Snow Bunny Skin: The Best Winter Skincare Tips for Combating Dryness + Dullness

Winter may bring dreamy snowfalls and cozy nights by the fire, but it also delivers a less-than-welcome guest: dull, dehydrated skin. The drop in temperature, combined with indoor heating and harsher winds, can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it looking flaky and feeling tight. But fear not - your glow doesn’t have to hibernate for the season.

With a few strategic swaps and skincare upgrades, you can protect your skin from winter’s wrath and keep your complexion luminous. Think of this as your ultimate winter skincare survival guide, curated with the wisdom of someone who’s been there, done that, and stocked up on the serums.

(scroll to the bottom for links)

No. 1: Swap Your Cleanser for a Creamier Formula

Foaming cleansers might be your go-to for summer, but in winter, they can exacerbate dryness. Instead, opt for a creamy, hydrating cleanser that cleans your skin without stripping it of essential moisture. Ingredients like ceramides and glycerin are your winter skin’s besties.

Taylor-Approved Cleanser Picks:

• CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser: A drugstore classic that never disappoints.

• La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser: Gentle yet effective, perfect for sensitive skin.

No. 2: Hydrate Like Your Glow Depends on It (Because It Does)

Your lightweight moisturizer won’t cut it when temperatures plummet. Swap it for a richer cream packed with humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to draw moisture into the skin, and occlusives like shea butter to lock it in.

Layering a hyaluronic acid serum under your moisturizer will supercharge hydration. Apply to damp skin for maximum effect.

Hydration Heroes:

• Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum: Quenches thirsty skin instantly.

• Weleda Skin Food: The cult classic that us makeup artists swear by for dry skin.

No. 3: Exfoliate (But Be Gentle, Babe)

Exfoliation is essential to remove dead skin cells and let your hydrating products do their job, but harsh scrubs can make dry skin worse. Switch to a gentle chemical exfoliant like lactic acid, which hydrates while it smooths. Stick to exfoliating 1–2 times a week to avoid overdoing it.

Taylor's Favorites for Winter-Perfect Exfoliation:

• Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment: A splurge-worthy staple.

• The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA: Affordable and effective.

No. 4: Don’t Skip Sunscreen (Yes, Even in Winter)

It’s tempting to think SPF is a summer-only affair, but UV rays don’t take a vacation. In fact, they can reflect off snow, intensifying their effect. Use a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 daily, no excuses. Many sunscreens now come with added hydration, so check your labels for an extra boost!

Winter SPF Must-Haves:

• EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46: Lightweight and calming for sensitive skin.

• Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40: Protection plus an instant glow.

No. 5: Treat Your Lips and Hands Like VIPs

Chapped lips and cracked hands are some of winter’s biggest nuisances. Combat dryness with a heavy-duty lip balm and a rich hand cream. Apply often and don’t skimp - these areas need extra TLC when it’s freezing outside (trust me, I know).

Cold-Weather Staples:

• Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: Overnight magic for your lips.

• L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream: Luxurious hydration in a tube.

No. 6: Add a Facial Oil for Extra Glow

Facial oils are winter’s secret weapon - although, I am SUPER picky when it comes to mine. Not only do they nourish your skin, but they also create a protective barrier against the elements. Mix a few drops into your moisturizer or press directly onto your skin for a dewy finish.

Oil Obsessions:

• Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil: Lightweight and brightening.

• The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane: Budget-friendly and versatile.

No. 7: Invest in a Humidifier

Sometimes, your skincare routine needs a little help from your environment. Dry indoor air is a major culprit for parched skin, so adding a humidifier to your bedroom or workspace can work wonders. Your skin (and sinuses) will thank you.

Top Humidifier Picks:

• Levoit Classic 300S Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier: Quiet, efficient, and chic enough to leave on your nightstand.

• Canopy Humidifier: A skincare-lover’s favorite for its mold-free design.

No. 8: Embrace Overnight Masks

Winter nights are the perfect time to let a deeply hydrating overnight mask work its magic. These masks seal in moisture while you sleep, so you wake up with plump, refreshed skin - no extra effort required.

Taylor's Picks for Beauty Sleep:

• Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask: Lightweight yet deeply hydrating.

• Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Mask: Your winter savior for very dry skin.

No. 9: Stay Hydrated Inside and Out

Your skincare routine won’t work as well if your body is dehydrated. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, or warm lemon water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within.

Shop all of these winter skin-saving products here!

xoxo

Tay

This blog contains affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog and the content I share!