As the temps decrease this season, our bodies react with tight, dry skin, chapped lips, and cracked heels—natural responses to the seasonal shift. Cold air holds less moisture, and indoor heating systems further reduce humidity levels. This lack of moisture in the air contributes to dry skin. Plus, winter winds can strip away the skin's natural oils, leading to increased dryness and dehydration. It isn’t just the cold weather— spending time in overheated indoor spaces can exacerbate dry skin, as the excessive heat can lead to moisture loss.
We did the research, and thankfully, you only need to tweak (not entirely change) your body care routine to keep your skin happy and healthy, conditioned, and safe from any dramatic revolts or flare-ups.
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Moisturise well and religiously
A simple yet effective measure is to consistently moisturise your entire body. While we often focus on facial skincare, the body is frequently neglected, especially during winter, resulting in dryness. Opt for a rich cream or a body lotion enriched with soothing, nourishing ingredients, or oils to keep your body well-hydrated and grateful.
Take extra care of extremities like hands and feet during cold weather
Cracked heels are the bane of one’s existence any time of the year and become even more of a problem in the winter for obvious reasons. To combat this woe, you can try using a foot-specific cream for the soles of your feet, your heels and in between your toes and cuticles. A good hand cream can also provide relief for your hands on dry days.
Don’t use very hot water in the bath
Harsh, hot water can further dry out and even dehydrate your skin (yes, there’s a difference.) Opt for tepid, lukewarm water instead. Another thing to look out for in the shower is soaps that contain sulfates, SLES and parabens that strip the skin of its natural moisture. Avoid these ingredients and try and bathe instead with cleansers and body washes that leave the skin hydrated.
If you’re still wondering whether your body needs sunscreen in the winter, the short answer is yes
The long answer: While the sun’s rays may not feel as warm in the winter, its more harmful effects can still penetrate your skin resulting in photoaging: that means fine lines, wrinkles and sunspots. We’re also learning that the ozone layer is thinnest in winters, so don’t skip sunscreen at this time.
Don’t over exfoliate, but do exfoliate every once in a while
You may not want to flood your skin with chemical exfoliants or irritate it with body scrubs too often. But to get back that radiance and glow for your body, try and use a gentle exfoliator, and follow that up with a soothing, calming body lotion.
Drink enough water
You do not lose as much water to sweating in the cold months as you do in summer, but keeping the body replenished with fluids is a good idea still. It keeps things moving, looks after your health in general and makes sure your skin remains smooth and supple even in the winter.
