Dr Pauline’s Guide to Winter Skin

As the frosty weather sets in across the Northern Hemisphere, it’s the perfect moment to reassess your skincare routine and make small adjustments that keep skin healthy and resilient against changing environmental conditions.

Low temperatures, low humidity and shifts in the skin’s natural microflora can all disrupt balance - while wind and pollution exacerbate dryness and sensitivity, particularly on the face.

Winter weather affects both the mechanical and physical structure of the skin, leading to reduced hydration and a weakened barrier. Studies show that colder conditions can increase irritation and sensitivity, with drier skin more prone to redness, flakiness and flare-ups - especially for those with underlying conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea.

The good news? With a few targeted changes, you can protect your skin from seasonal stress and maintain a healthy, luminous glow through the coldest months.

Rethink your cleansing routine for winter

As temperatures drop, sebum production slows and the protective lipid barrier becomes thinner, meaning harsh cleansers can quickly strip away what your skin needs most. Switching to a balm or emulsion-based cleanser helps dissolve impurities and makeup while preserving natural hydration.

If your skin is normal to dry, choose a richer texture that leaves skin soft and comfortable. For oily or combination skin, alternate between your regular cleanser and a balm cleanser to balance oil control and moisture retention.

Try our Kale Anti-Ageing Cleanser or Hydrating Peptide Cleanser for a gentle cleanse that respects your skin’s barrier.

Restore hydration and strengthen the barrier

After cleansing, replenishing moisture is crucial. During winter, the skin’s natural hydration levels can drop below 15%, compromising elasticity and barrier function. To restore this balance, layer hydration rather than relying on a single heavy cream.

Look for ingredients such as:

• Ceramides and lipids to reinforce the skin’s barrier

• Natural Moisturising Factor (NMF) enhancers like trehalose and Rose of Jericho to draw and retain moisture

• Humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid for long-lasting hydration

We recommend our Ceramide Moisture Boost Essence to prime and plump, followed by the Radiance Rejuvenating Peptide Serum and Argan Skin Renew Moisturiser to seal in lasting comfort.

Balance the skin’s microbiome

Drier air and central heating can alter the skin’s microbiome, reducing bacterial diversity and increasing levels of Cutibacterium acnes - a bacterium linked to inflammation and breakouts. A balanced microbiome is essential for healthy skin function.

A pH-balanced exfoliator containing probiotics helps smooth the skin’s surface while maintaining microbial harmony. This not only prevents irritation but also improves how well hydrating ingredients absorb.

Our Probiotic Multi-Mineral Repair Mask gently exfoliates and replenishes, supporting both skin barrier and microbiome health.

Boost with vitamins and antioxidants

A strong skin barrier also relies on robust collagen and elastin networks within deeper layers of the dermis - structures supported by vitamins and antioxidants.

• Vitamin C and E protect against free radicals and promote collagen production. Apply a vitamin C serum in the morning and a vitamin E-rich oil at night to boost resilience and glow. Our Argan Skin Rescue is clinically proven to deliver vitamins C and E while locking in hydration.

• Vitamin A derivatives (retinal or retinol) promote gentle cell turnover, helping to smooth texture, restore radiance and counter winter dullness.

• Vitamin D levels can drop with reduced sunlight exposure, so consider a supplement to support skin and mood during darker months.

Support skin health with simple environmental tweaks

Beyond skincare, small lifestyle changes can have a big impact:

• Use a humidifier to keep indoor air hydrated.

• Lower your shower temperature slightly to avoid stripping natural oils.

• Stay hydrated - even mild dehydration affects skin’s tone and texture.

Winter can be one of the most restorative seasons for the skin - a chance to slow down, simplify and nourish. With mindful changes to your daily ritual, you can keep your complexion calm, comfortable and naturally radiant until spring.

Dr Pauline