Winter skincare and makeup tips: Simple ways to stay hydrated, avoid dry skin

Benefits of sunscreen: To protect your skin, always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher (Image: Canva)

Come winter, and your skin may start to show signs of dullness. You might notice dry patches or a rough texture, often accompanied by redness and irritation. It’s easy to ignore these subtle symptoms, but dry, flaky skin can lead to discomfort and affect the look and feel of your skin.

As the temperatures drop, your skin requires extra care. Winter air, which is lower in humidity, strips moisture from the skin, leaving it feeling parched and vulnerable. Indoor heating can further dry out your skin, while harsh winds cause irritation and sensitivity. This makes it essential to adopt a skincare routine that focuses on maintaining hydration and protecting your skin from these environmental stressors.

Winter skin care is all about hydration, says Dheeraj Bansal, Co-Founder of Recode Studios, an online store for beauty and cosmetics. “During the colder months, it is important to keep your body and skin healthy. When opting for skin care products, invest in nourishing products that keep your skin moisturised and shield it from the harsh elements,” he adds.

Also read | Natural face oils: Use jojoba, rosehip, almond oils for smooth, healthy and glowing skin

Bansal shares tips on how to keep your skin hydrated and your makeup flawless throughout the winter:

• Hydrate your skin: A good skincare regimen that emphasises hydration should be your first step. A moisturising serum containing hyaluronic acid may be used after using a mild cleanser. To get a smooth surface for makeup, seal in moisture with a thick moisturiser that is high in ceramides.

• Exfoliate, but don’t overdo it: Winter can cause flaky skin, making you want to exfoliate more often. However, too much exfoliation can strip away your skin's natural oils. Instead, use a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week, like a chemical exfoliator with lactic acid. This will help remove dead skin cells without irritating your skin.

• Swap matte for dewy foundations: Steer clear of thick, matte foundations in the winter. Choose tinted moisturisers or light foundations as they cover without sticking to areas that are dry. A radiant look can also be achieved by mixing a drop of face oil into your foundation.

• Layer it smart: Strategically applying layers of makeup may have a huge impact. To fight dryness, start with a moisturising primer. Apply cream-based cosmetics, such as eyeshadow and blush, as they look natural on winter skin. To keep everything in place and maintain the fresh appearance of your skin, finish with a setting spray.

• Your lips seek attention: Even the most perfect appearance might be ruined by cracked lips. Go for a nutritious lip mask and leave it on all night. Apply a moisturising lip balm underneath your lipstick during the day. Select lipsticks with a satiny, creamy texture to maintain the suppleness and softness of your pout.

• Sunscreen is a must, even in winter: The UV rays can still harm your skin during winter, whether it’s cloudy or the sun’s reflection off snow. To protect your skin, always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

• Don’t ignore the oils: Include face oils in your routine for added radiance. For an extra boost, sprinkle a few drops into your moisturiser or apply them as the last step in your skincare routine. Jojoba and rosehip oils are great for battling dryness.

• Hands, knees, elbows: Make sure you don’t  overlook the body while you concentrate on facial skincare. After using a creamy body wash, apply a thick body butter. Hands, knees, and elbows should also receive a special treatment in winter because they tend to dry up more quickly.