8 Everyday winter habits that harm skin and hair health
8 Everyday winter habits that harm skin and hair health | Dynamite News
English
8 Everyday winter habits that harm skin and hair health | Dynamite News
English
08 December, 2025, 02:00 pm
Last modified: 08 December, 2025, 03:54 pm
When winter settles in, skin begins to whisper its needs. For some, it means holding on to nourishment despite the cold; for others, it’s about preserving brightness as seasonal dullness quietly creeps in. Then comes the dryness—subtle at first, then unmistakable—as chilly winds and pollution work together to steal moisture.
In a country where dust and pollution are everyday realities, skin care becomes more than a routine; it becomes a form of protection. Pores clog, the skin barrier weakens, and by the time winter arrives, the signs of damage become more visible. The skin loses hydration easily, leaving it tired and vulnerable.
TBS has curated five must-have winter skin and body care products that are both effective and convenient. Each one is simple to use, bringing noticeable improvements that ensure your skin stays soft, glowing, and protected throughout the season.
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1. Moonskin Saffron Anti-Aging Soap
Photo: Collected
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Photo: Collected
Moonskin’s Saffron Anti-Aging Soap turns a simple daily bath into a nourishing skincare ritual. Infused with pure saffron extract, it helps boost radiance and even out skin tone.
During winter, skin often feels tight and dehydrated after washing — but the goat milk in this formula provides gentle exfoliation without causing moisture loss, thanks to its natural lactic acid. Almond and coconut oils further support softness and prevent roughness, keeping the skin smooth and healthy-looking.
Designed for both the face and body, the soap creates a soft lather and rinses cleanly without stripping the skin. For anyone seeking brightness and hydration in one step, this soap delivers visible softness and a natural glow, making chilly mornings feel refreshing rather than drying.
Price: Tk1,050
Where to buy: Moonskin official website
2. Aarong Earth Coffee Face and Body Scrub
There’s nothing more satisfying in winter than scrubbing away the rough, dry patches that make skin look tired. Aarong Earth’s Coffee Face and Body Scrub brings a mini spa moment into the everyday shower routine.
Made with finely roasted coffee, it gently buffs away flaky winter skin while awakening the senses with its rich aroma. Olive oil and Vitamin E soften and repair dryness, leaving the skin smooth, nourished, and ready to absorb moisture.
The scrub also helps clear clogged pores affected by pollution and sweat, making the skin appear smoother and instantly refreshed. It is especially beneficial for areas that become rough in winter, such as the elbows, knees, and T-zone. When used regularly — two to three times a week — it boosts blood circulation and supports a healthy winter glow from head to toe. Even a quick scrub in the shower can make the rest of your skincare products work more effectively.
Price: Tk550
Where to buy: Aarong Earth (online and in-store)
3. Organikaon Vitamin C Serum (Triple Antioxidants)
Photo: Collected
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Photo: Collected
Winter often brings dullness and uneven texture, and this serum is designed to bring back your glow. Organikaon’s Vitamin C Triple Antioxidants Serum combines Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Ferulic Acid to protect the skin from pollution and daily damage — especially in cities like Dhaka. This trio brightens the complexion, boosts collagen, and softens early signs of aging such as fine lines and pigmentation.
It also contains multi-layer Hyaluronic Acid, which delivers hydration to different layers of the skin — a major advantage when winter causes tightness and dry patches. Plant extracts from green tea, licorice, lemongrass, and rose help calm irritation and reduce redness, both of which tend to worsen in cold weather.
With its lightweight, fast-absorbing texture, the serum fits easily into a morning routine and keeps the skin looking fresh, energized, and healthy throughout the day.
Price: Tk1,450
Where to buy: Organikaon official website
4. Guerniss Daily Moisturiser
Photo: Collected
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Photo: Collected
A good moisturiser becomes non-negotiable in winter, and Guerniss Daily Moisturiser is crafted specifically for deep nourishment.
It locks in long-lasting hydration, restoring softness to dry areas and soothing winter irritation. This cream supports the skin’s moisture barrier to prevent dehydration caused by cold winds or indoor heating, keeping the skin comfortable throughout the day.
