Winter Skincare Tips For Every Skin Type: How to Treat Oily, Dry, Combination and Sensitive Skin in Winter

Winter is when you switch to your winter wardrobe and also to an alternative winter skincare regime. Skincare routines need to be adjusted depending on the season and weather condition whether you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin. Your skincare habits should be tailored to combat the damaging and drying effects that winter has on the skin.

Reasons to adapt your skincare routine to seasonal and weather conditions

Adverse changes in your skin can be attributed to the changing of seasons as well as environmental and lifestyle factors. In winter, the air’s moisture levels are lower which directly affects your skin and ultimately determines how much moisture your skin may need and what your winter skincare products will comprise. 

In summer months, many may experience signs of oily or greasy skin due to sweat-inducing temperatures. These seasonal conditions will require summer or winter skincare adjustments and specifications. The season’s hot days will determine if your skin needs a light foaming facial cleanser to remove excess oil or a creamier and hydrating facial cleanser during the colder months. 

Our skin is constantly adjusting to environmental pressures to maintain adequate moisture, pH balance and oil control.  Different winter skincare is required compared to summer and it is crucial to give your skin what it needs during these seasonal transitions.

How different seasons and climate changes affect our skin?

When transitioning from warm to cold climates, for example, from summer to autumn, changes in temperature and humidity decrease, disrupting the skin’s barrier. This disruption may increase susceptibility to inflammation and irritation as the cold weather requires your skin to work harder to maintain hydration and the loss of hydration can lead to cracked skin. Winter comes with climate changes and additional lifestyle changes that follow can play a role in skin health.

As the weather shifts from cold to warmer climates, you could experience greasy or oily skin as a result of oil getting trapped under the surface of the skin. It is normally in these circumstances that you will benefit from a winter skincare routine for oily skin to combat the increase in oil.

What usually happens to our skin in winter?

The skin is stripped of its natural moisture during winter as the air becomes cold and dry and it functions as a protective barrier against the external environment. When winter hits, the skin produces fewer oils than usual, therefore the skin becomes more susceptible to damaging effects such as dryness. 

This is more common in people with sensitive or acne-prone skin. When temperatures and humidity drop, it’s tempting to take long, hot showers along with increasing the internal heating in the home, which results in skin being subjected to cracking, irritation, inflammation, and dryness due to the loss of moisture. This loss of hydration can affect the skin’s overall state and for that reason, your skin will benefit from a heavy, creamy, and hydrating cleanser to compensate for the loss of moisture during these times.

Winter Skincare Routine

For Oily Skin

Winter skincare for oily skin regime requires careful cleansing in the morning and evening with a water-soluble cleanser. Oily skin is prone to dead skin build-up which can block pores, so it’s important to exfoliate at least 3 times per week. 

When using a toner for oily skin, the skin rids itself of residual dirt before adding the next application. During the winter months, you need to consider using an oil-free moisturiser. There are many available in a gel form that are water-based and enriched with vitamin E. Look for creams that have calming and soothing effects on the skin.

For Dry Skin

A skincare routine for dry skin in winter changes slightly to using a balm, oil or cream cleanser. Foaming and bubbly cleansers contain sulphates that tend to dry the skin further. Exfoliate in moderation, as the skin is already dry and excessive scrubbing will dehydrate the skin even more. 

It is advisable to skip the toner during the winter months, as these generally contain alcohol to absorb oils, and will dry out the skin even more. Use an alcohol-free face mist as an alternative. Switch your moisturiser from a lotion to a cream, as they contain emollients that are more important for a winter skincare routine for dry skin during low-humidity conditions.

For Combination Skin

Winter skincare for combination skin can be a bit challenging as you are dealing with oily and dry skin types. A morning routine using a gentle cleanser to clean your face is important to rid the skin of toxins during the night. Don’t go overboard with the exfoliation programme as being too harsh could have a negative impact so rather stick to gel or water-based products. 

Rather opt for a gentle, no alcohol toner for combination skins. Moisturising combination skin can be a tricky one, as you need to limit the application on the T-zone and concentrate on the dryer areas of your face.

For Sensitive Skin

Winter skincare for sensitive skin during the winter months is important as many ingredients do not agree with sensitive skin types. Choose products that work with your skin and do not contain harmful ingredients. Try keeping your environment moist with a humidifier and use gentle cleansing creams with a natural base that is softer on the skin. Exfoliating scrubs can be too severe so use for a washcloth for a light rub. 

The use of non-alcoholic toners can alleviate skin inflammation as it restores the pH levels in the skin. Skincare for acne-prone skin in winter requires the above attention during the winter months and make sure that your moisturiser is suitable for sensitive skin types.

General Tips and Recommendations

Drink enough water, maintain a consistent skincare regime, and wear sunblock every day. Skincare products for winter should include the right cleanser and toner for your skin to ensure the correct hydration. Also use a moisturiser day and night and include sunscreen daily.

Effective Cosmetic Procedures for Winter

Some cosmetic procedures that are recommended during winter are skin resurfacing and plastic surgery. It’s the perfect time for your skin to heal from any procedures as it is easier to stay indoors so your skin can recuperate. Additionally, there is less exposure to harsher UV rays and it is the ideal season to prepare your skin for summer.

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