Winter may bring cozy vibes and festive cheer — but it can also leave your skin dry, tight, and irritated. Cold, low-humidity air outside and indoor heating inside both strip your skin of vital moisture. Dermatologists agree that even if you don’t have a diagnosed skin condition, a few routine tweaks can help your complexion stay soft, hydrated, and radiant through the season.
Here are 12 expert-approved, dermatologist-backed tips to keep your skin glowing all winter long — brought to you by LouisianaMart, your trusted source for winter skincare essentials.
1. Scale Back the Cleansing
You should still cleanse daily — but over-washing can strip natural oils and worsen dryness. If your skin feels tight right after cleansing, that’s your cue to simplify.
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Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser (cream or lotion based) at night.
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In the morning, rinse with lukewarm water or use a mild cleanser only.
2. Choose Thicker, Richer Moisturizers
In winter, swap lightweight gels for thicker creams or ointments to help seal in hydration.
Look for:
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Humectants: glycerin, hyaluronic acid
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Barrier-builders: ceramides, squalane
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Occlusives: shea butter, petrolatum, mineral oil
Pro tip from LouisianaMart: Apply moisturizer onto slightly damp skin for deeper absorption.
3. Keep Wearing Sunscreen
Yes — you still need SPF in winter! Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning.
Pick a moisturizing formula to boost hydration and protection.
4. Go Easy on Retinol & Exfoliation
Winter skin is more sensitive.
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Exfoliate just once every 1–2 weeks.
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Use the moisturizer sandwich: moisturizer → retinol → moisturizer.
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Skip harsh acids and fragranced scrubs.
5. Add Moisture to Indoor Air
Indoor heating dries out your skin. A humidifier helps restore balance.
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Keep humidity between 30–50%.
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Clean weekly.
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Run it overnight for best results.
6. Take Shorter, Lukewarm Showers
Hot showers feel great but strip your skin.
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Keep showers under 10 minutes.
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Use warm—not hot—water.
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Apply body lotion immediately afterward.
7. Watch Out for Hidden Irritants
A weakened barrier lets irritants sneak in more easily.
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Switch to fragrance-free skincare and detergents.
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Wear breathable fabrics like cotton.
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Avoid “tingly” products — they usually irritate.
8. Dress Smart for the Weather
Cold wind and dry air can aggravate winter dryness.
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Wear scarves, gloves, and hats.
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Use gloves when cleaning or dishwashing.
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Apply hand cream and lip balm before going outdoors.
9. Don’t Forget Lips & Nails
Winter dehydration hits here first.
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Lips: Choose balms with glycerin, shea butter, or beeswax. Avoid menthol or camphor.
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Nails: Apply cuticle oil + hand cream daily.
If nail color changes or they grow brittle, see a dermatologist early.
10. Support Your Skin from the Inside
Your skin reflects your diet and lifestyle.
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Eat foods rich in omega-3s, vitamin E, and antioxidants.
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Stay moderately hydrated.
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Prioritize sleep.
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Manage stress — high cortisol slows skin repair.
11. Stay Consistent — Healing Takes Time
Expect 3–4 weeks before you see noticeable improvement.
Avoid switching products too often.
12. Know When to See a Dermatologist
If your dryness worsens or you notice cracking, redness, or flaking, it may signal eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea.
Dermatologists can suggest prescription creams or targeted barrier-repair treatments.
Quick Recap: Your Winter Skin Survival Plan
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✅ Cleanse gently
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✅ Use rich moisturizers
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✅ SPF 30+ daily
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✅ Reduce exfoliation & retinol
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✅ Use a humidifier
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✅ Short, warm showers
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✅ Avoid fragrance & alcohol
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✅ Gloves + lip balm outdoors
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✅ Nourish your body
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✅ Be consistent for 3+ weeks
Top 5 FAQs About Winter Skincare
1. Why does my skin still get dry even when I moisturize?
Cold air + low humidity + indoor heat pull moisture faster than you can replace it. Layer products and use a humidifier.
2. Can I still use vitamin C in winter?
Yes — opt for a vitamin C cream rather than a watery serum for extra hydration.
3. Is petroleum jelly good for dry winter skin?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most effective occlusives for sealing in moisture.
4. Should I exfoliate flaky skin?
Gently — once every 1–2 weeks. Focus on hydration first.
5. What’s the best nighttime routine for winter?
Cleanse → hydrating serum → thick moisturizer or overnight mask.
Final Thought
With the right winter skincare strategy — and high-quality products from LouisianaMart — you can keep your skin hydrated, comfortable, and glowing all season long. Small, consistent steps make all the difference.