How to Get Your Skin Ready For Winter: A Beginner’s Guide to Seasonal Skincare
Cold, dry winter air can cause your skin to lose up to 25% of its ability to retain hydration during the colder months. Between the dry, frigid air outside and the blasting heat inside, your skin can feel like it’s caught in a moisture-depriving tug-of-war. So, as the seasons change, it’s crucial to adjust your skincare routine to keep your skin healthy and glowing—the same way you adjust your wardrobe.
Before we get into it, let’s take a moment to discuss the skin barrier.
The skin barrier, also known as the stratum corneum, is your skin's first line of defense against environmental aggressors. Composed of skin cells (corneocytes) held together by lipids, this outermost layer functions like a brick-and-mortar wall. It prevents water loss from within the body and shields the skin from irritants, allergens, and pathogens. During the winter, the skin barrier faces unique challenges that can compromise its function.
Decreased humidity, harsh winds, cold weather, and the fluctuations between outdoor cold temperatures and indoor centrally heated environments, along with frequent hot showers and the continual use of products too harsh for winter, are all major culprits in weakening the skin barrier during this time of year.
How Can You Identify the Signs of a Compromised Barrier?
Persistent dryness or flakiness
Increased sensitivity to skincare products
Redness and irritation
A tight or itchy feeling, especially after cleansing
More pronounced fine lines (due to dehydration)
Worsening of skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis
Tips to navigating winter skincare, complete with our favourite Alumier product recommendations:
SPF. Always.
While the summer heat might be long gone, your skin still needs protection from UV rays, which are present year-round. UVA rays, in particular, penetrate clouds and glass, contributing to premature aging and skin damage even on overcast winter days. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is a non-negotiable step in any winter skincare routine.
AlumierMD’s Sheer Hydration Broad Spectrum SPF 40 is a lightweight yet hydrating option that protects without feeling heavy on the skin. It’s perfect for daily use, even in the winter, when we often forget the importance of sun protection.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!
Dry skin is one of the most common winter skincare complaints. Cold air and low humidity levels zap the skin of moisture, while central heating further exacerbates dryness. Incorporating hydrating products that replenish and lock in moisture is key.
Look for moisturizers containing humectants like hyaluronic acid, which draw water into the skin, and (if your skin tolerates them) emollients like shea butter or ceramides, which help repair and strengthen the skin’s barrier.
AlumierMD’s HydraRich Moisturizer is a winter must-have. Packed with emollients and antioxidants, it provides intense hydration while supporting the skin barrier. For those with very dry or sensitive skin, applying a hydrating serum like AlumierMD’s Ultimate Boost Serum underneath your moisturizer can offer an extra layer of hydration.
Soothe Redness and Irritation.
Harsh winds and cold temperatures can trigger sensitive skin, leaving it looking red, inflamed, and uncomfortable. Additionally, skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea are particularly susceptible to flare-ups due to the lack of moisture in the air and the shift in weather conditions. To calm and soothe the skin, look for products containing ingredients like niacinamide, which helps reduce redness and strengthens the skin’s barrier, or calming botanicals like aloe vera and chamomile. a focus on gentle, fragrance-free skincare products that won’t further disrupt the skin's microbiome is essential—ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and colloidal oatmeal can be incredibly soothing and help reduce itching and flaking.
For a targeted solution, try AlumierMD’s Calm-R Serum, which is specifically formulated to reduce redness and inflammation. Pairing it with a calming moisturizer can further protect and soothe sensitive skin during the winter months. AlumierMD’s HydraCalm Moisturizer is an excellent choice. It’s designed to soothe irritation while delivering hydration, making it ideal for sensitive, reactive skin.
Exfoliate, But Oh So Gently.
Exfoliation is important year-round, but winter calls for a gentler approach. Over-exfoliating during the colder months can compromise the skin’s barrier, exacerbating dryness and irritation. Opt for mild exfoliants containing lactic acid or enzymes, which help remove dead skin cells without stripping moisture.
A gentle option like AlumierMD’s Bright & Clear Solution can be used to maintain a smooth, glowing complexion while preventing clogged pores. Remember to follow up with a rich moisturizer to replenish hydration after exfoliating.
How to Structure A Simple Winter Skincare Routine:
Morning:
Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping the skin of essential oils—Alumier’s HydraBoost is a great all-around option.
Serum: Apply a hydrating or redness-reducing serum, like AlumierMD’s Ultimate Boost or Calm-R Serum.
Moisturizer: If you tend to struggle with drier skin, choose a rich, emollient formula, such as Alumier’s HydraRich, to lock in hydration. If your skin is naturally on the oilier side, a lighter formula, such as HydraLight should do the trick.
SPF: Don’t skip sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Alumier’s broad selection of SPF options not only protect from damaging UV rays but also provides oil control, and varying degrees of gently hydration.
Evening:
Cleanser: Use the same gentle, non-stripping cleanser to remove impurities without disrupting your skin’s natural barrier.
Exfoliation: Gently exfoliate 1–2 times per week with a mild, non-abrasive exfoliant that brightens and refines the skin—such as Alumier’s Bright and Clear Solution.
Serum: You can repeat your morning serum in the evening to continue hydrating your skin overnight, or switch to a more an alternative depending on your skin needs and concerns.
Moisturizer: Finish with your preferred moisturizer to replenish and lock in hydration while you sleep. If your skin feels drier at night, consider a richer formula, or stick with your morning choice if it’s working well.