Winter has its perks – cosy layers, quiet mornings and lots of hot chocolates and babycinos. But for your skin, the season can feel less gentle. Cold air, indoor heating and wild winds can leave skin feeling dry, tight and way out of sorts.
The good news? A few simple shifts in your routine can help your skin feel supported through the colder months.
Here are five friendly, barrier-supportive tips to keep your skin feeling comfortable this winter.
1. Moisturise More Mindfully
In winter, skin tends to lose more moisture – fast. What worked in summer might not be enough to support your barrier now.
- Look for richer creams with ingredients like ceramides, glycerin and shea butter – all known to hydrate and support your skin’s natural defences.
- Try layering: a water-based moisturiser followed by an occlusive (water-free) balm can help seal everything in.
- For especially dry areas like hands or cheeks, apply Barrier NPR+ over your usual moisturiser – it forms an invisible layer that locks in hydration and keeps your skin feeling protected.
Barrier tip: Apply moisturiser on damp skin after cleansing or showering – it helps trap moisture before it evaporates.
2. Choose Gentle, Barrier-Friendly Cleansers
Skin can get a little more reactive in winter – so it’s worth switching to a gentler cleanser if you haven’t already.
- Go for gentle, soap-free formulations that cleanse without disrupting your skin’s delicate microbiome.
- Ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera and copper gluconate are ideal for this time of year as they nourish the skin whilst cleansing, ensuring your skin never feels tight or stripped.
- Avoid harsh surfactants (like sulfates) and drying alcohols – they can make sensitive skin feel even more stressed.
A kind cleanser keeps your microbiome in balance. Our top recommendation for a product that ticks all the above boxes is Every Day, Everywhere: For skin that feels clean, not compromised.™
3. Layer Up
When it’s windy or freezing outside, skin needs a little extra help to stay comfortable.
- Heading to the snow or spending time in icy wind? Before stepping out, smooth on a layer of Barrier NPR+. It acts like a soft, invisible shield to help reduce wind burn and moisture loss in harsh conditions.
- Don’t forget scarves, hats and gloves – your best physical barrier.
- Reapply a barrier balm to exposed areas as needed – especially around delicate areas like the nose, lips and hands.
It’s all about layering – not just clothes, but skincare too!
4. Support Hydration From Within
Hydration isn’t only topical – and in winter, we tend to drink less water without even realising it.
- Keep a glass or bottle nearby and sip often – herbal teas and fruit-infused water count, too!
- Eat water-rich foods like cucumber, oranges and leafy greens. Not only do they hydrate your skin from the inside out, they also boost it with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Consider using a humidifier indoors – heating can dry out the air (and your skin). A bit of added humidity can go a long way.
When you hydrate well from within, your skin has more resources to stay calm and resilient.
5. SPF Is Still Essential
Cooler days don’t mean less sun. In fact, UV rays can reflect off bright surfaces like snow, amplifying exposure.
- Use SPF 30 or higher every day, even when it’s cloudy.
- Sensitive skin? Opt for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide. They are especially kind to sensitive or barrier-challenged skin.
- Reapply if you’re outdoors for long periods – especially if you're skiing or in other challenging winter conditions.
A well-protected barrier is a friendly barrier – no matter the season.
A Few More Friendly Tips
- Skip the long, hot showers (tempting, we know). Lukewarm water is gentler on your skin barrier, helping your skin hold onto its natural oils.
- For an overnight boost, try a moisturiser-and-balm combo. Let your moisturiser sink in then layer a little Barrier NPR+ over the top. Wake up with baby soft skin.
Winter can be tough on skin – but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be. Focus on hydration, barrier care and a little extra kindness. Your skin will thank you for it.
Salvida® – friendly skin