Winter hydration: Doctor explains how you can keep your skin hydrated

Winter skincare regimens must be more deliberate and strategically formulated for maximum skin care with richer and emollient formulas. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

Winter is the time that our skin loses moisture most quickly. If temperatures are dropping, harsh winds are blowing and indoor heating is weakening your skin barrier; hydration is key. Your skin can remain glowing and healthy throughout the winter with proper care.

Winter means a whole set of new challenges for your skin to stay healthy and hydrated. Lowered temperatures are usually accompanied by lower levels of humidity, which results in less moisture in the atmosphere for your skin to absorb. Indoor heating is essential to stay warm, but it also sucks moisture out of the air and your skin becomes dry, flaky and at times irritated. For many, the regular routines and favourites are often just not enough in the winter as we have to take more nourishing care of our skin for that extra protection.

Hydration is not just about slathering on lotion — it’s about understanding how external factors, lifestyle habits and product selection affect your skin’s natural barrier. When your barrier function is impaired, it causes the skin to lose water more easily resulting in dryness, tightness and irritation. This is also why winter skincare regimens must be more deliberate and strategically formulated for maximum skin care with richer, emollient formulas; gentler cleansing techniques; and real-life changes that champion your healthiest skin.

“No matter what type of skin you have (be it dry, oily, combination or sensitive) giving your skin the proper care to keep it soft and elastic is absolutely necessary in winter. With careful planning and regular application, you can successfully avoid experiencing dry, irritated skin throughout holiday season,” says founder and Senior Dermatologist at Revive Skincare Radhika Narang.

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Switch to a Hydrating Cleanser

In the winter, foaming cleansers can remove natural oils from the skin. Choose hydrating cleansers like creams or gels, which cleanse without harming the moisture barrier.

Use a Rich, Barrier-Strengthening Moisturizer

Opt for products that have ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin. These ingredients are designed to seal in hydration and strengthen the protective barrier your skin depends on when it’s extra chilly.

Add Some Facial Oil for Added Nourishment

Facial oils like squalane, jojoba or rosehip provide an additional hit of moisture. They help lock in the moisturizer and keep your skin from losing water by evaporation.

Humidify Your Indoor Environment

Indoor heating systems add to the sitch by ridding the air of moisture, which is going to dry out your skin. A humidifier replenishes the air with moisture to hydrate your skin in its natural environment.

Stay Hydrated from Within

Staying hydrated with water, herbal teas and hydrating foods (like fruits, veggies and soups) will help to maintain skin’s moisture levels from the inside out.

Use Sunscreen Even in Winter

This time of year, the winter sun and its reflected UV rays can wreak havoc on your complexion and impair your moisture barrier. Daily SPF protects your skin’s general well-being and hydration.

Avoid Long, Hot Showers

Hot water washes away the natural oils that help hold moisture in. Take warm showers then moisturize right after to keep skin hydrated.

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FAQs on why keeping skin hydrated is essential:

1. Why is skin hydration important?

Hydrated skin stays soft, supple, and maintains a healthy barrier that protects against damage and irritation.

2. What happens when the skin is dehydrated?

It becomes dull, tight, flaky, itchy, and more prone to fine lines and sensitivity.

3. Does hydration help slow ageing?

Yes, well-hydrated skin appears smoother and can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and early signs of ageing.

4. How can one keep their skin hydrated?

Use moisturisers, drink enough water, avoid long hot showers, and choose gentle cleansers that don’t strip oils.

5. Can all skin types benefit from hydration?

Absolutely—whether oily, dry, or combination, every skin type needs proper moisture to stay healthy.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.