If your skin feels drier than usual during the colder months, you’re not alone — and you’re likely making at least one of these winter skincare mistakes without even realizing it.
Winter brings harsh weather, dry indoor heat, and lower humidity, all of which wreak havoc on your skin barrier. Here are the top skincare habits that dry you out in winter, plus expert-approved strategies to stay glowing all season.
❄️ 1. Using the Same Skincare Routine Year-Round
Why it dries you out:
What works in summer won’t cut it in winter. Gel-based cleansers and lightweight moisturizers often don’t offer enough protection when temperatures drop.
Fix it:
✅ Switch to cream cleansers and richer moisturizers with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or squalane.
✅ Add an occlusive like shea butter at night to seal in moisture.
🛁 2. Hot Showers (Too Long, Too Often)
Why it dries you out:
Hot water strips the natural oils that protect your skin barrier — making it more prone to cracking, redness, and flakiness.
Fix it:
✅ Take shorter, lukewarm showers
✅ Moisturize immediately after drying off to lock in hydration
🧼 3. Over-Exfoliating
Why it dries you out:
Exfoliating too frequently (or using harsh scrubs/acids) thins the skin barrier and increases trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) — especially dangerous in winter.
Fix it:
✅ Limit exfoliation to 1–2 times a week
✅ Choose gentle exfoliants like PHA or enzyme masks in winter
📍 Microneedling or Professional Peels: What’s Right for You?
☀️ 4. Skipping SPF Because It’s Cloudy
Why it dries you out:
UV rays still reach your skin — even through clouds or windows. Sun damage dries skin and accelerates aging, even in winter.
Fix it:
✅ Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily
✅ Choose a hydrating sunscreen to protect and moisturize simultaneously
📍 Recommended: Dermexcel SPF for Dry or Sensitive Skin
💨 5. Not Using a Humidifier Indoors
Why it dries you out:
Indoor heaters suck moisture from the air — and your skin. This creates an environment where even the best products struggle to work effectively.
Fix it:
✅ Run a cool mist humidifier at night
✅ Apply moisturizer immediately after cleansing to trap moisture
💧 Bonus Tip: Add Hydration from the Inside
Pair your winter skincare with internal hydration support — like collagen supplements, omega-3s, and vitamin-rich IV drips — for full-spectrum glow.
🧖♀️ Ready to Rescue Your Winter Skin?
Winter doesn’t have to mean dull, dry, or flaky skin. By upgrading your skincare habits and incorporating deep hydration treatments, you can keep your skin radiant year-round.
📍Avoid common winter skincare mistakes and book a winter skin consultation.
