Glow in the gloom: A guide to hydrated skin in winter

Top tips to keep your skin healthy and hydrated in the brisk North East climate.

Lonnie Bridge
15th February 2024
Image credit: Pinterest, @lifeashsuan

Dry season would normally make you think of sandy beaches and hot sun. However, when it comes to the skin it is a very wintery issue. Cold weather and wind have a very low humidity. Paired with an increase in indoor heating, our skin becomes very dry and sometimes itchy. Whilst I don’t think any of us want to turn the heating off to prevent it drying our skin, there are other solutions to keep your skin hydrated throughout the winter.

Do not over cleanse your skin!

It is important to cleanse your skin to prevent a buildup of dirt. However, the moisture on the surface of the skin in the morning is a natural hydration produced to repair and nourish. I know it may feel ‘dirty’, but in these dry months it is best to double cleanse at night and NOT cleanse in the morning to allow the natural oils to hydrate your skin throughout the day.

Toning... and I don’t mean in the gym

Toning should be done after cleansing in the evening and first thing in the morning. I use a liquid toner on a cotton pad because of its gentle exfoliating qualities. Retinol is a popular compound in skincare because it unclogs pores whilst exfoliating which increases collagen production and makes the skin look plump. Toner does not have to be expensive either. Aldi have produced a ‘Glow Retinol Toner’ for £2.99 which I have been using to achieve glowing and hydrated skin.

Winter is serum season

Hyaluronic acid serum should be on all our skin care regimes in the winter months. Applying it after toning both in the morning and at night creates a barrier that locks in the skin's natural moisture and allows self-hydration even when trekking to uni in the freezing North East wind.  My personal favourite is the INKEY List hyaluronic acid serum which retails at £5.99.

SPF... 50+ or Nothing

Applying a moisturiser after your serums increases the moisture on your skins surface, adding an extra barrier to the cold air. Any moisturiser is good, but it is beneficial to use a water based one if you are prone to oily skin. SPF is often overlooked in the winter months. Experts recommend a factor 50+ for everyday use all year round, making Bondi Sands face suncream (priced at £7.99) a perfect option for student skincare. 

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