Before you even think about splashing out on serums or stocking up on face masks, let’s cover the basics for surviving the colder months. Winter isn’t just a season; it’s an endurance test for your skin. The combination of biting winds, central heating, and shorter days can leave your complexion looking less radiant and more... well, raw. But don’t worry; there’s a way to keep your glow intact. Your Winter Survival Kit: Keep your skin barrier strong. This is your first line of defence, so be kind to it. Ease up on exfoliation. Scrubbing away too much can leave your skin vulnerable. Stock up on antioxidants. They’re like a superhero cape for your face. Don’t forget Vitamin D supplements. Sunlight is scarce, but you still need that glow. Now, let’s talk about what your skin really needs this winter, tailored to your unique type—because no one-size-fits-all approach will do here. Dry skin often feels tight, with flakiness and irritation making an unwelcome appearance. According to experts, the best thing you can do is avoid soap and overly hot water, which strip away natural oils and leave your skin inflamed. Your Morning Skincare Routine Your morning skincare routine should be simple and easy to do on a regular day, as well as, the days when you are in a rush. We recommend a 4 step formula - cleanse-nourish-hydrate-protect. Cleanser When choosing a cleanser for dry skin, the goal is to remove impurities without stripping away essential moisture. Opt for a cream, milk, or oil-based cleanser with hydrating ingredients like glycerine, ceramides, or aloe vera, which help maintain your skin's natural barrier. Avoid foaming cleansers and those with alcohol or sulphates, as these can exacerbate dryness. A gentle, non-drying formula sets the stage for the rest of your morning skincare routine, ensuring your skin stays soft, comfortable, and ready to take on the day. Toner or Mist (Optional step) Using a toner or mist in your morning routine during winter is an optional, but lovely, step to add a boost of hydration before layering your other products. Look for formulas with soothing ingredients like rose water or hyaluronic acid to calm dryness and lock in moisture. A quick spritz or swipe can also help your skin feel refreshed, especially if central heating has left it feeling tight. Think of it as a gentle wake-up call for your face, not a necessity, but a nice-to-have. Serum Serums are your secret weapon for tackling winter skin woes in the morning, delivering a concentrated dose of hydration and protection before you layer on moisturiser. Look for a formula with hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture or antioxidants like vitamin C to shield your skin from environmental damage. They’re lightweight, fast-absorbing, and an easy way to keep your skin glowing even when the weather is grim. Apply a few drops post-cleansing and watch your complexion thank you. Moisturiser Moisturiser is an essential step in any winter skincare routine, especially for dry skin, as it helps to lock in hydration and create a barrier against the harsh, drying elements. Cold air and indoor heating can quickly strip your skin of its natural moisture, leaving it feeling tight and uncomfortable. A rich, nourishing moisturiser replenishes lost moisture, soothes irritation, and keeps your skin feeling soft and supple throughout the day. It’s your skin’s defence against dehydration, ensuring it stays hydrated and protected no matter how chilly it gets outside. Sun-protecting cream Sun protection is crucial year-round, even in winter, as UV rays can still damage your skin, causing premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. A sun-protecting face cream with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB filters is an essential part of your morning routine, even when it's cold or cloudy. These creams not only shield against harmful rays but also often include hydrating ingredients to keep your skin nourished and protected from both environmental damage and moisture loss. Make SPF a non-negotiable step, ensuring your skin stays safe, healthy, and glowing all winter long. An additional step Your Evening Skincare Routine Your night-time skincare routine is all about repair and hydration, especially if you have dry skin. After a day of exposure to harsh weather and environmental stressors, your skin needs extra care to replenish lost moisture and strengthen its barrier. By using nourishing, targeted products, you can wake up with soft, soothed, and revitalised skin, ready to face the day ahead. Cleanser Start your night-time routine with a gentle, hydrating cleanser to remove makeup, SPF, and the day’s grime without stripping your skin. Look for a formula that nourishes while it cleanses, leaving your skin soft and refreshed, ready for the next steps. Hydrating Toner A hydrating toner is like a drink of water for your skin, balancing and soothing it after cleansing. Opt for one enriched with calming ingredients to prep your skin for maximum absorption of serums and creams. Serum Nighttime is the perfect moment for serums that repair and restore, so choose one packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or peptides. These powerhouses target dryness, fine lines, or dullness, working while you sleep to deliver a plumper, healthier complexion. Night Cream A rich night cream locks in moisture and delivers intense nourishment to your skin as you rest. Look for formulas designed to replenish and repair, so you wake up with a soft, hydrated glow. Facial Oil Finish with a luxurious facial oil to seal in all the goodness from your routine and provide an extra boost of hydration. It’s the ultimate indulgence, leaving your skin smooth, radiant, and perfectly protected against the winter chill.