Winter Skin Essentials: My Routine for Beating the Chill

Oct 24

Written By Aley

As much as I love the cozy charm of winter—crackling fires, chunky knits, and endless mugs of tea (and I do drink copious amounts)—the cold air and indoor heat can wreak havoc on skin. Every year, as soon as the temperatures dip, I reshuffle my skincare routine to focus on hydration, barrier repair, and soothing anything that feels dry, tight, or irritated. Below are the tried-and-true products that get me through the season with soft, calm, and nourished skin from head to toe.

For Skin That Feels Comforted and Supple

When my skin needs a serious moisture boost, I reach for BELIF’s The True Cream – Moisturizing Bomb. It’s lightweight yet deeply hydrating, with a cushiony texture that instantly eases tightness and keeps my skin feeling soft all day. For redness or sensitivity (a constant winter battle), Dr. Jart+’s Cicapair Sensitive Skin Moisturizer works wonders to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier while visibly toning down any flushed areas.

For a Luxurious Body Care Routine

Body hydration is just as important, and I love to make it feel indulgent. Diptyque’s Satin Oil for Body & Hair adds a gorgeous glow and silky finish without feeling heavy—it’s perfect right after a warm shower. Speaking of showers, L’Occitane’s Almond Shower Oil is my go-to for cleansing without stripping moisture. It transforms into a soft, milky lather and leaves skin feeling nourished before I even reach for lotion.

Once I’m out of the shower, Josie Maran’s Vanilla Vibezzz Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter seals in hydration with a rich, comforting texture and the dreamiest scent. For hands that take the brunt of the cold, Caudalie’s Vinotherapist Hand & Nail Cream keeps them velvety and protected. I finish the ritual with L’Occitane’s Shea Nail & Cuticle Oil, a small but satisfying step that makes a big difference during dry months.

For Hair That Shines Through Winter

Hydration doesn’t stop at the skin. I keep my hair soft and shiny with Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hydrating Hair Oil, a lightweight treatment that tames frizz and restores smoothness. Once a week, I follow up with Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask to revive any dryness and bring my strands back to life.

For Lips That Stay Soft Overnight

Finally, I never go to bed without Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask. It’s an overnight treatment that works like magic—each morning, lips are smooth, plump, and perfectly hydrated, ready to face another brisk morning at the barn.

These products have become my winter staples, helping me keep dryness, redness, and that itchy “tight skin” feeling at bay. Staying hydrated from the inside out (thank you, tea!) and layering on rich, nourishing products makes all the difference.

Shop My Winter Skin Essentials Below