Well, that cold snap certainly made itself at home! If this weekend had you reaching for a cozy sweater and an extra blanket, your skin may be asking for another layer, too. With colder air outside and the heat running indoors, it’s a good time to give our skincare routines a little seasonal attention—before tight cheeks, dry hands, and chapped lips get too comfortable. The cats, meanwhile, have already perfected their winter routine: claim the warmest blanket and refuse to move.

I love the cozy side of colder weather: warm sweaters, a hot cup of coffee, and cats who suddenly decide my lap is the most desirable real estate in the house.  What I don’t love? Tight cheeks, itchy legs, chapped lips, and hands that seem to need moisturizer approximately every eleven minutes. Before your skin starts filing complaints, let’s talk about a few simple ways to help it stay comfortable through winter.

Why does winter make skin so cranky?

Cold outdoor air and heated indoor air often mean lower humidity. That dry environment can make it harder for skin to hold on to moisture.

Your skin’s outer layer acts as a protective barrier, helping keep moisture in and irritants out. When that barrier becomes dry or disrupted, skin can feel tight, rough, flaky, or itchy. Dryness can also make fine lines look more noticeable.

Add frequent handwashing, harsh cleansers, and long, hot showers, and your skin may be working overtime just to stay comfortable.

The goal is to give that hardworking barrier a little support.

Start with a cleanser that treats your skin kindly

If your face feels tight after washing, pay attention. You want to remove makeup and everyday buildup while leaving your skin comfortable.

My winter pick from the Best Pure Skin Care line is Limu Facial Cleanser. This non-foaming formula is designed for dry and dehydrated skin, with aloe vera, marine algae, and gentle cleansing ingredients.

It’s a good option to consider when your skin needs a softer approach to cleansing. It does contain orange essential oil, so fragrance-sensitive skin may do better with a fragrance-free alternative.

And use warm water. Your face doesn’t need the same temperature you use to cook pasta.

Make moisturizer a daily habit

Moisturizer earns its place in your winter routine by helping skin retain moisture and feel softer. My winter moisturizer pick is Restorative Marine Moisturizer. Formulated for dry and dehydrated skin, it combines hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and sodium hyaluronate with soybean oil and dimethicone to help soften skin and reduce moisture loss.

Think of it as a cozy layer for your face.

Apply moisturizer after cleansing while your skin is still slightly damp. Remember your neck and chest, too, and give your body the same attention after bathing.

For very dry or reactive skin, a simple, fragrance-free cream or ointment may be a better fit. The best choice is the one your skin tolerates and that you’ll use consistently.

Turn down the shower temperature

I understand the appeal of a long, steaming shower when it’s cold outside. Unfortunately, that comforting heat can leave dry skin feeling worse.

Keep showers brief, use warm water, and gently pat yourself dry. Follow with moisturizer before your skin has dried completely.

Keep hand cream beside the sink, too. Applying it after washing is much easier to remember when the bottle is looking right at you.

Be careful with the “scrub it off” approach

Flaky skin can make you want to reach for a scrub immediately. But if your skin is already tight, irritated, or uncomfortable, more exfoliation may add to the problem.

Give rough scrubs, strong peels, and other irritating treatments a pause while your skin settles down. Follow product directions and let your skin’s response guide how often you exfoliate.

Those flakes are not an invitation to sand your face.

Help your indoor air—and keep your sunscreen

A humidifier can add moisture to dry indoor air, especially in a bedroom. Clean it regularly according to its instructions.

And keep sunscreen in your daytime routine. Cold weather doesn’t switch off UV exposure. Choose broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher for exposed skin, along with protective clothing and shade.

Your sunscreen hasn’t earned a winter vacation.

Know when your skin needs more help

Persistent itching, painful cracks, bleeding, or patches that won’t improve deserve medical attention. Dryness can sometimes be connected to eczema or another condition that needs specific treatment.

If even a gentle moisturizer burns or stings, or your skin stays uncomfortable despite consistent care, check with a dermatologist.

You don’t have to spend the season trying one bottle after another and hoping for the best.

Give your hands and lips some love

Hands get washed, exposed to cold air, and put to work all day. They deserve a little extra care. Wear gloves outside, moisturize after washing, and change out of wet gloves or clothing promptly. And don’t forget your lips! FarmHouse Fresh lip masques are a lovely way to give them a little extra attention during your winter skincare routine. Use your favorite according to its directions, whether you’re settling in for an evening of self-care or getting ready for the day.

Your face gets serums, creams, and all the attention. Your lips would like to be included in the pampering, please.

Keep a comfortable, non-irritating lip balm handy throughout the day, too. If your lips are cracked or irritated, choose a simple fragrance-free option such as plain petroleum jelly, and skip anything that stings or tingles. Resist licking your lips—even though that’s usually the first thing we do when they feel dry!

A little preparation goes a long way

You don’t need to replace your entire skincare collection because the temperature drops. Start with gentle cleansing, regular moisturizing, and a few practical habits that protect your skin.

For dry winter facial skin, Limu Facial Cleanser and Restorative Marine Moisturizer are two options I’d consider from my Best Pure Skin Care line.

If you’re unsure what fits your skin, reach out. I’m happy to help you think through your routine and explore your options.

Winter will bring enough things to manage. Let’s get your skin comfortable so you can focus on the cozy parts.

Preferably with a warm drink and a cat who allows you to move occasionally.

— Judi Mach, LMT
Best Pure Skin Care