Prepare your skin for harsh winter with these quick hydrating hacks, makeup prep tips

Winter skincare tips: Always apply your moisturiser while your skin is still damp from a shower, this helps the product absorb better and provides an extra layer of hydration (Images: Rushali Yadav)

Come winter and the struggles of dry, dull skin follow suit. The crisp cold air, heating indoors, and reduced humidity all contribute to the loss of moisture, leaving our skin feeling tight and flaky. That's why proper hydration becomes even more crucial during these colder months.

It’s important to take extra care of your skin during winter, saya Rushali Yadav, model, TV actor, and entrepreneur. “The cold air outside, the chilly winds, and the dry heat indoors can all strip moisture from your skin, making it feel tight, dry, and dull. Keeping your skin hydrated and protected helps prevent these issues and keeps your skin looking and feeling its best,” she says.

Yadav suggests the following tips to keep your skin healthy and soft in winter:

• Moisturiser: When it comes to fighting dryness, a good moisturiser is non-negotiable. In winter, your skin loses moisture faster, so opt for a thick, nourishing formula. Look for creams rich in shea butter or ceramides. These ingredients lock in moisture and create a protective barrier against the harsh winter air. Always apply your moisturiser while your skin is still damp from a shower, this helps the product absorb better and provides an extra layer of hydration.

• Hydrating serum: This is your best friend for that fresh, plump skin. Hyaluronic acid is an excellent option as it draws moisture into the skin and keeps it hydrated all day. Layer a hyaluronic acid serum under your moisturiser for an extra boost of hydration. Remember that serums are lighter and penetrate deeper than regular creams, making them perfect for targeting specific skin concerns like dryness or dullness.

• Sunscreen: It is a must-have for every season. Though the winter sun may feel weak, UV rays are still present and can cause long-term damage to your skin. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even if you’re just indoors or running errands. Apply sunscreen as the final step in your skincare routine, before makeup, to ensure full protection against harmful UV rays.

• Home remedies: You cannot ignore them. While skincare products are great, sometimes the best remedies come from your kitchen. Coconut oil is a tried-and-true hydrator for extremely dry spots, such as elbows, knees, and even the face. Use coconut oil as an overnight treatment for your dry patches. Wake up to softer, more hydrated skin.

• Glow, inside out: What you eat also plays a big role in keeping your skin healthy. Add foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C as they help nourish your skin from within. Snack on walnuts (rich in omega-3s) and citrus fruits like oranges and lemons (rich in vitamin C). A diet rich in these nutrients supports skin health, reduces inflammation, and promotes collagen production.

• Make-up prep: Before applying makeup, make sure your skin is well-hydrated and protected. A smooth, moisturised base ensures that your makeup goes on evenly and lasts longer throughout the day. After moisturising and applying serum, don’t forget sunscreen. Once your sunscreen has absorbed, you’re ready for makeup application. Opt for a hydrating primer if you want a smooth, dewy finish that complements your skincare routine and keeps your makeup looking fresh.