Dermatologist’s Guide to Winter Skincare Routine for All Skin Types
As the temperature drops and the air becomes dry, your skin begins to feel the change almost instantly. Winter brings cozy sweaters and hot coffee — but also dryness, flakiness, and dullness. That’s why adjusting your skincare routine to suit the season is crucial.
At Skin Savvy Clinic, Varanasi, we see many patients who struggle with winter-related skin concerns every year. Whether your skin is dry, oily, combination, or sensitive, here’s a dermatologist-approved guide to help you keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing all season long.
1. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser
During winter, harsh soaps or foaming cleansers can strip your skin’s natural oils, making it dry and itchy.
Opt for creamy or hydrating cleansers that cleanse without over-drying.
Look for ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid — they help retain moisture.
Avoid alcohol-based products, as they can worsen dryness.
Pro Tip: If your skin feels tight after washing, it’s time to change your cleanser.
2. Moisturize Immediately After Washing
Your moisturizer works best when applied on slightly damp skin — this locks in hydration.
For dry skin, use thick, cream-based moisturizers with shea butter, ceramides, or squalane.
For oily or acne-prone skin, choose a light, non-comedogenic gel moisturizer with niacinamide or panthenol.
Combination skin can benefit from layering — a lightweight lotion during the day and a richer cream at night.
At Skin Savvy, we recommend moisturizers based on your skin type and environmental needs, especially if you have conditions like eczema or rosacea.
3. Don’t Skip Sunscreen
Many people assume sunscreen isn’t needed in winter — a big mistake!
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through clouds and windows, leading to premature aging and pigmentation.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily.
Reapply every 2–3 hours if you’re outdoors.
For oily skin, go for matte or gel-based sunscreens; for dry skin, choose moisturizing SPF formulas.
Pro Tip: Sunscreen is just as important in winter as it is in summer.
4. Add a Hydrating Serum
Cold air can make your skin dull and tight. Adding a serum can boost hydration levels.
Look for hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin B5 serums to help attract and retain moisture.
Apply it after cleansing and before moisturizing for best results.
Avoid using too many actives like retinol or strong acids, which can make your skin more sensitive during winter.
5. Protect Your Lips and Hands
Your lips and hands are most exposed to cold, dry air and tend to crack easily.
Use a rich lip balm with shea butter or petroleum jelly several times a day.
For hands, use a non-greasy hand cream after washing to restore moisture.
Avoid washing with hot water — it strips natural oils and worsens dryness.
6. Use a Humidifier Indoors
Heaters and dry air inside your home can dehydrate your skin. Using a humidifier helps maintain moisture in the environment and prevents your skin from drying out.
This small change can make a big difference in keeping your skin soft and supple.
7. Nourish Your Skin from Within
Your skin reflects your diet. In winter, increase your intake of:
Omega-3 fatty acids (found in flaxseeds, walnuts, and fish)
Vitamin E and C (for skin repair and radiance)
Plenty of water and herbal teas to keep your body hydrated from within
8. Professional Skin Treatments for Winter
Winter is actually the best time to pamper your skin with dermatologist treatments because the sun exposure is minimal. At Skin Savvy Clinic, we recommend:
Hydrafacials and Hydrating Peels – to restore lost glow.
Laser Skin Rejuvenation – for pigmentation or sun damage repair.
Mesotherapy or PRP – to deeply nourish dry, dull skin.
These treatments are customized after a thorough skin analysis to ensure you get safe, visible results.
Conclusion
Winter can be harsh on your skin, but with the right routine and expert care, it’s easy to maintain a healthy glow.
Focus on hydration, gentle care, and protection — and let your skin thrive even in cold weather.
If you’re struggling with persistent dryness, dullness, or irritation this winter, visit Skin Savvy Clinic, Varanasi for a personalized consultation. Together, we’ll create a skincare plan that keeps your skin smooth, healthy, and radiant all season long.
For more information please connect with us:
Hospital’s Name: Skin Savvy by Dr Garima Varanasi
Address: Malviya kunj, SHARABH HOSPITAL, B31/13 D-P, Saket Nagar Colony, Lanka, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005
Contact Number: +91-8808872742
Email Id: contact@skinsavvybydrgarima.com
Working Days & Hours: Mon – Sat(11am–7 pm) , Sunday(12pm–4 pm)