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Skin basics

Winter skin: how to keep it comfortable

Cold air outside and dry heat inside make skin feel tight and look dull. Here is how to adjust your routine for the season.

By Sofia ReyesBeauty editor (demo), Journal editor

Reviewed by Dr. Maya Ellison on October 28, 2026, MD, board-certified dermatologist (fictional)

· 2 min read

Demo illustration: Winter skin: how to keep it comfortable

Demo article: products mentioned here are fictional and shown for demonstration only.

When temperatures drop, the air holds less moisture and indoor heating dries it out further. Many people notice tight cheeks after cleansing, rough patches and makeup that clings to dry spots. None of this means something is wrong with your skin — it just needs a slightly different routine for a few months.

1. Cleanse more gently

Swap foaming or acid cleansers for a cream or milk cleanser in the evening. If your skin feels tight right after washing, the cleanser is too strong for the season. In the morning, lukewarm water or a quick rinse with a milk cleanser is often enough.

A milk cleanser leaves skin comfortable in cold weather.

2. Layer hydration, then seal it

Humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin draw water into the skin's surface; they work best on damp skin and under a moisturizer that keeps that water from evaporating. Look for ceramides, cholesterol, squalane or shea butter in the cream — they help support a comfortable skin barrier.

3. Go easy on exfoliation

If you use acids or retinol, consider using them one or two evenings fewer per week in winter, and always on dry skin, followed by a rich cream.

4. Do not forget body and hands

Moisturize within a few minutes of showering, while skin is still slightly damp. Urea and glycerin lotions soften rough legs and elbows; keep a hand cream next to every sink.

5. SPF still matters

Winter daylight still contains UVA. If you spend time outdoors — especially near snow — keep your morning sunscreen.

Not sure which products fit your skin? Ask our consultant: describe how your skin feels and it will suggest a winter routine and explain why each step is there.

Find your match

Find your winter routine

Cold air and indoor heating change what skin needs: three questions for a cozier routine.

2 min · 5 questions

About the author

Sofia Reyes

Beauty editor (demo), Journal editor

Turns routines into steps you will actually keep. Fictional demo profile — not a real person.

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