Despite its rich nourishment, it has a lightweight texture that absorbs effortlessly without leaving a greasy finish. Whether you’re stepping outside in dry weather or staying indoors in AC, this moisturiser ensures your skin feels fresh, soft, and confident all day long. It’s the kind of everyday protection that makes winter feel like a skincare upgrade, not a struggle.
Price: Tk1,480
Where to buy: Guerniss official website
5. Ribana Saffron Soothing Gel
Photo: Collected
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Photo: Collected
For those who prefer refreshing hydration, Ribana Saffron Soothing Gel is an excellent choice for the winter months.
Saffron extract helps brighten the skin and improve uneven tone, while aloe vera provides instant comfort to dry and irritated skin. The addition of Vitamin B3 supports a smoother texture and helps reduce visible redness — a common winter concern for many people.
The gel absorbs quickly without clogging pores, making it suitable for all skin types — particularly for those who prefer lighter formulations. Used in the morning and before bed, it helps the skin feel clear, soft, and naturally glowing throughout the colder months — proving that hydration doesn’t have to feel sticky or thick to be effective.
Mumbai,
December
05,
2025:
As
winter
sets
in,
the
cool
breeze
and
cozy
evenings
also
bring
a
common
challenge
everyone
relates
to
–
dry,
flaky,
and
tired-looking
skin.
With
long
shooting
hours,
heavy
makeup,
and
changing
outdoor
and
indoor
temperatures,
skincare
becomes
even
more
important
for
television
actors,
who
rely
on
healthy,
camera-ready
skin
every
day.
This
season,
Sony
SAB’s
beloved
artists
Deeksha
Joshi,
Akshaya
Hindalkar,
Shrenu
Parikh,
and
Rajat
Verma
open
up
about
the
mindful
rituals,
simple
habits,
and
comforting
winter
skincare
routines
that
help
them
protect
their
skin
and
embrace
the
glow
through
the
cold.
Deeksha
Joshi,
who
plays
Deepti
in
Pushpa
Impossible,
shared,
“When
you’re
shooting
daily,
your
skin
is
the
first
place
where
stress
and
weather
show
up.
For
winter,
I
treat
my
skincare
like
a
small
ritual
rather
than
a
rushed
task
–
I
start
by
using
a
gentle
cleanser,
then
layer
a
hydrating
serum,
and
seal
everything
with
a
rich
moisturizer
so
my
skin
doesn’t
feel
tight
under
makeup.
I
also
keep
a
facial
mist
and
lip
balm
in
my
vanity
at
all
times,
as
studio
lights
and
air
conditioning
can
be
very
drying
during
this
season.
On
my
off
days,
I
love
applying
a
simple
moisturizer;
it’s
my
way
of
giving
my
skin
a
break
and
a
hug
at
the
same
time.”
Akshaya
Hindalkar,
who
essays
the
role
of
Rashi
in
Pushpa
Impossible,
shared,
“People
think
skincare
is
all
about
fancy
products,
but
for
me,
winter
skincare
starts
with
discipline.
I
make
sure
I’m
drinking
warm
water
throughout
the
day,
add
seasonal
fruits
to
my
diet,
and
never
skip
removing
makeup
the
moment
I
wrap
up
a
shoot,
no
matter
how
late
it
is.
During
the
colder
months,
I
switch
to
a
cream-based
cleanser
and
use
a
thicker
moisturizer
because
my
skin
tends
to
feel
stretchy
otherwise,
and
I
always
apply
sunscreen
even
if
I’m
shooting
mostly
indoors
–
the
lights
and
sun
both
affect
the
skin
more
than
we
realize.
My
favorite
winter
habit
is
massaging
my
face
with
a
few
drops
of
facial
oil
at
night;
it
relaxes
me
after
a
long
day,
and
I
wake
up
with
softer,
calmer
skin.”
Shrenu
Parikh,
who
essays
the
role
of
Goddess
Parvati
in
Gatha
Shiv
Parivaar
Ki
Ganesh
Kartikey,
shared,
“Playing
a
divine
character
means
spending
hours
in
elaborate
costumes
and
makeup,
so
skincare
becomes
non-negotiable
for
me,
especially
in
winter.
Before
the
shoot,
I
prep
my
skin
with
a
hydrating
toner
and
a
barrier-strengthening
moisturizer
so
it
doesn’t
get
irritated
or
patchy
under
layers
of
makeup,
and
after
pack-up,
I
follow
a
strict
double-cleansing
routine
to
ensure
every
bit
of
product
and
pollution
is
removed.
