Winter-Ready Skincare: How to Protect and Rejuvenate Dry Skin

As the temperatures drop and the heating gets turned up, our skin is often the first to suffer. During the winter months, many of us notice our skin feeling tighter, flakier, and more prone to irritation. It’s not just discomfort – untreated dry skin can worsen existing skin conditions and accelerate signs of ageing. That’s why a winter-specific skincare routine isn’t optional, it’s essential.

At our clinic, we regularly see patients struggling with the same seasonal concerns: dehydrated complexions, sensitivity flare-ups, and a general loss of radiance. From our clinical experience, the biggest mistake we tend to see is people continuing their autumn or summer routine into winter without adjustments. Cold weather, harsh winds and indoor heating all contribute to a dramatic loss of moisture, and unless we address this head-on, skin health can quickly decline. Below, we’ve pulled together expert tips and practical skincare advice to help you hydrate, protect and rejuvenate your skin through winter.

Why Winter Worsens Dry Skin

The environment during winter is much harsher on the skin. Low humidity levels outside combined with the drying effect of central heating indoors lead to a significant drop in your skin’s natural moisture levels. This results in a compromised skin barrier, making it harder for the skin to retain hydration and easier for irritants to get in.

In our clinical treatments, we often see this manifest as increased flakiness, redness, fine lines becoming more pronounced, and in some cases, eczema flare-ups or worsened rosacea. Even if you typically don’t suffer from dry skin, winter can make it a problem. Addressing this means working from the outside in, with topical support, and from the inside out, by maintaining hydration and protecting your barrier function.

1. Switch to Richer Moisturisers

If you’re still using your light, gel-based moisturiser from summer, now is the time to upgrade. Thicker, creamier formulas containing emollients and occlusives help to form a protective layer over the skin, locking in moisture and shielding it from cold air and indoor heating.

Look for moisturisers containing ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or squalane – all of which help to restore lipids in the skin’s barrier. Many of our patients find relief with barrier-repair creams such as those used in our rosacea and sensitive skin treatments, which are specially formulated to calm and hydrate stressed skin.

2. Add Humectants for Deep Hydration

While emollients seal in moisture, humectants draw water into the skin – which is especially important when your environment is dry. Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol are all excellent examples. The key is to apply these on damp skin and then follow up with a rich moisturiser to lock the hydration in place.

We often recommend our patients layer hydrating serums under their moisturiser during winter. This dual approach significantly improves the skin’s hydration levels without overloading it.

3. Don’t Neglect SPF – Yes, Even in Winter

One of the most common skincare myths we hear in clinic is that SPF isn’t necessary in winter. UV exposure remains a year-round concern, and even cloudy days allow UVA rays – which contribute to premature ageing – to penetrate the skin.

Using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily is still crucial. We often recommend mineral-based sunscreens for sensitive winter skin, which offer protection without irritation. For patients who have received cosmetic dermatology treatments such as chemical peels or microneedling, consistent SPF use is vital to protect healing skin.

4. Invest in a Humidifier

The effect of indoor heating is often underestimated. While it keeps us warm, it also strips the air – and our skin – of moisture. Using a humidifier in your bedroom or living area can help maintain a healthy level of humidity and prevent your skin from drying out overnight.

This is particularly beneficial for patients with eczema or psoriasis, both of which can worsen in dry conditions. We often suggest combining a humidifier with tailored treatment plans that include barrier-restoring products to provide consistent relief.

5. Treat Dry Skin Flare-Ups Promptly

Winter can trigger flare-ups of various skin conditions, from dermatitis to acne. Dryness often aggravates these issues, leading to inflammation and even micro-tears in the skin. That’s why it’s important to act quickly.

We encourage our patients not to ignore these changes. Instead, booking in for a dermatologist consultation allows us to assess the underlying cause and recommend treatments tailored to your skin’s specific winter needs. Whether it’s prescription creams, barrier-repair products, or adjusting your skincare routine, early intervention always produces better outcomes.

6. Simplify Your Routine and Avoid Over-Exfoliating

With flaky skin comes the temptation to scrub it away – but this can do more harm than good. Over-exfoliating compromises the skin barrier further, making dryness and sensitivity worse. Instead, we advise using a gentle exfoliant (such as lactic acid) no more than once a week.

This helps remove dead skin cells without irritating the skin underneath. We also encourage patients to strip back their routines: fewer products, gentler formulas, and more attention to hydration can make a significant difference in how your skin responds during winter.

7. Professional Treatments for Deep Hydration

While at-home care forms the foundation of good skincare, professional treatments can take results to the next level. During the colder months, we offer a number of hydrating and barrier-supportive treatments tailored for winter skin, including custom medical facials and therapeutic peels that boost moisture retention.

These are often combined with guidance on home routines and product recommendations based on your skin type and seasonal concerns. Patients often report long-lasting hydration and improved resilience following these treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Experience Healthier Skin This Winter

Winter skincare doesn’t have to be complicated – but it does need to be intentional. By adjusting your products, protecting your skin barrier, and seeking expert advice when flare-ups occur, it’s possible to maintain a hydrated, comfortable complexion all season long. If you’re struggling with persistent dryness or irritation, don’t wait until it worsens. Book a dermatology consultation to get professional guidance tailored to your skin.

For more winter skincare support, or to explore our full range of dermatological services, visit our services page and let us help you protect your skin from the elements – with proven treatments and experienced care.