We are in the thick of winter and the cold temperatures are doing a number on my skin. We’ve had a serious cold spell the last couple of weeks. The sub zero temps can leave your skin looking dull and feeling parched. Just like you change your wardrobe, your skincare needs to change with the seasons. I’ve rounded up my winter skincare must haves to get you to spring.

Winter Skincare Routine

My winter my skincare must haves is focused on two things; hydration and treatment. Hydration because cold temperatures can suck all the moisture out of your skin. Treatment because typically you spend less time outside when the weather is cold and grey. This is the best time of year to up the ante on acids, peels, retinols, the whole nine yards.

Winter Skincare Products for your Face

Dermalogica Pre-Cleanse – This cleansing oil is light weight and hydrating. It’s gentle and works for all skin types, and it’s a great first cleanser when double cleansing.

Dermalogica Depuffing Eye Gel – My under eye area is dry on a normal day. Cold weather brings out all the lines. I like to use this eye gel in the mornings to add more hydration and keep the fine lines at bay.

Paula’s Choice Azelaic Acid Booster – I use this in the mornings as a treatment to reduce acne scarring, treat blemishes, and help with texture.

Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Exfoliant – I am prone to whiteheads, and this is the best product I’ve used to clean my pores. The acids help with luminosity and gets rid of texture. I use this in the mornings a few times a week after cleansing.

Differin Gel – Retinols are the best way to prevent signs of aging and increase cell turnover. I use a pea size amount at night before moisturizing. Start once a week to see how your skin tolerates it, then increase to 3x a week.

Hope In a Jar Water Cream – Water creams are amazing. This is the moisturizer for people who hate moisturizers, or don’t wear it because it feels to heavy. This is light weight and literally melts into your skin. It works best with combination and oily skin. I use it in the mornings.

Clinique Moisture Surge Intense – This is like the original but thicker. I notice that the older I get the more hydration my skin needs. This is thick, but not heavy. I apply it night as a final step to my skincare routine. Our skin does most of its repair at night, so it’s important to keep it properly hydrated.

Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask – If you want to glow like a brand new penny, this is the mask for you. If glass skin is on your vision board for 2024, this will help get you there. This mask gently exfoliates and leaves your skin looking soft, hydrated, and glowing. I use it at night as needed and follow up with a thick moisturizer.

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen – If you don’t listen to any other skincare advice I give, listen to this. You need to wear sunscreen. Every. Single. Day. Even if the sun isn’t out your skin is still being exposed to sun rays. Also any retinols or acids you use make your skin more sensitive, so its crucial not to cancel out your progress.

Winter Skincare Products for your Face

Fenty Butter Drop – I’ve used tons of body butters and creams in my day. This keeps your skin hydrated and buttery soft. It’s perfect to keep your skin feeling soft and slowly all winter long.

Oshea Body Oil – If you want your skin to feel luxurious, then body oil is the way to go. Apply it immediately after your shower or bath, while your skin is still damp.

Almond Shower Oil – Out of all the body products I use, this one smells the best. If you want to smell divine, this is the way to go. Sweet almond oil keeps you hydrated and smelling irresistible. Pro-tip: shave your legs with it for an impossibly close shave and silky smooth legs.

Kiehl’s Hand Salve – I’ve tried my fair share of hand creams over the years. On the coldest driest days, this hand salve is the only thing that works for me. It’s thick, unscented, and keeps my hands from feeling like a lizard. I use it as needed, and always add a thick layer right before bed.

Winter Skin Must Haves

These are my winter skin must haves. Keeping your skin hydrated and treating any skin issues are crucial in cold weather. Once the flowers bloom in spring, you’ll be good to go. If you’re new to skincare here’s my guide to building a routine.