I’m
also
a
big
believer
in
traditional
care
–
on
weekends,
I
apply
a
homemade
ubtan
with
besan
and
a
few
soothing
ingredients
to
gently
exfoliate
and
bring
back
the
natural
glow
that
heavy
lights
sometimes
dull.
Winter,
for
me,
is
about
slowing
down,
listening
to
what
your
skin
needs,
and
making
small
but
consistent
efforts
to
keep
it
healthy.”
Watch
Gatha
Shiv
Parivaar
Ki
Ganesh
Kartikey
and
Pushpa
Impossible
every
Monday
to
Saturday
only
on
Sony
SAB
This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small amount of money if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase.
If your skin has become desperate for some hydration this winter, then we might have a solution for you.
Thousands of people are raving about The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum.
Currently available for £7.48 (down from £8.80), this product is proving to be one of Boots’ top-selling low-cost beauty products, as demonstrated by its high level of customer support, with over 1,800 customers having given it a 4.4-star rating.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum is a light, easy-to-apply serum that provides serious hydration through the combination of five different forms of hyaluronic acid.
In addition, the product contains ceramides, which help repair your skin barrier so as to combat dehydration and maintain healthy skin.
It also includes pro-vitamin B5 to provide softness and glow to the skin, both immediately after application and for longer periods.
© Boots
Suitable for dry, dehydrated or stressed skin due to winter conditions, this product is ideal to layer under your usual moisturiser and will work effectively regardless of your skin type.
Many customers have posted comments praising how effective this product is, including one who said, ‘It applies really smoothly and leaves my skin feeling nicely hydrated.’
Another customer said, ‘This stuff has changed my life…I would never be able to live without it.’
© Boots
If you’re seeking a cost-effective product that provides the same effective results, as a result of the fact that it is a Boots best seller, this is definitely the product to choose.
It’s a lightweight hydrating serum formulated with five forms of hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and pro-vitamin B5 to boost moisture and improve skin softness.
It’s ideal for dry, dehydrated or winter-stressed skin, but it works well for all skin types when layered under a moisturiser.
Over 1,800 customers have given it a 4.4-star rating, praising its smooth application, hydrating feel and impressive results for the low price.
Apply a few drops to clean skin before your regular moisturiser, both morning and night, to lock in hydration.
Yes, it delivers noticeably effective hydration for just £7.48, making it one of the most budget-friendly bestselling serums at Boots.
‘Tis the season for all things warm and cozy—and that includes your beauty routine. Not only are we drawn to deep, rich colors and textures for our makeup and nails, but our dry winter skin also needs extra TLC. Then there’s the fun stuff, like shimmers and glowy peach that brings us back to the early 2000s. No matter what you’re in the mood for, find out the biggest beauty trends to try for winter 2025-26, from spicy fragrances to throwback makeup looks and more ahead.
Gilbert Carrasquillo//Getty Images
The tactile texture is breaking out of your wardrobe and into your beauty routine this season. From Alex Cooper’s “velvet blonde” hair color to velvet nails (one of the top winter nail trends) to velvet-matte skin, it’s all about the soft-focus look.
Courtesy Aesop
Stepping in for cinnamon, cardamom is enjoying a moment in the fragrance spotlight, with Aesop’s Above Us, Steorra, Lake & Skye’s Sueded Peach, and others featuring the warm spice note. Boka even has a limited-edition vanilla-and-cardamom toothpaste, just in case you want a break from your typical peppermint.
Courtesy Merit
The frosty Y2K shimmer aesthetic is back, only now it’s more sophisticated—but just as fun. See: Merit’s just-shimmery-enough cream eyeshadows (modeled in the brand’s campaign by ’90s and ’00s icon Christina Ricci) and Bobbi Brown’s newly reformulated, ultra-long-lasting eyeshadow sticks.
Now 30% Off
New York Daily News Archive//Getty Images
Another Y2K-era makeup look making the rounds on TikTok lately? Jennifer Lopez’s perfect peachy bronze makeup from her Glow era. Get the look with a peachy blush, shimmery bronzer, and an abundance of sheer lip gloss.
