The minute the temperature dips and I crank up the heating, I can feel my skin protesting. Dry patches, tightness, and that dull, lacklustre look seem to arrive overnight. Winter in the UK doesn’t exactly do our skin any favours – icy winds outside and cosy (but drying) central heating inside can leave skin crying out for hydration. Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make a world of difference. So, if your skin feels like it’s on a winter strike, let me share some of my favourite tips that actually work.

Why Winter Skincare is Different

My skin simply doesn’t behave the same way in winter as it does in spring or summer. Cold weather means less moisture in the air, which leads to increased transepidermal water loss (that’s just a fancy way of saying your skin loses water more quickly). Add in hot showers, radiators blasting dry heat, and less exposure to natural sunlight, and you’ve got the perfect storm for dryness, irritation, and even sensitivity. This is why I always adjust my skincare routine to suit the season – what works for me in July definitely doesn’t cut it in January.

1. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser

In summer, I sometimes get away with foaming cleansers, but in winter they’re fare too harsh for my skin. I always opt for a cream or oil-based cleanser that removes makeup and impurities without stripping away natural oils. My skin feels softer and calmer as a result. If you’ve noticed that your face feels tight after cleansing, that’s a sign your cleanser might be too strong. Making this simple switch can set the foundation for the rest of your winter skincare routine.

2. Layer Your Hydration

Just like layering jumpers keeps me warm, layering skincare keeps my skin hydrated. I start with a hydrating toner or essence, followed by a serum packed with hyaluronic acid or glycerin. Then I lock it all in with a nourishing moisturiser. This layered approach helps my skin stay plump and comfortable throughout the day. I’ve found that spritzing a facial mist in between steps also boosts hydration – a small extra step, but one that really pays off.

3. Don’t Skip SPF

It’s easy to think sunscreen is just for summer, but harmful UV rays don’t disappear when the sun hides behind the clouds. In fact, UV damage can be even sneakier in winter because we forget about it. I always apply an SPF of at least 30 in the morning, even on grey days – my future self will thank me for it. Bonus tip: if you enjoy winter walks or skiing trips, remember that snow reflects sunlight, which means double the exposure.

4. Use a Richer Moisturiser

In summer, lightweight gels are perfect, but in winter I need something more substantial. I usually reach for a cream with ceramides, shea butter, or squalane – ingredients that strengthen the skin barrier and lock in hydration. This makes a massive difference to how soft and calm my skin feels. I also look for products with niacinamide, which soothes redness and supports the skin barrier.

5. Treat Your Lips and Hands

Chapped lips and cracked hands are almost inevitable in the colder months. I keep a nourishing lip balm in my bag and apply it throughout the day, especially before heading outdoors. My favourite trick is applying a thick layer of balm at night, almost like a lip mask. For my hands, I use a rich hand cream after every wash. If they’re really suffering, I’ll pop on cotton gloves overnight after applying cream – it sounds a bit over the top, but my hands feel brand new in the morning.

6. Invest in a Humidifer

Central heating is notorious for sucking moisture from the air – and my skin definitely feels it. Using a humidifier in my bedroom adds hydration back into the environment, which makes my skin feel less parched in the morning. If you don’t fancy buying a humidifier, even leaving a bowl of water near the radiator can help a little. It’s one of those underrated skincare hacks that really pays off over time.

7. Exfoliate (But Don’t Overdo It)

Dead skin cells can build up more quickly in winter, making skin look dull and flaky. I exfoliate once or twice a week with a gentle chemical exfoliant, such as lactic acid, to keep my skin smooth and helps serums absorb better. The key here is balance – too much exfoliation in winter can actually damage the skin barrier and make dryness worse. I stay away from harsh scrubs, as they can irritate already-sensitive winter skin.

8. Nourish From the Inside

Skincare isn’t just about what I put on my face. I also make an effort to drink plenty of water, even though I don’t feel as thirsty in cold weather. Herbal teas are a great way to stay hydrated while keeping cosy. Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, helps keep my skin supple and nourished from within. I also notice a difference when I up my intake of vitamin C-rich foods, like citrus fruits and peppers, which support collagen production and brighten dull winter skin.

9. Shorten Hot Showers

I love a steamy shower when it’s freezing outside, but my skin definitely doesn’t. Hot water strips away natural oils, leaving it feeling tight and uncomfortable. I try to keep my showers warm rather than piping hot, and I don’t linger for too long. Switching to a moisturing shower gel or oil also makes a big difference. Afterwards, I always apply body lotion or cream while my skin is still slightly damp – it locks in the moisture beautifully.

10. Overnight Masks Are Your Friend

When my skin feels particularly dry, I use an overnight hydrating mask instead of my regular night creams. It’s like a big drink of water for my face, and I always wake up looking fresher and more radiant. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are perfect for this. If I’m dealing with irritation or redness, I’ll look for soothing ingredients like centella asiatica or oat extract.

11. Be Gentle With Makeup

Winter is when my skin is most sensitive, so I try to choose makeup products that work with my skincare, not against it. A hydrating primer helps create a smooth base, and I avoid matte foundations that can accentuate dryness. Cream blushes and highlighters give me a healthy glow without making my skin look cakey. And of course, I always double cleanse at night to remove every trace without stripping my skin.

12. Protect Skin Outdoors

Wind, rain, and cold air can be tough on exposed skin. I like to apply a protective balm or barrier cream to areas like my cheeks before heading outside, especially on particularly blustery days. A scarf pulled up high also helps shield my skin from the elements.

Final Thoughts

Winter skincare doesn’t have to be complicated – it’s really about making a few smart swaps and being consistent. Once I started paying attention to hydration, using richer products, and protecting my skin barrier, the difference was huge. My skin no longer feels like sandpaper by January, and I can actually enjoy that rosy, winter glow instead of hiding behind layers of makeup.

So, if you’re battling dry, irritated skin this season, give some of these tips a go. Trust me, your skin will thank you – and you’ll feel so much more comfortable facing those chilly mornings with a hydrated, happy complexion. Grab your favourite moisturiser, make yourself a hot cuppa, and start giving your skin the love it deserves this winter.