Winter Skincare
Some things in life just aren't fair, like bitter cold winter temps, shorter days, and dry winter skin. As temperatures drop, humidity levels fall and draw moisture from the air, our skin, and our hair. And, unfortunately, some of our favorite ways to warm up (cranking the thermostat, long hot showers, and space heaters) can dehydrate the skin by stripping away natural oils that help retain moisture. To add flame to the fire, factors like perspiration, and contact with irritants like wool can lead to itchy and inflamed skin.
One of the biggest misconceptions in dry, winter skin care, are that moisturizers and lotions treat dry skin. Although you will likely feel immediate relief, using these products is also helping to strengthen the skin barrier and decrease moisture loss, thus preventing these very symptoms. There are many ways we can prep the skin to weather the winter better (pun intended). Let’s talk about some low-lift ways we can prepare our skin for hibernation mode and position products for consumer needs:
Switch to thicker creams
When searching for a winter moisturizer, opt for cream instead of lotion. Creams contain a higher oil content, which helps create an occlusive barrier on your skin, trapping in moisture. Occlusives help to seal moisture within the skin, (look for petroleum jelly, squalane, shea butter, beeswax, and dimethicone). Humectants attract moisture from the environment into the skin. (look for glycerin, urea, and hyaluronic acid). When temperatures drop, strengthening the skin barrier is the name of the game. Whether it’s calling out these nourishing ingredients in your product or developing a thicker, hydrating texture for your catalogue, the snow bunnies will thank you.
Moisturize right after showering
After showering, apply an oil, moisturizer, or both to damp skin. Having some water on your skin gives the humectants more moisture to deliver and the occlusives will provide a protective barrier to seal the moisture in. 53% of US body care consumers say that hydrating/moisturizing are the most important claim when purchasing a product. Body oils and serums are gaining momentum as a trending format, signaling that consumers are looking for multi-step post-shower routines.
Choose gentle formulas
Active ingredients such as exfoliants and retinoids are effective but can cause irritation, redness, and peeling if overused, especially in winter! Microdermabrasion has developed a bad rap in 2025, consumers are shifting away from irritating procedures and products and leaning towards gentler approaches. AHA and chemical exfoliants as well as natural, more gentle buffing ingredients are on the rise. Again, these shifts are all in the name of keeping the skin barrier balanced and healthy.
Keep wearing SPF
Last but certainly not least, don’t be deceived by the chilly weather; the sun is still shining bright! Winter snow can reflect as much as 80% of UV radiation, putting your skin at risk for sunburn and photoaging. SPF is a year-round product and the most important anti-aging practice in your rotation. Remember to apply SPF daily and reapply as necessary, especially if you're enjoying a beautiful day on the slopes at high altitudes!
Some things we just can’t avoid, whether it’s winter weather, dry skin, or sensitivity to various conditions. We can, however, build education and product resources, and vibe through it all. Talk to a member of our sales team to see how you can support the winter battle for healthy skin.
