There is nothing worse than have dry, flakey skin during the winter months. Having a solid winter skincare routine in place is the key to having glowing skin year-round. There are simple changes you need to make to your skincare routine to help adjust to the changes of the season and give your skin exactly what it needs.

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The best winter skincare routine to follow for glowing skin.

It’s important to note that not everyone is the same and what works for my skin might not work the same for yours. But in general, these are some pretty good guidelines to follow during the winter months when your skin needs a some extra TLC.

Use a gentle cleanser.

Using a gentle cleanser is a good place to start a winter skincare routine. Use a mild cleanser that won’t exacerbate dryness. Opt for cream or oil-based cleansers that provide a soothing, hydrating cleanse without compromising your skin’s natural oils.Avoid hot water, as it can be harsh on your skin, and opt for lukewarm water instead to maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance. Gentle cleansing helps prepare your skin to absorb the nourishing products that follow in your routine, ensuring your skin stays soft and supple, even during the harshest winter months.RELATED: 7 Reasons Why You Might Have Tight Feeling Skin.

Make sure to exfoliate.

Although it might be winter and you might feel the need to protect your skin more, exfoliation is still important. Make sure to exfoliate with caution though, because the cold, dry air tends to make your skin more sensitive, so it’s wise to reduce the frequency of exfoliation to 1-2 times a week.Choose a mild exfoliant with ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to gently remove dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion. Exfoliating during winter helps your skin absorb other skincare products more effectively by ensuring they penetrate the skin’s surface, but overdoing it can lead to irritation or dryness.

Moisturize, moisturize and moisturize some more.

Hydration is the most important part of any winter skincare routine. During the cold months, your skin is more susceptible to becoming parched and losing moisture. Try using a rich, hydrating moisturizer in your regimen to combat winter dryness.Look for products that have skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, or ceramides, which work to lock in moisture, replenish lost hydration, and provide a protective barrier against the elements. This step not only helps prevent dry, flaky skin but also leaves your complexion feeling soft and resilient in the face of winter\’s challenges.

4. Always wear sunscreen.

Sunscreen is a year-round essential , despite the misconception that it\’s only necessary during the summertime. Even in the colder months, harmful UV rays can penetrate cloud cover and reflect off snow, increasing the risk of sun damage to your skin. Opt for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to ensure you\’re adequately protected.\n\n\n\nApplying sunscreen daily, especially to exposed areas like your face, hands, and neck, can safeguard your skin against premature aging, dark spots, and even skin cancer. By making sunscreen a consistent part of your winter regimen, you\’re not only preventing sun-related damage but also helping your skin maintain its health, youthfulness, and natural radiance throughout the season.RELATED: The Best Tips In Choosing Your SPF.

Choose a serum that’s right for you.

Serums are a vital addition to your winter skincare routine, giving you targeted solutions for specific skin concerns. Serums provide a concentrated dose of active ingredients to address these issues effectively. Adding the right serum into your regimen can make a noticeable difference in combating the seasonal effects on your skin, leaving it looking healthy, glowing, and well-nourished.Serums you can try:

• • Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Hydrates and retains moisture, combating dryness.

• • Vitamin C Serum: Brightens the complexion and protects against environmental damage.

• • Niacinamide Serum: Reduces redness, inflammation, and helps with blemishes.

• • Retinol Serum: Promotes skin cell turnover, improving texture and fine lines.

• • Peptide Serum: Supports collagen production for firmness and elasticity.

• • Antioxidant Serum: Shields against free radicals and oxidative stress.

• • Hemp Seed Oil Serum: Soothes and nourishes dry or sensitive skin.

• • Glycolic Acid Serum: Exfoliates, promoting a more radiant complexion.

• • Vitamin E Serum: Enhances skin\’s natural moisture barrier and provides antioxidant protection.

• • Aloe Vera Serum: Calms and soothes irritated or red skin.

Use hydrating face masks.

Hydrating masks are great for reviving and rejuvenating your skin during the winter months. These masks give you a much-needed dose of hydration and nourishment. Formulated with ingredients like aloe vera, honey, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid, they deliver a surge of moisture and help to lock it in.Using a hydrating mask once or twice a week can leave your skin feeling refreshed, plumped, and radiant. It\’s an excellent addition to your winter skincare routine, offering that extra boost of moisture and relief your skin craves when facing the harsh winter elements.RELATED: The 9 Best DIY Face Mask Recipes.

Treat your lips.

Your lips are often overlooked when it comes to a good winter skincare routine. The delicate skin on our lips are particularly prone to dryness and chapping during the colder months due to the lack of oil glands in this area.To keep your lips soft and moisturized, regularly apply a nourishing lip balm containing ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, or coconut oil. Exfoliating your lips gently with a sugar scrub can remove flaky skin and improve the absorption of lip balms. Lip masks are also a great way to ensure your lips stay chap free!

Use a humidifier to combat winter dryness.

Now, this little well-kept secret has been my life saver for years – humidifier! Using a humidifier is a game-changer for maintaining healthy and hydrated skin. During the winter, indoor heating systems tend to create a dry atmosphere that can further exacerbate skin dryness.A humidifier reintroduces much-needed moisture into the air, helping to balance the indoor environment and prevent excessive moisture loss from your skin. This extra moisture can make a noticeable difference in combating the harsh effects of winter, keeping your skin supple, and relieving issues like dryness, itchiness, or flakiness.RELATED: What are the benefits of a lip mask and how to use it.

Conclusion.

Winter can be tough on your skin, but with the perfect winter skincare routine, you can keep it hydrated, healthy, and glowing all season long. Remember to adjust your routine as needed based on your skin type and specific concerns.Happy Hydrating,Your Wellness Warrior!