A 4-Step Winter Skincare Routine To Keep Your Skin Hydrated & Glowing All Season Long

Winter comes with colder temperatures and dryer air or wind, two elements that are harsh on our skin. It’s important to care for your skin all year long, but it’s good to treat it especially gently during the winter months. This 4-step skincare routine is easy to follow and will ensure your skin gets the treatment and nutrients it needs to stay hydrated throughout the winter months.

Step 1: Cleanse & Tone

Choose a cleanser that is right for your skin’s needs. Everyone’s skin varies, so it’s important to remain mindful of your specific environment and skin type and avoid any ingredients that could irritate your skin.

While foaming cleansers are great during warmer months because they clean deeply to wash away sweat, dirt & sunscreen, it’s better to opt for something less harsh in the winter. Try a gentle cleanser, oil-based cleanser, or cleansing milk. These are wonderful for all skin types and remove makeup without stripping the skin of its protective layer.

If you do use a foaming cleanser after a workout or to remove tough makeup, be sure to follow it with a hydrating toner.

Step 2: Apply A Serum

If you haven’t yet, incorporate a day and night serum into your skincare routine. Effective serums should address your skin’s specific needs. As with all of your other winter skincare, be sure to pick a serum that is super hydrating and apply it following a toner, while your skin is still slightly damp for optimal absorption.

Step 3: Moisturize

Search for rich, easily absorbed moisturizers, and use both day and night. Opt for richer moisturizers with super hydrating ingredients during the winter. Generally speaking day moisturizers should be rich and at the same time light and easily absorbed while night moisturizers are thicker and heavier. They too should absorb well, just a bit slower.

Step 4: Apply An Eye Treatment

The delicate area below and surrounding the eyes is one of the first areas that shows our age. Especially with daily wearing of masks, the eyes are more pronounced, and the surrounding skin more tender, possibly irritated. An eye serum or cream helps nourish the delicate area around our eyes to take care of dark circles, fine wrinkles, puffiness and protects against the harsh winter elements.

Bonus Steps

Drink More Water

Not only do you need to hydrate your skin externally, but you also need to hydrate it internally. Slowly increase the amount of water you drink daily until you reach one gallon of water per day. Drinking plenty of water and getting the proper amount of nutrients will not only help your skin, but it will also help your hair, nails and overall health.

Apply A Face Mask Regularly

Use a mask treatment at least once a week. You can use an exfoliating mask to rid your face of any dry or dead skin that appears during the winter, but be sure to follow it up with a hydrating toner, moisturizer and serum to avoid drying your skin further. We also highly recommend a rich, hydrating mask to give you that extra boost of hydration you might need to maintain healthy skin.

Investing in a quality humidifier for your home can also help combat dry winter skin by adding moisture to the air. Additionally, don't forget about the rest of your body—keeping your skin hydrated from head to toe is crucial. Consider using a rich body lotion or oil after showering to lock in moisture, and don't neglect your feet! Apply a thick foot cream before bed and slip on cotton socks for adults to help soften rough heels and prevent further moisture loss overnight. By following these simple tips, you can keep your skin glowing and healthy all winter long.

Still need help putting together a winter skincare routine? Book a personal consultation with Dr. Mira where she will learn all about your skin’s needs and recommend a customized skincare routine.