After a long, hot summer, it’s almost a relief to feel that chill in the air as winter begins. But as the seasons shift, so too does your skin — and not always in a good way.

If your skin feels drier, tighter, or more sensitive, you’re not imagining things. A 2018 Danish study published in The British Journal of Dermatology confirmed that seasonal changes affect the skin barrier. During winter, skin tends to be rougher, drier, and more prone to irritation, with weakened barrier function. This explains why conditions like eczema and rosacea often worsen in colder months. (1)

As someone who frequently discusses skin health on podcasts, radio, and TV, I know how often these concerns come up in winter. So, here are some practical tips I regularly share with my audiences.

🔹 1. Avoid Soap

Soap strips the skin’s protective “acid mantle” by increasing its pH, disrupting the tight junctions between cells and encouraging water loss. Switch to a gentle, soap-free cleanser that maintains your skin’s natural balance.

🔹 2. Moisturise With Purpose

Yes, dry skin needs moisture — but that’s just step one. Winter skincare should also focus on restoring the skin barrier. Here’s what to look for:

• Skin-identical lipids like ceramides and cholesterol: These help reduce permeability and strengthen the barrier.

• Emollients (e.g., sorbolene, glycerine): Soften and smooth the skin.

• Humectants (e.g., glycerol, urea): Draw water into the skin and retain moisture in the outer layers.

• Occlusives (e.g., petroleum jelly, lanolin, cocoa butter): Form a protective seal to prevent moisture loss.

If you suffer from eczema, dermatitis or very sensitive skin, a targeted moisturiser with these ingredients can make all the difference.

🔹 3. Consider Cosmeceuticals

Some skincare ingredients offer real scientific benefits in winter. I often recommend these to listeners and viewers looking to boost their routine:

▫ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), supports ceramide production, promotes skin renewal, and calms inflammation. (2)

▫ Vitamin C

This antioxidant improves barrier function and skin turnover — but only if formulated correctly. Look for ascorbic acid with a pH below 3.5 to ensure it penetrates the skin. (3)(4)

🔹 4. Don’t Skip the Sunscreen

Even in winter, UVA rays (the ones responsible for aging) are present from sunrise to sunset. While UVB peaks in summer, UVA is year-round — and penetrates clouds and glass. A broad-spectrum SPF is a must, even on cloudy, cold days.

❄️ Enjoy the crisp air — and protect your skin while you're at it!