capsule and a few drops of rose water.
• Apply it before bed and wash off in the morning.
• You’ll wake up with hydrated, supple skin that looks naturally radiant.

10. Listen to Your Skin:

Everyone’s skin reacts differently, what works for one person may not work for another. The key to great Skin Care in Winter is paying attention to how your skin feels. If your skin becomes red, itchy, or flaky, simplify your routine and focus on gentle hydration.

Sometimes, consulting a dermatologist can help identify issues like eczema or dermatitis that may worsen in cold weather.

Sometimes, I tell my clients that “your skin speaks to you.” All you need is to listen, and respond with care and kindness.

Final Thoughts:

Winter doesn’t mean to dull, dry or irritated skin. With the right skin care for winter, you can keep your complexion soft, smooth and radiant all season long. Focus on hydration, protection, and gentle care. Skin care is not just about product, it’s about consistency and self care.

As a makeup artist, I’ve learned one golden rule, makeup only looks flawless when your skin is healthy.

So this winter, pamper your skin with love, hydration, and a few of my tried herbal tips. Your skin will thank you, and your makeup will too.