As winter approaches, complaints of dry, itchy, and dull skin become increasingly common. Cold winds, low humidity, and indoor heating all work against the skin’s natural moisture barrier, leaving it feeling
tight and uncomfortable. But does this mean you need to overhaul your skincare routine entirely? Dermatologists say not quite, what’s needed are thoughtful seasonal adjustments, not a complete reset.
According to Dr Swapna Kunduru, Senior Consultant Dermatologist and Trichologist, CARE Hospitals, winter skincare is about compensating for increased moisture loss. During colder months, the skin loses hydration faster, which can lead to dryness, cracked lips, and even rashes. Continuing with lightweight summer products often isn’t enough. She advises switching to a mild cleanser and prioritising moisturisation. “The most important step in winter is using a richer cream or lotion that keeps the skin soft for longer,” she explains, adding that applying moisturiser immediately after bathing helps lock in moisture.
One of the most common misconceptions, Dr. Kunduru points out, is skipping sunscreen in winter. UV rays remain active year-round and can still cause pigmentation, tanning, and premature ageing, even on colder or cloudy days. She also cautions against very hot showers, which can further strip the skin of its natural oils.
Echoing this balanced approach, Dr. Adithi Jain, Consultant Dermatologist, CK Birla Hospitals, emphasises that the core pillars of skincare cleansing, moisturising, sun protection, and targeted treatments remain unchanged across seasons. What does change is the texture, formulation, and frequency of use. In winter, cold air and indoor heating weaken the skin barrier, increasing water loss even in people with oily or combination skin.
Dr Jain recommends gentler, non-foaming cleansers and advises avoiding products containing ingredients like neem extracts, glycolic acid derivatives, or strong vitamin C formulations during winter, as these can exacerbate dryness. Moisturisers should be richer and include barrier-repairing ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and natural oils like jojoba or shea butter. Over-cleansing, excessive exfoliation, and hot showers, she warns, can worsen irritation.
She also highlights a lesser-known factor: blue light from screens. “Sunscreen is often neglected in winter, but UV rays and even blue light from mobile phones and laptops, contribute to premature ageing,” she notes, recommending daily sunscreen use even indoors. Lip and hand care, she adds, deserve special attention, as thinner skin in these areas loses moisture faster in winter.
From a clinical perspective, Dr Nirupama Parwanda, Dermatologist and Founder, Zolie Skin Clinic, explains that winter brings physiological changes in the skin. Low humidity, cold winds, and indoor heating not only dry out the skin but also weaken its protective barrier, increasing the likelihood of eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis flare-ups. Her winter recommendations focus on both restoring and protecting this barrier.
Dr. Parwanda suggests replacing foaming cleansers with gentle, non-foaming alternatives that preserve natural oils. Moisturisers rich in ceramides and humectants such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or urea help draw water into the skin and keep it there. For very dry or sensitive skin, thicker creams or barrier-repair ointments used at night can be particularly effective. Hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid or peptides may also help reduce winter-related sensitivity. Like the other experts, she stresses the importance of daily sunscreen use, noting that UV, visible, and infrared light continue to contribute to pigmentation and photoageing in winter.
The consensus is clear: winter skincare doesn’t require an entirely new routine. Instead, it calls for mindful tweaks, gentler cleansing, richer moisturisation, consistent sun protection, and extra care for vulnerable areas like lips and hands. Listening to your skin and adapting to seasonal needs is far more effective than piling on products. With the right adjustments, healthy, comfortable skin is achievable all winter long.
