It's official: winter has arrived. But just how prepared is your skin for the change in weather?
Cold winds, plummeting temperatures and harsh central heating can all contribute to moisture loss, leaving skin feeling dry and sensitive. However, there's no need to overhaul your entire bathroom cabinet just yet.
If dehydration is a concern, take a look at our guide to seven hydration heroes for dry skin, for the ingredients and products to help. But, if you just need a little facial skin overhaul and some extra focus on chapped hands and lips, the skincare additions below might be just what you need.
From a hardworking hand cream to a serum that delivers an extra hydration boost, these are six products to have on your winter skincare radar.
1. SkinSense Hydranet PLUS Hyaluronic Acid Serum
When skin is feeling a little parched, a hydrating serum can be a useful addition to your routine. SkinSense's hydration hero serum contains 2% hyaluronic acid, alongside aquaxyl and pentavitin, which are moisturising ingredients to help attract and retain moisture. Apply it to cleansed skin before your moisturiser to give your routine an extra hit of hydration.
Why it's in the edit: A targeted hydration step for skin that feels tight, thirsty or a lacklustre.
£38, skinsense.co.uk
2. Neal's Yard Remedies Oat & Ceramide Barrier Repair Cream
A good barrier-supporting moisturiser is a must for me as soon as the temperature drops. Neal's Yard has come up trumps with one that combines oat ingredient and ceramides. These lipids (fats) are naturally found in the skin and play an important role in maintaining its protective barrier. I apply this as my comforting layer when I want my skin to feel extra loved.
Why it's in the edit: A nourishing everyday moisturiser for when lighter textures aren't quite cutting it.
£28.50, Neal's Yard Remedies
Not sure which order to apply your skincare? Our simple guide to skincare routine order explains what goes first, from serums to moisturisers and SPF
3. Green People Scent Free Facial Sun Cream SPF30
SPF might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you're pulling on your winter coat, but sun protection shouldn't be packed away with your summer wardrobe. Green People's Facial Sun Cream combines broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection with nourishing ingredients including aloe vera, cocoa butter and green tea extract. It's also fragrance-free, vegan and contains 88.7% natural ingredients. The lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave that white finish so works well under make-up.
Why it's in the edit: A combo product that offers moisturise and SPF. Plus it’s appealing if you prefer fragrance-free skincare.
£21, greenpeople.co.uk
4. Avène Cicalfate+ Lips Repair Balm
When lips are dry, cracked and feeling a little worse for wear, a regular lip balm doesn't always cut it. I’ve tried tloads and Avène's Cicalfate+ Lips Repair Balm is the only things that soothes my irritated and damaged lips. Its formula includes beeswax and mineral oil to help create a protective barrier. Plus it’s fragrance-free, making it a good option if you worry that added fragrance can dry lips further. The texture is rich, so a little goes a long way. Keep it handy for chilly days when lips need some extra TLC.
Why it's in the edit: A targeted repair balm, I keep this handy and give lips a quick slick of moisture when I feel them starting to shrivel.
5. Dr Organic Manuka Honey Hand Cream
Hands often get forgotten about when it comes to skincare, despite being exposed to cold weather, frequent washing and all the other daily jobs we put them through. I've tried countless hand creams, but Dr Organic's Manuka Honey Hand Cream is one I've genuinely found soothing for rough, dry hands. Its formula combines Manuka honey with glycerin, shea butter and cocoa butter to help moisturise and soften skin. The brand describes it as an intensive 12-hour hand and nail rescue cream, and says it can also be used on rough areas such as elbows and knees.
Why it's in the edit: It was my saviour when I was constantly sterilising bottles for the twins. A hardworking hand cream with a nourishing blend of honey and plant butters.
£5.24, hollandandbarrett.com
6. Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion
It's easy to give our faces plenty of attention while the rest of our skin gets neglected. But dry, itchy and uncomfortable skin on arms, legs and elbows can be noticeable during the colder months thanks to constantly going from hot (inside) to cold (outside) temperatures. This body lotion is a good everyday option as the formula combines prebiotic oatmeal with glycerin to help moisturise and support the skin's natural barrier. It's fragrance-free and fast-absorbing. I apply it all over after every bath or shower.
Why it's in the edit: It’s affordable and helps keep dry skin feeling hydrated without a heavy finish.
£12.99, superdrug.com
A little winter skincare goes a long way
You don't need a completely new skincare regime every time the seasons change, and I'd always recommend choosing products that suit your skin type. Keep the basics consistent, pay attention to how your complexion feels and make small adjustments where needed.
A few hardworking essentials can make all the difference and remember, more products doesn’t necessarily mean better skin. It's about finding the ones that work for you. And go easy on the actives, if you need advice on whether you’d benefit from skin cycling, check out our article here.
The Wellness Editor verdict: Keep it simple, keep it hydrated and don't forget your SPF. Your summer skincare routine might need a little winter companion, but it doesn't need a complete personality transplant.
