The Impact of Weather on Dry Skin: How to Adjust Your Routine
Have you noticed your skin feeling tight, flaky, or irritated as the seasons change? Our skin feels the effects of the shifting weather just as much as we do. From chilly winds to dry indoor heat, weather plays a significant role in how our skin behaves—especially when it comes to dryness. If seasonal changes are leaving your complexion less than radiant, it’s time to adjust your routine. Here’s what you need to know about the weather’s impact on dry skin and how to keep it hydrated and healthy year-round.
Why Does Weather Affect Skin Moisture?
As temperatures change, so do moisture levels. Cold winter air holds less humidity, which pulls moisture from your skin. This combination of dry air and dry indoor heating creates the perfect conditions for dry, irritated skin. On the other hand, while warm summer temperatures often hold more humidity, leaving moisture behind, excessive sun exposure and air conditioning can also lead to dehydration. It takes time for your skin to adjust from one season to the next with various temperatures, humidity levels, and other environmental factors, increasing the risk of temperamental skin.
Combatting Dry Skin in Cold Conditions
Weather doesn’t have to stop your skin from being its best. With the right support, your skin can glow while feeling hydrated and radiant.
Hydrate from Within. Drink plenty of water, especially during winter when you may not feel as thirsty. Staying hydrated helps your skin retain moisture.
Switch to Gentle Cleansers. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for creamy or hydrating cleansers that clean without compromising your skin barrier. We often recommend Hydrinity’s PRELUDE Facial Treatment Cleanser or SkinBetter Science’s Gel Cleanser.
Layer Your Moisture. In colder months, layer a hydrating serum under a thicker moisturizer. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin that attract and lock in moisture. We recommend layering with Hydrinity’s Renewing HA Serum with PPM⁶ Technology or Restorative HA Serum with PPM⁶ Technology.
Protect Your Skin Barrier. In extreme weather, your skin barrier is your first line of defense. Use products with niacinamide or fatty acids to strengthen it. We recommend using moisturizers like ZO Skin Heath’s Hydrating Creme or DefenAge’s Pro 24/7 Barrier Balance Anti-Aging Cream.
Use a Humidifier. Combat the drying effects of indoor heating by using a humidifier in your home to maintain moisture levels.
Adjusting Your Routine by Season
It’s important to remember that with each season, your skin will have different needs. As we enter the winter months, focus on richer, more nourishing products and try incorporating overnight treatments for extra care. Once we head into the summer, you can transition into more lightweight moisturizers, using hydrating mists to refresh your skin throughout the day alongside a strong SPF.
When to Seek Professional Help
Weather changes are inevitable, but dry skin doesn’t have to be. An aesthetician can help you design tailored advice, routines, and treatments to address your unique skin concerns. With a thoughtful routine and a bit of extra care, you can maintain a hydrated, healthy complexion no matter the season. Take the time to adjust your skincare routine to work with the weather, not against it, and your skin will thank you. Schedule a consultation with our aestheticians to see which treatments best suit your skincare goals this season.
