Dermatologist shares winter skin survival tips for dry, flaky, and dull skin

Cold weather and indoor heating can make skin dry and flaky. Dermatologist Dr Nirupama Parwanda recommends gentle cleansers, rich moisturisers, and a nutrient-rich diet to restore your glow. (Image: Pexels)

Cold weather often forces you to rely on heating. This makes dry, tight, and flaky skin a common winter problem. Nevertheless, looking after your skin in winter doesn’t have to be hard. With some simple changes to your routine and a few clever tricks, your skin can stay soft, healthy, and glowing, even on the coldest days.

"The first thing to do", Dr Nirupama Parwanda, dermatologist and founder, Zolie Skin Clinic, tells Moneycontrol "is switch harsh soaps and foaming washes for gentle, creamy cleansers. Winter is not the time to strip your skin of its natural oils." Cream or milk cleansers are great because they clean your skin without drying it out. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin, and squalane help keep moisture locked in. Think of them as little sponges for your skin, holding onto water so your skin doesn’t get tight or flaky.

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Moisturiser is a must in winter. Dr Parwanda suggests using a rich cream twice a day, especially right after a shower when your skin is still slightly damp. “This helps trap water in your skin and keeps it soft all day,” she says. And don’t forget food and water—what you eat affects your skin too. Drinking plenty of water and eating healthy fats like almonds, walnuts, and avocados, plus green leafy vegetables, helps your skin glow from the inside.

Dr Parwanda shares some winter skin survival tips for dry, flaky, and dull skin:

• Don’t  skip sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sun can damage your skin. Use SPF 30+ daily.
• Try serums and facial oils: Apply a light facial oil or hydrating serum at night. Gentle exfoliation once a week helps remove dead skin cells, but don’t overdo it.
• Watch your showers: Very hot showers strip natural oils. Use warm water instead and moisturise right after. A humidifier indoors can also help keep your skin hydrated.
• Feed your skin from within: Drink lots of water and eat foods rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins for a natural glow.

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Winter doesn’t have to be a nightmare for your skin. Swap harsh products for gentle ones, moisturise smartly, protect from the sun, and eat and drink to nourish your skin. With these simple tricks, your skin can stay soft, smooth, and glowing all winter long.

FAQs on winter skin survival tips:

1. How can I prevent my skin from drying out in winter?

Switch to gentle, creamy cleansers and use a rich moisturiser twice a day, especially after showers.

2. Is it necessary to use sunscreen during winter?

Yes, even on cloudy days, the sun can damage your skin. Use SPF 30+ daily.

3. Can facial oils and serums help during winter?

Yes, applying light facial oils or hydrating serums at night can help keep your skin moisturised.

4. Should I avoid hot showers in winter?

Yes, hot showers strip natural oils from your skin. Use warm water instead and moisturise right after.

5. How can my diet affect my skin during winter?

Drink plenty of water and eat foods rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins to help your skin glow from within.

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