Winter is one of the most challenging times of year for skin. Cold winds, central heating, darker days and shifts in humidity all create the perfect storm for dryness, sensitivity and dullness. If your skin feels tight, flaky, reactive or simply lacklustre as the temperature drops, you’re not imagining it. The skin genuinely behaves differently in winter – and it needs a little extra support. 

Below is your expert guide to what really happens to the skin in winter and the simple but effective steps you can take to keep it healthy, calm and glowing. 

Why Skin Struggles in Winter

1. Moisture Loss Increases

Cold air holds less humidity, meaning the air around you literally pulls moisture from your skin. When this happens, water evaporates more quickly from the epidermis (a process known as transepidermal water loss or TEWL), leaving skin feeling tight and thirsty.

2. Central Heating Dehydrates the Skin Further

Once inside, blasting radiators and fan heaters strip moisture even faster. Sudden temperature changes – from the cold outdoors to warm indoors – disrupt the skin barrier, making it harder for skin to protect itself.

3. Barrier Function Weakens

Wind, cold and dryness compromise the skin’s lipid barrier. When this barrier thins, everything becomes more noticeable: redness, irritation, flakiness and sensitivity.

4. Circulation Slows Down

Cooler temperatures naturally reduce blood flow to the skin. Less circulation means less oxygen and fewer nutrients reaching the surface, which can make the complexion appear dull.

5. Sebum Production Drops

Although oiliness can still happen, many people notice their skin feels drier in winter. This is because the sebaceous glands become less active in cold weather, providing less natural lubrication.

6. Conditions Like Eczema and Rosacea Flare

Low humidity and harsh weather can trigger flare-ups for those prone to eczema, dermatitis or rosacea. The skin becomes more reactive when the barrier is compromised.

How to Support Your Skin Through Winter

1. Switch to a Gentle, Nourishing Cleanser

Foaming or high-surfactant cleansers can feel too stripping during winter. Opt for cream, milk or oil cleansers that clean without removing essential lipids. This helps maintain hydration from the very first step. Take a look at our best-selling Gentle Cleansing Milk for its unctuous aroma and moisturising ingredients or our Makeup Removing Nectar, rich in moisture-binding Glycerin. 

2. Layer Hydration (Not Just Moisture)

Hydration equals water, not oil. Look for serums with:

· Hyaluronic acid (especially multiple molecular weights)

· Glycerin

· Aloe vera

Our cult favourite the Beauty Essential Solution is a HA rich serum with Glycerin and Aloe to truly lock-in water and soothe the skin.

Apply these underneath your moisturiser to deeply replenish the skin.

3. Strengthen the Skin Barrier

Winter is the time to think in terms of repair. Ingredients that rebuild barrier function include:

· Ceramides

· Essential fatty acids

· Plant oils such as sea buckthorn, Centella Asiatica and Cotton Seed

We highly recommend our Sublime Youth Elixir Serum – Natures retinol that rebuilds the skin without the effect of synthetic retinols, and CicaVelvet 3R- our repair serum for sensitive skin. 

A richer moisturiser may be needed at night to compensate for increased moisture loss. 

4. Add a Weekly Exfoliation – But Keep It Gentle

Dry, flaky skin often needs more exfoliation, not less – just the right kind. Gentle enzyme or non-scratchy exfoliants help remove dead skin build-up, allowing hydrators to work better and improving luminosity. 

5. Use a Humidifier at Home

A humidifier replaces moisture lost through heating systems, significantly reducing winter dryness. Even placing a bowl of water near a radiator helps. We like a drop of Lavendar oil in ours! 

6. Protect Your Skin Outdoors

Barrier-supporting creams and balms shield skin from biting winds and cold. For very dry or sensitive skin, applying a thin layer of a richer balm before heading outside can make a noticeable difference.

Recommendation: Sovereign Cream with Sea Lavender that provides a protective shield. 

7. Keep Wearing SPF (Yes, Even in Winter)

UV rays are present year-round, and UVA – the ageing ray – penetrates clouds and glass. Daily SPF protects skin from cumulative damage and pigmentation, even on grey, chilly days. But there is a balance. You need your Vitamin D too. 

8. Support Your Skin from the Inside

Hydration and nutrition play a huge role in winter skin health. Aim for:

• Plenty of water and herbal teas
• Omega-rich foods (nuts, seeds, avocado, salmon)
• Colourful fruit and veg for antioxidants
• Reduced alcohol and sugar where possible 

When to Book a Winter Facial

A seasonal treatment can work wonders, especially one focused on hydration, repair and barrier strengthening. Winter facials often include: 

• Deep hydration masks
• Gentle exfoliation
• LED light therapy
• Nourishing massage to boost circulation

Regular professional treatments help counteract the environmental stress the skin faces from November to March. 

Final Thoughts

Winter doesn’t have to mean dull, dry or irritated skin. With a few targeted adjustments, the right ingredients and supportive treatment choices, your skin can stay comfortable, radiant and resilient all season long. Small, consistent changes often make the biggest difference.

If you’d like personalised recommendations or help choosing the best winter routine for your skin, book a consultation or pop into the spa – we’re always here to guide you.