Winter Skincare Tips for Soft and Hydrated Skin

If you live in the Canada (or any other place that is cold in winter) you’ve probably noticed that winter has arrived in full force, bringing cold temperatures and dry air. Cold weather can be harsh on your skin, causing dryness, irritation, and even flare-ups of conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Here are my top tips to keep your skin hydrated and healthy all winter long.

1. Lock in Moisture with the Right Products

Winter calls for richer, more nourishing moisturizers. I rely on oil-based products, like body oils, butters, and salves, to keep my skin soft and supple.

DIY Winter Hydration Oil

This lightweight yet deeply hydrating oil blend absorbs quickly and helps combat dryness caused by winter weather.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp jojoba oil (mimics skin’s natural sebum, great for all skin types)
• 2 tbsp sweet almond oil (deeply moisturizing, rich in vitamins A & E)
• 1 tbsp rosehip oil (packed with antioxidants and helps repair dry skin)
• 1 tbsp argan oil (lightweight and deeply nourishing)
• 5 drops lavender essential oil (calming and soothing for dry skin)
• 5 drops frankincense essential oil (supports skin elasticity and hydration)
• 5 drops chamomile essential oil (reduces irritation and redness)

Instructions:

1. In a small glass dropper bottle, combine all the carrier oils.
2. Add the essential oils and gently shake to blend.
3. Store in a cool, dark place to preserve freshness.

How to Use:

• Apply a few drops to damp skin after a shower to lock in moisture.
• Use it as a facial oil before bed for extra hydration.
• Mix a few drops into your body lotion for an added moisture boost.

2. Hydrate from Within

During winter, we tend to reach for warm beverages like coffee and tea, often forgetting to drink enough water. Staying well-hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy skin, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.

3. Shield Your Skin from the Elements

Bundle up! Wearing scarves, gloves, and hats helps protect your skin from harsh winds and freezing temperatures. If your skin is extra sensitive, opt for soft fabrics instead of wool to avoid irritation.

4. Keep the Air Moist

Indoor heating systems suck moisture from the air, which can dry out your skin. A humidifier helps restore moisture in your home, preventing your skin from becoming parched. I always run a humidifier in the bedroom at night—it not only benefits the skin but also keeps nasal passages moist, which can help strengthen your immune system. Bonus: It’s a lifesaver if you’re battling a cold or congestion!

5. Choose Gentle Skincare

Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, worsening dryness. Choose a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to help maintain your skin’s moisture balance. If your skin feels extra dry, consider oil cleansing to help lock in hydration.

6. Rethink Your Shower Routine

While a steamy shower might sound tempting on a cold day, hot water can actually strip away your skin’s natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated. Opt for lukewarm water instead, and keep your showers short. Pro tip: Applying a body oil before showering can help trap in moisture—just be careful to avoid slipping!

7. Enhance Your Bath Time

Love a good soak? Add 1–2 tablespoons of bath oil to your tub for extra hydration. Oils like argan, coconut, jojoba, and apricot seed are great choices. You can also mix in a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender, chamomile, ylang-ylang, or tangerine, to create a spa-like experience. Oatmeal and milk baths are another excellent way to soothe dry, itchy skin. Have you ever tried a bath tea?

8. Be Mindful of Overheating

Layer your clothing to stay cozy, but avoid overheating. Overheated indoor environments can dry out your skin. If you’re prone to dryness, be mindful of the fabrics you wear—some materials, like wool, can be irritating.

9. Don’t Forget Your Lips

Dry, chapped lips are a common winter woe. Use a high-quality lip balm with moisturizing ingredients like beeswax or shea butter to keep them soft and smooth.

10. Protect Your Skin with SPF

Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you can forget about sun protection. The sun’s UV rays can still cause damage in winter, so apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen to exposed areas before heading outside. For extra skin protection and healing, apply a vitamin C serum in the morning before your sunscreen.

11. Refresh Your Skin with Exfoliation

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, but too much can make dryness worse. Stick to a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week to keep your skin smooth without stripping away moisture.

12. Pamper Your Skin with Hydrating Masks

Treat your skin to a hydrating face mask once a week to replenish moisture and nourishment. Some of my favorite DIY masks include avocado + honey and yogurt + oatmeal—simple, natural, and incredibly effective!

13. Apply Moisturizer at the Right Time

Applying moisturizer while your skin is still damp helps lock in hydration. Make sure to use a rich, emollient cream as part of your post-shower and bedtime routine.

Here’s a simple and nourishing handmade moisturizer recipe to complement your winter skincare routine:

DIY Winter Moisturizer

This rich and creamy moisturizer will keep your skin hydrated and soft throughout the colder months.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup shea butter
• ¼ cup coconut oil (or substitute jojoba/almond oil for a lighter feel)
• 2 tbsp beeswax pellets (for a thicker consistency)
• 1 tbsp vitamin E oil (natural preservative and skin healer)
• 10–15 drops essential oil (lavender, chamomile, or frankincense for soothing benefits)

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl over simmering water), melt the shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax together, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
3. Stir in vitamin E oil and essential oils of your choice.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly until it starts to solidify, then whip with a hand mixer for a fluffy texture.
5. Transfer to a clean, airtight jar and store in a cool, dry place.

How to Use:

Apply a small amount to damp skin after a shower or before bedtime for deep hydration.

Winter may be tough on your skin, but with these simple skincare habits, you can keep dryness at bay and enjoy healthy, glowing skin all season long! Have a favorite winter skincare tip? Let me know in the comments!