Winter brings a host of delightful experiences, from cozy sweaters to roaring fires and engaging books. However, the season can be harsh on our skin, often leading to dryness, dullness, and irritation. The reduced moisture levels in the air during these colder months can exacerbate these issues significantly. Fortunately, there are numerous simple at-home skincare solutions available to safeguard your skin throughout this challenging season.
To gain insights, we consulted with a dozen skincare professionals from across the South, who generously shared their top recommendations for maintaining healthy and radiant skin during winter. Consistent themes emerged, focusing on hydration (both topical and internal), gentle exfoliation, and using products that protect the skin’s natural barrier. Here’s a detailed overview of their invaluable advice!
Expert Skincare Tips from Britt Mims, R.N. at Woods Aesthetics in Nashville, TN
“During the winter months, I prioritize warm showers over hot ones because hot water tends to strip moisture from your skin. Additionally, I consistently practice dermaplaning and follow it up with a SkinCeuticals Biocellulose Mask. This combination effectively exfoliates and hydrates the skin, creating a healthy glow.
For the winter, my top product recommendation is SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 moisturizer. This moisturizer is indispensable for both my patients and myself during the winter months. It delivers exceptional hydration and has an incredibly soothing texture on the skin.”
The SkinCeuticals Biocellulose Mask creates a protective barrier for sensitive or stressed skin. Image: SkinCeuticals
Pro Skincare Advice from Dr. Sarah Sawyer of Dermatology & Laser of Alabama in Birmingham, AL
“Exfoliation is crucial for removing the layer of dead skin that builds up on the surface, which can make your complexion appear dull and fatigued. During winter, when skin can easily become compromised, it’s wise to reduce the use of active ingredients (like retinoids and exfoliants, including alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids) if you notice any signs of dryness, redness, or irritation. I frequently recommend Clear+Brilliant treatments to combat early signs of aging with minimal downtime, enhancing skin tone, reducing uneven pigmentation, and minimizing enlarged pores to visibly brighten your complexion.
Prioritize hydration from the inside out. Look for ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, as they are essential for nourishing and reinforcing your skin barrier. I also suggest using a gentle cleanser, followed by a hydrating hyaluronic acid serum like SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier. Finally, seal in that moisture with an anti-aging cream like SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore to protect your skin barrier effectively.”
Dr. Sarah Sawyer from Dermatology & Laser of Alabama recommends incorporating ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E into your winter skincare. Image: Dermatology & Laser of Alabama
Winter Skincare Strategies from Mary Kathryn Hudson at Private Edition + The Cosmetic Market + Therapy Systems in Nashville, TN
“To revitalize winter skin, my primary tips are to exfoliate and hydrate. For exfoliation, I rely on Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Pads, which I use several nights a week. These pads are among my all-time favorite skincare products. They feature a two-step process: the first step gently exfoliates the skin with a blend of five different alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids to enhance radiance, smooth fine lines, refine pores, and improve overall skin tone and texture. The second step neutralizes and hydrates while delivering powerful anti-aging ingredients for a smooth, even, and balanced complexion. Each time I use this product, my skin looks and feels significantly improved.
For hydration, I recommend the Caudalie Vinosource-Hydra Moisturizing Mask. I particularly love applying a generous layer of this mask when my skin feels dry and parched. After cleansing my face, I apply a thick layer of the mask and sleep in it overnight. When I wake up, my skin appears radiant, my tone looks even, and it feels deeply hydrated.”
Melissa Rhodes from Ona Skincare in Nashville, TN Shares Essential Winter Tips
“Incorporate omega-3 supplements (like fish oil) in your diet to support internal hydration. Avoid taking excessively hot showers, even when it’s chilly outside, as this can severely dry out your skin. Additionally, consider adding a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin, as it helps draw moisture into the skin. We offer a product called Ona Hydrate that also contains peptides for anti-aging and wrinkle reduction — it’s fantastic.
Moreover, winter is an excellent time to continue exfoliating with products like ZO Exfoliating Polish, which contains vitamin E and magnesium crystals to exfoliate while still imparting some hydration. If you experience severely wind-burned or dry skin, the CO2 lift mask can be used at home, utilizing carboxytherapy to infuse hydration and oxygen into the skin.”
Melissa Rhodes from Ona Skincare emphasizes the benefits of omega-3 supplements, like fish oil, for internal hydration. Image: Ona Skincare
Comprehensive Winter Skincare Guidance from The Spa at Rousso Adams in Birmingham, AL
“Be sure to cleanse your face and body with warm water instead of hot water to prevent skin damage. Consider skipping toner or opting for a hydrating toner like PCA Skin’s Hydrating Toner. Additionally, adding a high-quality hyaluronic acid to your skincare routine is vital; options like SkinMedica’s HA5 or Revision’s Hydrating Serum are excellent choices. At night, keep in mind that trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) is accelerated, so ensure you use both your hyaluronic acid and a cream moisturizer like Revision’s Firming Night Treatment before bedtime to lock in moisture.”
Revision’s Hydrating Serum contains two types of hyaluronic acid, which are essential for combating winter dryness, combined with a blend of powerful natural fruit extracts and antioxidants for smooth and refreshed skin. Image: Revision Skincare
Transformative Winter Skincare Tips from Robin Haney at Apropos Day Spa in Nashville, TN
“I always advise my clients to adapt their skincare routine for the changing seasons, just as we do with our wardrobes. In winter, layering targeted products is essential to supplement the skin with antioxidants such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides—these fatty acids nourish and hydrate the skin. Always follow with a moisturizer and SPF, even in winter! A tinted moisturizer like Revision Intellishade can replace foundation, or you can opt for Jane Iredale Mineral Powder.
Don’t forget your lips; using lip balms with shea butter and jojoba oil provides nourishment and hydration. These are far healthier for your lips than waxy balms or petroleum jelly. Apply throughout the day, especially before bed. You can also perform a gentle lip scrub once a week using brown sugar and coconut oil—rub it gently over your lips for about 30 seconds, then lick or rinse it off.”
Don’t neglect your SPF, even during winter! Robin recommends using a tinted moisturizer or light powder containing SPF, like this Jane Iredale Mineral Powder. Image: Nordstrom
Practical Winter Skincare Insights from Karee Hays at Karee Hays Esthetics in Nashville, TN
“As the weather shifts, it’s important to switch from foamy cleansers to creamy cleansers to prevent unnecessary drying and flakiness. After applying your moisturizer and vitamin C in the morning, I suggest sealing it with an oil to retain that added moisture. My current favorite is the Augustinus Bader Face Oil. After that, don’t forget to apply your sunscreen, as this step is crucial even in winter.
For moisturizers, look for those that contain AHA, which helps soothe the skin during colder months. It might be wise to reduce retinoid use to once or twice a week in winter. Apply a pea-sized amount on damp skin, or consider switching to retinol, which is generally gentler. I also enjoy using Glytone’s Exfoliating Body Wash in the shower several times a week with a soft sponge to eliminate dead skin cells across the body. Lastly, as we crank up the heat indoors, implementing a humidifier is essential to combat dry skin. I prefer the Dyson Air Purifier Humidifier + Cool.”
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Sienna Blake is a licensed aesthetic consultant and beauty writer specializing in cosmetic surgery advancements and non-invasive treatments. With a background in dermatology and over eight years of industry experience, Sienna is passionate about helping people achieve confidence through informed beauty decisions. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Health Sciences and regularly collaborates with top plastic surgeons to stay at the forefront of aesthetic innovations. Outside of her work, Sienna enjoys traveling, skincare research, and practicing Pilates.
