5 Essential Winter Skincare Tips for Combatting Dry, Itchy Skin

As the cold winter months roll in, many of us notice a change in how our skin feels. The dry, itchy skin we experience isn’t just in our heads. But fear not! With the right winter skincare routine and products, you can keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing all season long.

Why does winter dry out your skin?

Cold weather has less humidity, which leads to a drier environment. This dryness dehydrates your skin, causing it to lose its natural oils and making it susceptible to flakiness and irritation. Add to that the drying effects of indoor heating and hot showers, and you’ve got a recipe for winter skin woes.

Why adjust your skincare routine in winter?

During the winter, our skin needs extra love and care.

A winter skincare routine should focus on replenishing moisture, protecting the skin barrier, and addressing the specific challenges posed by colder weather. Switching to more hydrating products and adopting gentler skin care practices are key to preventing dryness and irritation.

How to keep your skin hydrated

Here are some tried-and-true tips to keep your skin hydrated and healthy:

• Add hydrating products: Incorporate a hydrating serum into your daily routine. Follow it up with a moisturizer that locks in hydration.
• Hydrate from within: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support your skin’s hydration. A small portable humidifier by your bed can also help maintain moisture levels in your home.
• Exfoliate gently: Exfoliate 1-2 times a week using a gentle product. This removes dead skin cells, allowing hydrating products to penetrate better.
• Use a hydrating mask: Apply a hydrating mask 2-3 times a week at night. This provides an extra boost of hydration for your skin.
• Protect against the elements: If you love the outdoors, protect your skin with a product that can act as a shield against harsh winter conditions.

Winter skincare don’ts

• Avoid hot showers, as they can strip your skin of natural oils.
• Don’t skip moisturizing, even if your skin feels less dry on certain days.
• Resist the temptation to over-exfoliate, which can lead to sensitive skin and irritation.

Recommended winter skincare products

Not quite sure where to start?

Here are some Ultraceuticals products our esthetcians love:

• B2 Serum: Hydrates and locks in moisture.
• DNA Night Cream: Rich in fatty acids, perfect for overnight hydration.
• Gentle Gel Exfoliant: Gently exfoliates without stripping moisture.
• B2 Mask or Replenishing Mask: For extra hydration boosts.

Skincare services to consider in winter

What else can you do to keep your healthy glow? Our artists have found these skincare treatments most effective.

• Dermaplaning: Removes dead skin cells and enhances product absorption.
• Refine and Hydrate Facial: Replenishes your skin barrier and restores hydration.

We hope these winter skincare tips help you feel confident and cared for as you embrace the season!

A special thank you to Jordyn, Edina Studio Esthetician, and Anna, Wayzata Legacy Esthetician, for sharing their expertise and thoughtful recommendations for winter skincare. Their professional insights bring valuable perspectives to keeping skin nourished and radiant during the colder months.