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Winter can be tough on skin. Cold temperatures, wind, indoor heating and lower humidity levels can all lead to dry, tight, dehydrated and reactive skin. Over the years, I’ve refined a simple but effective winter skincare routine that supports the skin barrier, boosts hydration and keeps my skin comfortable all day and night.
This post breaks down my daytime and nighttime winter skincare routines, using gentle, nourishing products that work especially well if your skin is dry, sensitive or prone to dehydration.
Daytime Winter Skincare Routine (Cold Weather AM Routine)
In winter, my daytime skincare routine focuses on hydration, barrier protection and comfort under makeup. I avoid anything stripping or overly active and prioritise layers that keep skin calm throughout the day.
1. Gentle Cleanser (AM)
I start with a gentle, non-foaming cleanser. In cold weather, over-cleansing can worsen dehydration and sensitivity.
Look for:
- Light cleansing waters
- Cream or lotion cleansers
- No strong surfactants
- Fragrance-free or very low fragrance
My recommendations
2. Hydrating Toner or Essence
This step adds an immediate hit of hydration and helps prep the skin for serums.
Key ingredients to look for:
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Panthenol
- Aloe vera
My Recommendation
3. Hydrating Serum
A hydrating serum is essential in winter. I favour lightweight, water-based formulas that deeply hydrate without feeling heavy under moisturiser or makeup.
Best winter serum ingredients:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Polyglutamic acid
- Beta-glucan
- Niacinamide (low percentage)
My recommendation
4. Barrier-Repair Moisturiser
In cold weather, moisturiser becomes the most important step. I choose a barrier-supporting moisturiser that locks in hydration and protects against environmental stress, but isn’t too heavy
Look for:
- Ceramides
- Squalane
- Shea butter
My Recommendations:
5. SPF (Yes, Even in Winter)
A broad-spectrum SPF is still essential in winter, especially for everyday protection and preventing sensitivity flare-ups.
My Recommendations
Hydrating Primer for Makeup
As an extra step, I like to use a glowy, hydrating primer under foundation, particularly if I am using a matte formula. My current favourite trick is to apply a light layer of the Balm from the REESON Highlighter Duo* before starting my makeup.
Nighttime Winter Skincare Routine (Cold Weather PM Routine)
At night, my winter skincare routine is all about repair, nourishment and recovery. This is when I allow myself slightly richer textures and more comforting formulas.
1. Gentle Cleanse (PM)
In the evening, I cleanse properly to remove makeup, SPF and daily impurities.
- First cleanse: balm or oil cleanser
- Second cleanse: gentle cream cleanser
Avoid foaming cleansers if your skin feels dry or reactive.
My Recommendations
2. Hydrating Toner or Essence
I repeat my hydrating toner step at night to replenish moisture lost throughout the day.
My Recommendations
3. Soothing or Hydrating Serum
At night, I choose soothing, barrier-repair serums rather than strong actives.
Great winter night serum ingredients:
- Ceramides
- Peptides
- Centella asiatica
- Panthenol
My Recommendations
4. Rich Night Cream or Moisturiser
A richer night cream helps support skin repair while you sleep.
Ideal winter night moisturiser ingredients:
- Ceramides
- Shea butter
- Fatty acids
- Squalane
My Recommendations
5. Facial Oil or Overnight Mask
On very cold nights or when my skin feels tight and reactive, I add:
- A few drops of facial oil, or
- An overnight hydrating mask
This step helps prevent moisture loss overnight and leaves skin feeling calm and comfortable by morning.
My Recommendations
Key Tips for Winter Skincare
- Protect the skin barrier above all else
- Avoid over-exfoliating in cold weather
- Use lukewarm water, not hot
- Layer hydration rather than relying on one heavy product
Final Thoughts
A good winter skincare routine doesn’t need to be complicated. By focusing on hydration, barrier repair and gentle formulas, you can keep skin comfortable, glowing and resilient throughout the colder months.
If your skin feels dry, tight or reactive in winter, simplifying your routine and switching to more nourishing textures can make all the difference.
READ: Skincare Products I Use When My Skin Feels Tight, Dry or Reactive.
