Cold weather can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving it dry, flaky, and irritated. To keep your complexion healthy and hydrated during the winter months, it’s important to adjust your skincare routine. Here are the products you should avoid and what to use instead, as recommended by dermatologists and skincare experts:
1. Foaming Cleansers
- Why to Avoid: Foaming cleansers often contain sulfates, which can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
- What to Use Instead: Opt for a creamy, hydrating cleanser like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (15)or∗LaRoche−PosayTolerianeHydratingGentleCleanser∗(15)or∗LaRoche−PosayTolerianeHydratingGentleCleanser∗(17).
2. Alcohol-Based Toners
- Why to Avoid: Alcohol can be extremely drying, especially in cold weather when your skin is already prone to dehydration.
- What to Use Instead: Switch to a hydrating toner with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, such as Thayers Witch Hazel Toner (11)or∗FreshRoseDeepHydrationToner∗(11)or∗FreshRoseDeepHydrationToner∗(42).
3. Heavy Exfoliants
- Why to Avoid: Over-exfoliating can damage your skin’s moisture barrier, making it more susceptible to dryness and irritation.
- What to Use Instead: Use a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week, like Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant (34)or∗FirstAidBeautyFacialRadiancePads∗(34)or∗FirstAidBeautyFacialRadiancePads∗(36).
4. Lightweight Moisturizers
- Why to Avoid: Lightweight moisturizers may not provide enough hydration to combat the harsh effects of cold weather.
- What to Use Instead: Choose a richer, more emollient moisturizer, such as Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream (34)or∗Dr.Jart+CeramidinCream∗(34)or∗Dr.Jart+CeramidinCream∗(48).
5. Matte Makeup Products
- Why to Avoid: Matte foundations and powders can emphasize dry patches and make your skin look flaky.
- What to Use Instead: Opt for hydrating, dewy-finish products like Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 (48)or∗GlossierPerfectingSkinTint∗(48)or∗GlossierPerfectingSkinTint∗(26).
6. Fragranced Products
- Why to Avoid: Fragrances can be irritating, especially when your skin is already sensitive from the cold.
- What to Use Instead: Choose fragrance-free products, such as Vanicream Moisturizing Cream (13)or∗AveenoCalm+RestoreOatGelMoisturizer∗(13)or∗AveenoCalm+RestoreOatGelMoisturizer∗(20).
7. Hot Water
- Why to Avoid: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
- What to Use Instead: Wash your face with lukewarm water and limit shower time to prevent moisture loss.
Pro Tips for Cold Weather Skincare
- Layer Your Products: Use a hydrating serum under your moisturizer for added hydration.
- Don’t Forget SPF: Even in winter, UV rays can damage your skin. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
- Humidify Your Space: A humidifier can help maintain moisture levels in your home, preventing your skin from drying out.
