As temps drop, so do humidity levels. Dry winter air strips moisture from the skin cells. Combined with freezing wind and cranking up the thermostat, the skin is at a much higher risk for dryness, flakes, and redness. Winter elements deplete the skin's protective barrier, making it much harder to remain hydrated. Using the right products usually makes a world of difference. 

Use the following pointers to ensure your skin stays moisturized, smooth, and soft all season long. 

Tip #1: Switch Your Soap

 

Soaps that strip the natural oils from your skin and leave you with that squeaky clean feeling aren't helping alleviate dry skin. During winter, consider using a soothing fragrance-free facial cleanser. Be on the lookout for a face cleanser made with hydrating ingredients that you’d find in moisturizers like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin, botanical oils plant-based butters. 

The Gentle Skin Cleanser from Cetaphil still deeply cleans the face- without over stripping skin. 

Tip #2: Swap Lotion For Cream

 

Moisturizers rehydrate the epidermis layer of the skin to seal in moisture. To help combat dry skin, switch your lotions for heavy-duty face creams. An oil-based face cream, rather than water-based, is your best bet. Oil-based formulas create a protective barrier on the skin and retain more moisture than a lotion with higher water content. 

Keep your skin soft, supple, and ultra-hydrated all winter long with the Ultra Facial Cream by Kehils. 

Tip #3: Invest in a Good Antioxidant Serum

 

Antioxidants help hydrate the skin, shield it from environmental damage, and limit harmful free radical production, further damaging the skin. A good antioxidant serum should be packed with powerhouse ingredients and potent antioxidants like vitamin C, retinol (vitamin A), and vitamin E to help hydrate, protect, and nourish the skin. 

The nutrient-rich Vitamin Nectar Glow Juice Antioxidant Face Serum by Fresh is one of our favorites!

Tip #4: Apply a Lip Mask Before Bed 

 

Sleeping lip masks work to penetrate parched lips with hydrating ingredients to help you wake up with softer, smoother, moisturized lips. 

We can't get enough of the Laneige Lip Sleeping Masks. The ultra-thick formula works by slowly melting vitamin C and antioxidants into the lips overnight. 

Tip #5: Do Face Masks More Often

 

Stock up on face masks made with the right active ingredients to help ease dry winter skin. Sheet masks especially help saturate the skin in hydrating, brightening, or anti-aging ingredients. Use a sheet mask at least 2x per week for extra care. Apply the mask to clean, dry skin before you apply moisturizer and makeup. 

Targeted sheet masks from Dr. Jart+ penetrate deeply for ultimate hydration. Each made with fine cellulose fiber, Dr. Jart+ has a face mask for every winter skin concern. 

Tip #6: Don't Forget Sunscreen 

 

Sunscreen isn't just for summertime. UV rays still have a shot at your skin from the winter sun and snow glare. Sun exposure without protection can further damage the skin when it’s chilly outside. The cool air makes the skin even drier, causing the face to age quicker. 

Slather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face and your hands (if you're not wearing gloves) around 30 minutes before leaving the house. 

We love the Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation by ILIA for an ultra-fast makeup and skincare routine. And for exposed hands, Supergoop's Handscreen SPF 40 helps protect and nourish hands all year long. 

We can all use a boost of hydration during winter. These tips are useful for people with normal and oily skin. During wintertime, all skin types tend to get dryer than usual, especially in colder places. Use these hydration-boosting superstars to help you get through.