Transitioning Your Skincare Routine from Summer to Winter

As the seasons change, so do the needs of our skin. The skincare routine that worked for you during the humid summer days may not provide the same results during the cold, dry winter months.

Understanding and adapting to these changes can help maintain radiant and healthy skin year-round.

Here's a guide to transitioning your skincare routine from summer to winter:

1. Choose the right Moisturiser:

   - Summer: Lightweight, water-based moisturizers or gels are preferred as they're less likely to make you feel greasy in the heat.

   - Winter: Switch to richer, thicker creams or ointments that provide an extra layer of protection and hydration against the cold, dry air.

Recommendation: My favorite is Dot & Key Barrier Repair Moisturiser.

2.  Choose the right Cleanser:

   - Summer: You might have gravitated towards deep-cleansing or foaming face washes to combat excess oil and sweat.

   - Winter: Consider gentler, hydrating cleansers that won't strip your skin's natural oils, leaving it feeling tight or dry.

I love Dot & Key Barrier Repair Facewash and Dot & Key Cica Salicylic Face Wash.

3. For exfoliation:

   - While exfoliation is essential in both seasons to remove dead skin cells, in winter, you might want to reduce the frequency or opt for gentler exfoliants to prevent over-drying the skin.

If you love physical exfoliation as much as I do, try Sugar Aquaholic Pore Exfoliating Scrub.

4. Do not miss out on Sun Protection:

   - Summer: High SPF and frequent reapplication, especially after sweating or swimming, are vital.

   - Winter: UV rays can still be harmful even when it's cold outside. Continue using sunscreen, especially on exposed areas, but you might not need to reapply as often if you're mostly indoors.

My combination skin loves Aqualogica Hydrate+ Dewy Sunscreen, and Dot & Key Watermelon Sunscreen.

5. Let's not forget Lip Care:

   - Lips often become chapped or cracked during winter. Introduce a hydrating lip balm, preferably with SPF, and consider overnight lip treatments for extra moisture.

Vaseline is the OG when it comes to lip care, but try Aqualogica Radiance+ Plump Lip Mask and thank me later.

6. Hydration Boost:

   - Consider adding hydrating serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to your winter routine. This ingredient can hold multiple times its weight in water, ensuring skin remains plump and hydrated.

I love Try Moody Hyaluronic Acid Serum, Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum.

7. Eye Cream:

   - The skin around your eyes is delicate and can become even drier during winter. If you don't already use one, consider introducing an eye cream to your routine.

I honestly think eye creams are just expensive moisturisers so I rely on my moisturisers only, comment below if you feel the same.

8. Night-time Nourishment:

   - Winter is the perfect time to use intensive overnight masks or treatments. These products can deeply nourish the skin while you sleep, helping combat the effects of the cold.

You can layer your winter moisturizer and you are good to go.

9. Body Care:

   - Summer: Lightweight lotions might have sufficed.

   - Winter: Shift to richer body butter or creams, focusing especially on commonly dry areas like elbows, knees, and heels.

Try Vaseline Cocoa Body Lotion, I have been using it for 10+ years and it never disappoints.

10. Humidify:

   - Indoor heating systems can zap moisture from the air, increasing skin dryness. Consider using a humidifier in your bedroom or workspace to reintroduce moisture into the environment or if you are using a heater, put a bowl filled with water near you.

11. Diet & Hydration:

   - Drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated from within. Also, incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon and flaxseeds) and antioxidants to support skin health.

Conclusion

The key to successfully transitioning your skincare routine from summer to winter lies in understanding each season's unique challenges. 

Winter skincare is all about protection, hydration, and nourishment. 

By making a few calculated changes, you can ensure your skin remains glowing and healthy, even in the harshest winter months.