As the temperatures drop, many of us notice a shift in our skin. Dry, flaky, and dull skin can become the norm in the colder months, but why does this happen, and what can be done to keep your skin glowing and hydrated? Let’s explore five key reasons your skin may be drying out in winter—and how you can prevent it.

1. Dryness from Cold, Dry Air

Winter air is notorious for being dry, and combined with low humidity, it pulls moisture from your skin. This lack of moisture causes the skin barrier to weaken, leading to dehydration and dullness.

What you can do:

 Keep your skin hydrated by using a rich moisturizer that locks in moisture. Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to help retain hydration. Don’t forget to reapply throughout the day, especially after washing your face or hands.

2. Reduced Sun Exposure

With shorter days and more time spent indoors, your skin gets less sunlight. This reduced exposure means lower vitamin D levels and less blood circulation, which can result in a tired, pale complexion.

What you can do: 

Although sunlight is a natural way to get vitamin D, you can supplement this with foods rich in vitamin D like fatty fish or fortified products. You can also stimulate circulation by massaging your skin, using a gentle exfoliant, or incorporating exercise into your routine to bring a healthy flush to your complexion.

3. Hot Showers

There’s nothing better than a hot shower to warm up in winter, but it could be doing more harm than good to your skin. Hot water strips your skin of its natural oils, weakening the skin barrier and leading to dryness and irritation.

What you can do: 

Opt for lukewarm water when showering and limit the time spent under the water. Follow up immediately with a moisturizing lotion to lock in moisture before your skin has a chance to dry out completely.

4. Indoor Heating

While keeping your home cozy is important, artificial heating systems zap moisture from the air, which can exacerbate skin dryness. Prolonged exposure to heated air makes it harder for the skin to stay hydrated.

What you can do: 

Use a humidifier to reintroduce moisture into the air in your home. Also, make sure you’re using a hydrating serum or cream that supports your skin’s moisture barrier. Overnight masks are also a great option for giving your skin a moisture boost while you sleep.

5. Comfort Eating

Winter often brings cravings for comfort food—rich, sugary, and processed foods that can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to breakouts and inflamed skin. These indulgences can also leave skin looking dull and dehydrated.

What you can do: 

Try to balance comfort food with nutrient-rich meals that include plenty of vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, help to keep the skin supple and hydrated. A diet rich in antioxidants also helps protect your skin from oxidative stress.

XO,