As the temperature drops, so does your skin’s moisture — and according to skincare specialists on Fresha, the world’s leading beauty and wellness booking platform, winter is the season when your usual routine might start working against you.
Dermatologists warn that many everyday products can strip and irritate the skin once the cold sets in, making it essential to rethink your lineup.
Now’s the time to swap those lightweight summer staples for richer, barrier-boosting creams and nourishing oils that keep moisture locked in. The key? Focus on hydration, protection, and repair — and save any harsh actives or exfoliants for spring.
The Winter Swaps Your Skin Will Thank You For
Cleanser
Switch to: Creamy or oil-based cleansers
Avoid: Foaming cleansers with sulphates
Why: Creamy cleansers gently remove impurities without stripping natural oils, unlike foaming formulas that can leave skin tight and dry.
Moisturiser
Switch to: Ceramide-rich barrier creams
Avoid: Lightweight gels or oil-free formulas
Why: Ceramides help repair and strengthen the skin’s barrier, while gels often lack the rich hydration needed to protect against the cold.
Serum
Switch to: Hyaluronic acid and glycerin blends
Avoid: Daily use of strong exfoliating acids
Why: Humectant serums draw moisture into the skin, keeping it plump and dewy, while frequent exfoliation can lead to irritation in dry, winter air.
Treatment
Switch to: Nourishing facial oils like rosehip or squalane
Avoid: High-strength retinol (daily use)
Why: Oils lock in moisture and boost elasticity, while daily use of potent retinoids can exacerbate dryness and flaking.
Body Care
Switch to: Shea butter or oat-based creams
Avoid: Fragranced lotions
Why: Rich, fragrance-free butters calm and soothe parched skin, reducing the risk of irritation from added scent.
Lips
Switch to: Protective balms with beeswax or lanolin
Avoid: Matte liquid lipsticks
Why: Hydrating balms prevent chapping and create a protective barrier, while matte formulas can worsen dryness.
“Cold weather, central heating, and wind all dehydrate the skin barrier,” say skincare specialists at Fresha. “Think hydration, protection, and repair — and give your skin a gentler approach until spring.”