Winter can be incredibly tough on the skin. Without the right products, the cold air, dry indoor heat, and low humidity leave my skin feeling tight, dry, and flaky. That’s why I make it a priority to use the proper skincare during the colder months. Over time, I’ve discovered that having the right routine and products in place can make all the difference in keeping my skin smooth, hydrated, and healthy.
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Here are my top products and tips that have truly done wonders for me in combating flaky, uncomfortable skin during winter. Whether you’re struggling with dryness or simply want to maintain your glow all season, these recommendations will help transform your winter skincare routine.
Why Does Winter Cause Flaky Skin?
During the winter months, cold temperatures and low humidity levels create an environment where your skin loses moisture faster than it can replenish. Indoor heating makes things worse, drying the air even further and exacerbating skin’s natural barrier damage. Without proper care, this leads to irritation, redness, and, of course, flaky patches that can leave your skin feeling uncomfortable.
Top Products to Treat and Prevent Flaky Skin
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Description: This gentle yet effective chemical exfoliator removes dead skin cells, smooths rough patches, and unclogs pores. It’s ideal for winter because it doesn’t strip the skin of its natural moisture.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Reduces flakiness by removing dead skin gently.
- Lightweight, non-drying formula suitable for sensitive skin.
- Leaves skin feeling smoother and more refined.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Description: This rich cream is packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to provide intense hydration while strengthening the skin’s barrier. It works wonders on dry, flaky skin and is perfect for face and body.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Provides long-lasting hydration.
- Restores and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Non-comedogenic, making it safe for sensitive skin.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
Description: This gel moisturizer is a winter savior for dehydrated skin. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, it absorbs quickly to deliver a burst of hydration without feeling heavy.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Lightweight, yet deeply hydrating.
- Leaves skin plump and smooth.
- Perfect for layering under makeup.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Description: This chemical exfoliator is an affordable option for gently removing dry, flaky skin and improving texture. With 7% glycolic acid, it effectively resurfaces your skin, leaving it radiant and smooth.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Reduces flaky patches by improving skin texture.
- Affordable and highly effective.
- Suitable for all skin types when used in moderation.
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
Description: This moisturizer is formulated with ceramides and niacinamide to replenish moisture while calming dry, irritated skin. It’s lightweight yet deeply nourishing, making it a perfect choice for winter.
Why You’ll Love It:
- It deeply hydrates without feeling greasy or heavy.
- Niacinamide soothes irritation and reduces redness.
- Ceramides restore your skin’s barrier to lock in moisture.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Description: A winter staple, this multi-purpose balm provides intense hydration to heal cracked, flaky areas on the skin. Perfect for use on the face, lips, and body.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Creates a protective barrier to lock in moisture.
- Works on even the driest, cracked skin.
- Great for sensitive areas like lips and hands.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
Description: This cream is a lifesaver for severely dry and flaky skin. Infused with colloidal oatmeal and shea butter, it soothes irritation while deeply moisturizing.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Relieves itching and irritation.
- Lightweight yet ultra-nourishing.
- Absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue.
Bioderma Atoderm Shower Oil
Description: This ultra-nourishing shower oil gently cleanses while hydrating the skin, making it perfect for combating winter dryness right from the shower.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Provides hydration while cleansing.
- Suitable for sensitive and dry skin.
- Leaves skin soft and smooth post-shower.
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Description: Flaky, chapped lips? This rich, hydrating lip mask works overnight to restore moisture and leave your lips smooth and supple by morning.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Intense hydration for dry, cracked lips.
- A little goes a long way.
- Comes in a variety of soothing flavors.
Step-by-Step Winter Skincare Routine for Flaky Skin
- Start with a Gentle Cleanser: Use a hydrating cleanser like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or Bioderma Atoderm Shower Oil to cleanse your face and body without stripping away moisture.
- Exfoliate Weekly: Use a chemical exfoliator, like Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid or The Ordinary Glycolic Acid, once or twice a week to remove dead skin gently.
- Apply a Hydrating Serum: Layer a serum with hyaluronic acid, such as Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, to lock in moisture.
- Moisturize Thoroughly: Use a rich, hydrating cream like CeraVe Moisturizing Cream or La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer to seal in hydration.
- Protect Your Lips and Hands: Use a healing ointment like Aquaphor for dry patches and Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask for chapped lips.
- Don’t Forget SPF: Apply sunscreen every morning, even in winter, to protect against harmful UV rays.
Tips to Prevent Flaky Skin
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within.
- Avoid Long Hot Showers: Opt for lukewarm water instead to prevent your skin from drying out.
- Invest in a Humidifier: Add moisture to the air in your home to prevent dryness.
- Layer Products Properly: Apply your skincare products in the right order, lightest to heaviest for optimal absorption.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Use gloves and scarves to shield your skin from the cold air.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is my skin flakier in winter than in other seasons?
A: Winter’s cold air and indoor heating strip the skin of its natural moisture, weakening the skin barrier and causing dryness and flakiness.
Q: How often should I exfoliate in winter?
A: Exfoliate once or twice a week using a gentle chemical exfoliator to remove dead skin cells without irritating the skin.
Q: What’s the best way to lock in moisture after a shower?
A: Use a hydrating body oil or lotion, such as Bioderma Atoderm Shower Oil or CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, immediately after your shower while your skin is still damp.
Q: Can sunscreen be skipped in winter?
A: No, sunscreen should still be used daily in winter to protect your skin from UV rays, which can cause damage even on cloudy days.
Final Thoughts
Flaky skin in winter doesn’t have to be a constant battle. With the right products and routine, you can keep your skin hydrated, smooth, and glowing all season long. From effective exfoliators to rich moisturizers, every step counts in building a strong defense against winter dryness.
Give these recommendations a try and share them with others who might be struggling with winter skin woes.
My Other Blogs:
10 Powerful Serums That Will Transform Your Winter Skincare Routine
Complete Winter Skincare Routine: Best Products for Soft, Glowing Skin
How to Hydrate Dry Skin This Winter: 10 Best Face Moisturizers You Need