Article

Winter Skin SOS: Your Guide to Thriving in Colder Months

Published on Tuesday, November 18, 2025
by Rebecca Ledford

Wellness

Winter Skincare Tips: How to Protect and Nourish Your Skin in Cold Weather

As the sun starts to set on summer and fall, it’s time to embrace winter once again. The number one place that embraces the cold? Your skin! Your skincare routine is essential to your skin’s health and should change just as the seasons do.

Ready to learn more about your skin’s health? Keep reading and look for some Save Our Skin (SOS) fun facts!

Understanding Winter Skin Challenges

Winter weather doesn’t just cause a chill in the bones; it strips the moisture from your skin!

The Impact of Cold Air and Low Humidity

In most areas of the United States (not in the hot and humid south where I live), winter brings cold temperatures, low humidity, and chilly winds. This combination prevents the top layer of skin (made of several substances, including fatty acids and cholesterol) from protecting against irritants and sealing in much-needed moisture. This can cause many skin issues that can make for a not-so-jolly holiday.

Save Our Skin (SOS) Fact 1 - Did you know your skin has multiple layers like a cake? The three layers from top to bottom are the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis.

Common Winter Skin Concerns: Dryness, Sensitivity, and Irritation

Most winter skin concerns include rosacea (redness and bumps on the nose and cheeks), eczema (dry, red patches that can cause cracks in the skin), seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff on the scalp, and dry flaky patches on the chin, nose, and eyebrows), and psoriasis (red skin patches with silvery scales). Cold weather can also cause chapped lips, calluses, and corns on the feet, and rashes on the hands. Thankfully, these conditions can be managed and even prevented by using proper skincare products and techniques!

Save Our Skin (SOS) Fact 2 - Did you know sleep affects your skin? The more we’re on the move during the winter months (hello Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s), the less sleep we get! Sleep allows the skin to repair itself and replenish its protective layer. Be sure to get some quality rest this winter!

Top Tips for a Healthy Winter Skincare Routine

Here are some helpful habits to keep your skin happy and healthy!

Hydration Heroes: Moisturizers and Humidifiers

If you want skin as beautiful and unique as the beautiful winter sunrise, the key is hydration! Try using creams and ointments instead of the thin lotions you preferred during the warm summer months. Trade your bar of soap for a gentler alternative, such as liquid soap with added moisturizers. Add a humidifier to your home to keep the air nice and moisturized for optimal skin rejuvenation after a day in the cold.

Save Our Skin (SOS) Fact 3 - Did you know you should wear sunscreen in the winter, too? Snow reflects up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. UV rays are stronger in higher elevations, making participants of skiing, sledding, and other winter activities at higher risk of getting sunburned.

Gentle Cleansing and Smart Exfoliation

As the skin cells on the epidermis die, they need to be removed to help new, healthy skin cells create a strong barrier against the winter cold. The key is to be gentle and to know your skin type. When showering or taking a soothing bath, opt for warm water instead of hot to prevent your skin from drying out too fast. If you have sensitive skin, try using a mild chemical exfoliator or a washcloth to remove dead skin instead of harsh chemicals and brushes. Remember, don’t overexfoliate, which can cause even more skin issues.

Save Our Skin (SOS) Fact 4 - Did you know there are five main skin types? They are: sensitive, normal, dry, oily, and combination skin. Talk to a dermatologist to determine which type you have and which products are right for you!

How will you protect your skin this winter? Do you have any tips and tricks you’d like to share? Be sure to tag us in your Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram posts!