Is Your Skin Ready for Winter: A Checklist from a Cosmetologist 0 30

To maintain health and comfort, it is worth reviewing your skincare routine. Anastasia Razbezhkina — a dermatologist and cosmetologist — shared what is included in the basic winter checklist.

Gentle Cleansing: Do You Still Want Your Skin to "Squeak"?

Hygiene should be gentle, so do not confuse cleanliness with aggression. "In cold weather, it is especially important to use sulfate-free products with a neutral pH that do not damage the lipid barrier," says the expert.

If you feel the urgent need to apply cream after washing your face, that is already a warning sign.

Toner: Refreshing or Drying?

In winter, do not treat inflammations with alcohol-based toners. The skin needs hydration, restoration, and soothing. The cosmetologist recommends paying attention to formulas with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol — without harsh components.

Switching to a Thicker Cream

In the cold, we take care of our body’s comfort but forget that the same rules apply to the skin. A light summer cream that worked well in July may be useless in November.

"Icy air, wind, and heating increase transepidermal water loss. Apply richer formulations — with oils, ceramides, squalane. Do not be afraid of thickness: it is not about a greasy film, but about a protective barrier," says Anastasia Razbezhkina.

Lips and Eye Area: Maximum Attention

We often forget about them — and that’s a mistake! In winter, lips and eyelids especially need care — these are the most vulnerable areas. If your lips are constantly dry, it means they lack protection. And no, endlessly licking them in the cold will not help. Our expert recommends choosing balms with oils, wax, and panthenol to prevent cracking. Don’t forget about scrubs — they will help remove flakiness. Use them about once a week.

The area around the eyes also requires hydration and care, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors or in dry rooms. For the eyelids, it is advisable to buy a gentle cream with nourishing ingredients and remember to protect them from the cold.

Additional Products: Masks, Oils, Serums

In the winter chill, the skin experiences significant stress, and there is a great way to pamper it. It is not necessary to use everything at once. However, adding moisturizing masks, oils (such as jojoba, squalane, rosehip), and serums with hyaluronic acid can significantly improve the condition of the epidermis.

"Moisturizing masks with oils work wonders, preventing dryness and flakiness. Nourishing formulations with honey or avocado saturate the skin with vitamins and give it a healthy glow. Clay masks are perfect for combating inflammation. The main thing is not to layer products thoughtlessly but to build your care according to needs," explains Anastasia.

Humidity: We Breathe Dry and Dusty Air

Central heating dries the air indoors to a level where no orchid can survive. We are certainly not flowers, but that doesn’t make it easier for the skin. A humidifier is the best beauty gadget for winter. No empty promises — just physiology.

"It maintains an optimal microclimate, preventing excessive dryness. This means the skin will suffer less from flakiness and unpleasant tightness. Moreover, normal humidity helps maintain the natural barrier, increases elasticity, and improves appearance," emphasizes the cosmetologist.

SPF — All Year Round. No "Buts"

Yes, we have mentioned this several times, but we still remind you. Protection from ultraviolet rays in winter is just as important as in the summer months. Even if there is no sun, even if you spend the whole day in the office! Remember that radiation passes through clouds and glass, reflects off white snow, destroying collagen and provoking pigmentation. The cosmetologist advises using products with SPF 30 and higher in any weather. Don’t forget to buy a special lip balm to keep them soft and well-groomed. SPF cosmetics are a daily essential.

What to Do If Half of the Points Are Missed?

Don’t worry, you can restructure your care at any time. Start with the most important: gentle cleansing, a thick cream, and protection from dry air. The rest can follow step by step. It is best to consult a specialist who can tailor a care plan to your needs.

In the cold season, the skin starts to act up like a child denied sweets. To support it, use quality cosmetics. And on weekends, arrange an evening spa with fragrant tea, pleasant treatments, and your favorite movie. With warmth and care, your skin will not fear the winter winds — the right care will keep it smooth and radiant even in the frost!