Winter is here, and while we’re all pulling out our cozy sweaters and sipping hot cocoa by the fire to warm our hearts, it’s important to remember that our skin needs a little extra love during this season, too. It’s so easy to make skincare mistakes when the weather is cold and dry, but with a little extra care, you can keep that gorgeous glow even when the temperature drops. Here are the top five winter skincare mistakes you might be making and how to avoid them.
1. Using the Same Skincare Routine as Summer
Let’s face it: the routine that worked for you in summer won’t cut it in winter. The colder air is drier and harsher on your skin, and indoor heating only adds to the dryness. That lightweight moisturizer you loved in July might not provide enough hydration when the winter chill kicks in.
How to avoid it:
It’s time to up your hydration game. Look for products that include ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe leaf extract to add deep hydration when it’s needed most. Hyaluronic acid is a moisture-binding superstar that draws water into your skin, while aloe vera soothes and moisturizes, helping to calm any irritation or redness caused by the cold.
For an easy routine that’ll keep you glowing during the coldest months, start with a gentle aloe-infused cleanser, then apply a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid for deep hydration.
2. Skipping Sunscreen
Just because the sun isn’t shining as hot in the winter doesn’t mean it’s not affecting your skin. The harmful UVA and UVB rays that cause premature aging and skin damage are still present, even on overcast days. And, if you’re in the snow, those rays can reflect off the surface and hit your skin twice as hard!
How to avoid it:
Wear sunscreen every day! Make it a habit to apply an SPF of at least 30 every morning, even in the winter months. If you’re not already using vitamin C in your skincare, add a vitamin C serum to your routine. Vitamin C doesn’t just brighten your complexion, it also helps protect your skin from the effects of the sun, making it a perfect complement to sunscreen.
3. Taking Long, Hot Showers
We’ve all been there. It’s freezing outside, and nothing sounds more comforting than a long, hot shower to warm you up. But unfortunately, hot water strips away the natural oils from your skin, leaving it dry, tight, and prone to irritation.
How to avoid it:
As tempting as it is, try to keep your showers short and use lukewarm water instead of hot. Then after your shower, pat yourself dry and immediately apply a moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in all that moisture.
4. Over-Exfoliating
Exfoliating might be the key to keeping your skin smooth and getting rid of dead skin cells, but in winter, you need to be extra cautious. Over-exfoliating can strip your skin’s protective barrier, leaving it vulnerable to the cold, dry air. This can lead to irritation, redness, and even breakouts.
How to avoid it:
Instead of using harsh scrubs, opt for a gentle exfoliating mask and limit exfoliation to once or twice a week. Look for natural, gentle ingredients like raw honey or coffee grounds, which naturally exfoliate without being abrasive and can boost blood circulation.
5. Forgetting to Hydrate from Within
One of the biggest skincare mistakes in winter isn’t even directly related to your skincare routine—it’s forgetting to hydrate your body from the inside! In the colder months, we’re less likely to feel thirsty, but that doesn’t mean our bodies need less water. Dehydration can lead to dull, dry skin, making all the expensive products in the world feel like they’re doing nothing.
How to avoid it:
Fill your favorite water bottle and make it a habit to sip on it throughout the day, even when you’re not feeling thirsty. Herbal teas are another great option during winter, as many of them contain skin-loving ingredients like chamomile and turmeric, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties. Whatever your beverage of choice, make sure you’re getting enough.
Final Thoughts
Winter skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require some extra care. Whether that’s more hydration, gentler exfoliation, or just a little extra protection from the elements, you’ve got this! By avoiding these common mistakes and making a few adjustments, you can keep your skin healthy, glowing, and protected, no matter how cold it gets outside.
Head back to the Sabila Skincare Blog for more tips, tricks and expert advice, or explore our exclusive range of natural skincare products crafted to harmonize with your skin’s natural rhythm and unlock its glorious potential.
