Winter Skin — How to Protect Your Complexion in Cold Weather

Last updated: 5 March 2026

The cold months present unique challenges for skin health. Central heating, harsh winds, temperature fluctuations, and reduced humidity can leave skin dry, sensitised, and dull. Here is how to protect and nourish your complexion through winter.

Why Winter Affects Your Skin

Cold air holds less moisture than warm air, whilst central heating strips indoor humidity to as low as 20% (healthy skin prefers 40–60%). This double assault on environmental moisture leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), compromised skin barrier function, and dehydration.

Winter Skincare Adjustments

Switch to Richer Moisturisers

Replace lightweight gel moisturisers with cream or balm formulations containing ceramides, squalane, and fatty acids. These occlusives prevent moisture loss better than humectants alone in dry environments.

Layer Hydration

Apply a hyaluronic acid serum on damp skin before your moisturiser. In low-humidity environments, follow with an occlusive layer to prevent HA from drawing moisture from your skin.

Gentle Cleansing

Reduce cleansing frequency and switch to cream or milk cleansers. Avoid foaming cleansers that strip natural oils.

Do Not Forget SPF

UV radiation is present year-round. Winter sun combined with reflective snow can actually increase UV exposure. Continue applying SPF 30–50 daily.

Professional Winter Treatments

• HydraFacial: Deep hydration and gentle exfoliation
• Profhilo: Injectable hyaluronic acid for intense hydration
• LED therapy: Reduces redness and promotes healing
• Chemical peels: Winter is the ideal time as reduced UV exposure means lower pigmentation risk

Book a winter skin consultation at Axiom Aesthetics.

Medical Disclaimer: Skincare advice should be personalised. Reviewed by the Axiom Aesthetics Clinical Team, February 2026.