Cold winds, indoor heating, and low humidity can all take a toll on your skin. During the winter months, natural oils are depleted more quickly, leaving skin dry, flaky, and vulnerable to irritation. The right moisturiser not only improves how your skin looks, it also protects the barrier, prevents damage, and helps avoid problems such as breakouts or even infection.
Here is why moisturising is especially important in winter, along with the products and tips that make the biggest difference.
Why Your Skin Needs Extra Care in Winter
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Environmental stress: Cold air outdoors combined with central heating indoors reduces moisture levels in the skin.
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Loss of natural oils: Lower humidity speeds up evaporation from the skin surface.
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Weakened barrier: A dry barrier makes the skin more prone to redness, blemishes, and fine lines.
Moisturising keeps the barrier strong, improves elasticity, and helps the complexion stay smooth and resilient even in harsh conditions.
Best Moisturisers for the Face
The right product depends on your skin type and environment:
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Daily Moisture Pot (SkinCeuticals): A lightweight hydrator for oily skin that delivers a plump look without clogging pores.
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Emollience (SkinCeuticals): Rich and nourishing for dry or normal skin, providing long-lasting protection against the elements.
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Hydrating B5 Gel (SkinCeuticals): A hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 serum that binds moisture to the skin, perfect for use alongside vitamin C.
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Hydrating Mask: Use in the evening once or twice a week, applying a thin layer for 10 to 15 minutes to restore comfort to very dry areas.
Apply moisturiser twice a day in winter, ideally while skin is slightly damp, to lock hydration in.
Why Hyaluronic Acid Helps
Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the skin, connective tissue, and joints, but levels drop with age and environmental exposure. Adding it topically helps to:
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Hold up to 1000 times its weight in water for intense hydration.
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Smooth and plump the skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
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Support repair by reducing inflammation and speeding up healing.
The SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Serum combines high levels of HA with botanical extracts, making it an excellent winter staple for all skin types.
How to Use It
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After cleansing, apply 4 to 6 drops to the palm.
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Massage gently into the forehead, cheeks, chin, and neck.
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Use daily, morning or evening. If used in the morning, always follow with SPF.
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Layer under your moisturiser for maximum effect.
Do Not Forget the Body
It is easy to focus on the face, but hot showers and cold air can dry out the rest of the body too. Knees, elbows, hands, and feet are especially prone to flaking and cracking.
For body care, look for:
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Richer, ceramide-based moisturisers that restore the barrier.
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Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic options.
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Long-lasting hydration to reduce irritation and keep skin supple.
Brands like CeraVe offer body creams that lock in moisture while protecting the barrier.
Bring Hydration Into Your Routine
Winter skincare is about consistency. Cleanse gently, apply a hydrating serum such as hyaluronic acid, follow with the right moisturiser for your skin type, and protect with SPF during the day. Do not neglect your body, rich creams will keep skin smooth and comfortable from head to toe.
With the right approach, your skin will stay glowing, healthy, and resilient throughout the season.