How to Relieve Winter Skin Discomforts?

Winter can be harsh on your skin! Lips crack and chap, while the epidermis dries out, as if frozen like wax. While we often blame the biting temperatures—frequently dropping below 10 degrees—other factors such as heating, hot beverages, steaming showers, and nutritional deficiencies also contribute to skin fragility during this time of year. These stressors weaken the skin’s barrier, causing varying degrees of dryness, redness, tightness, and even itching. However, these discomforts are not inevitable. Here, we share some simple practices to help you navigate fluctuating temperatures and maintain healthy, radiant skin all winter long.

Let’s first understand how these factors impact skin quality.

Outdoors: Cold weather reduces sebum production, stripping the skin of its natural protective barrier, while dry air accelerates dehydration. This is why hands often become dry, rough, and sometimes irritated with redness. When icy winds blow, they further sap the moisture from the skin’s surface, leaving sensitive epidermises and lips especially vulnerable. The latter, being thin and devoid of sebaceous glands, are particularly prone to cracking. Adding to this, reduced natural sunlight and vitamin D levels can affect both our complexion and mood.

Indoors: Heating exacerbates dryness in the air, increasing moisture loss from the skin and even mucous membranes, such as the nose and throat. Frequent shifts between freezing outdoor air and warm interiors also cause blood vessels to expand and contract rapidly, hindering optimal blood flow. Hot showers worsen skin sensitivity by stripping away its natural oils. Lastly, while comforting, hot drinks can dehydrate, irritate the throat, and disrupt the body’s thermal balance.

Adopting mindful habits can ease these discomforts. After all, nobody enjoys chapped lips, tight skin, or rough hands.

Opt for rich, hydrating skincare products if your skin can tolerate them. Thick creams and masks enriched with plant oils, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides are perfect for both preventing and repairing winter damage.

Apply a generous layer, especially before bed, and reapply during the day when exposed to harsh conditions. Be cautious with exfoliation, as overdoing it may increase sensitivity.

Prevent chapping with a targeted balm before dryness sets in. Our balm, suitable for other areas of the face, combines sesame, jojoba, and castor oils with Carnauba wax (from Brazil) and shea butter for exceptional care. If lips are already damaged, apply the balm as an overnight mask, shield them with a soft scarf during the day, and resist the urge to lick or bite them, as saliva can aggravate irritation.

Dry, cold air can make eyes more vulnerable, amplifying dryness symptoms. Treat the delicate skin around the eyes with a nourishing and soothing cream designed for this sensitive area.

The skin on the hands is particularly thin and constantly exposed to environmental stressors. Regular washing and contact with abrasive surfaces further sensitise them during winter. Gloves are a must, but choose breathable fabrics such as wool, merino, or cashmere to avoid irritation. Opting for second-hand options can also be kind to your wallet and the planet.

These soft fabrics are equally beneficial for preventing body redness and itchiness. Instead of hot showers, opt for moderate temperatures below 38°C, with the occasional warm bath. While a good cup of tea offers comfort, it shouldn’t replace room-temperature water, which is essential for deep hydration. For an extra touch, a humidifier can help maintain sufficient moisture levels in your home and prevent dryness.

Caring for your skin in winter is all about small, thoughtful adjustments to your routine. These simple steps will not only make you feel more comfortable in your skin but also boost your confidence during the colder months.