Open Gallery
Courtesy Beauty of Joseon
The K-Beauty skincare step is still going strong, thanks to their barrier-supporting formulas that add an extra layer of hydration for parched winter skin. Formulas from Beauty of Joseon and Aestura keep selling out, and Rhode’s ceramide-packed Glazing Mist is another great option you can spritz on the go.
Now 20% Off
JC Olivera//Getty Images
Olivia Rodrigo’s lip color at the GQ Men of the Year Awards was right on trend: For a seasonal twist on the rich chocolate trend, go for a deep red with brown undertones. The same rule applies to nails, eyeliner, and even hair color.
Now 20% Off
Now 30% Off
Last Updated:November 28, 2025, 08:47 IST
Moisturizer isn’t merely a skincare step, it’s an essential pre-makeup ritual that ensures your glow lasts all day long.
Winter skincare is vastly different from the norm, as it requires adding a lot of hydrating products into your routine. The cold winds, dry air and lack of sun mean a lack of moisture, which can leave your skin looking dull and grey, cracked and itchy. However, this does not mean you just apply one type of body lotion and call it a day. The best results come from hydrating in layers; a serum can be applied before the moisturiser and opt for a cleanser that’s gentle.
Here are 5 products that you can incorporate into your winter skincare routine to get soft and supple skin:
Sebamed Lip Defense
Sebamed Lip Defense
A dermatologically superior alternative to cosmetic balms, this Sebamed Lip Defense is ideal for lip skin that’s 10x thinner and far more prone to winter damage, making it the first to crack, peel or chap in cold weather. As it enriched with Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E, and Chamomile, it shields the lips from harsh air, dryness and irritation. This balm ensures all-day comfort and softness and dermatologically repairs chapped lips.
Cost: Rs 520
Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cleansing Foam
Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cleansing Foam
Awaken your skin’s self-rejuvenating power with the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cleansing Foam. This luxurious formula combines Ginsenomics, rare ginseng saponin concentrated 6,000, with a peptide-rich blend to help address 18 signs of ageing. it removes makeup, sunscreen, and daily impurities with minimal friction and leaves skin feeling calm, hydrated, and firm. This cleansing foam is rich, creamy lather gently purifies while strengthening your skin’s moisture barrier via the Ginseng Amino Complex
Cost: Rs 4,200
Foxtale Pure Bliss Nourishing Ceramide Moisturiser
Foxtale Pure Bliss Nourishing Ceramide Moisturiser
This moisturiser delivers deep hydration comparable to water infusion while maintaining an ultra-light, non-sticky texture for a breathable skin feel. It is clinically proven to provide up to 100 hours of hydration. Its formula is powered by a blend of 5 essential ceramides that help restore and reinforce the skin’s natural barrier. Niacinamide supports even tone and texture, while kokum butter nourishes and softens without clogging pores. Hyaluronic Acid attracts and retains moisture at multiple skin layers, revitalising dull, fatigued skin.
Cost: Rs 395
Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturising Cream
Ideal for dry to very dry skin, this cream delivers deep, long-lasting nourishment that cocoons the skin in moisture. It is a fast-absorbing, supercharged cream that delivers instant moisture while it boosts elasticity and strengthens the skin’s barrier with 5 ceramides and panthenol. It strengthens and restores the barrier, making it perfect for colder months, nighttime routines, or whenever your skin needs extra care.
Cost: Rs 4,400
Victoria’s Secret Bare Sueded Vanilla Lotion
Victoria’s Secret Bare Sueded Vanilla Lotion
Lather on a luxurious layer of Victoria’s Secret Bare Sueded Vanilla Lotion, a silky, fast-absorbing formula, after your bath as it leaves the skin soft, hydrated, and lightly perfumed. Infused with notes of textured vanilla, soft cashmere, and glowing amber, it envelops the skin in warmth and comfort while locking in lasting moisture. Perfect for post-shower care or on-the-go hydration, this lotion transforms daily moisturising into a sensorial self-care ritual – smooth, sensual, and unmistakably comforting.
Cost: Rs 2,999
First Published:
November 28, 2025, 08:47 IST
News lifestyle beauty Winter Skincare: These 5 Essentials For Smooth And Supple Skin All WinterDisclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Are you all set for the Black Friday Sale? This year, if you are buying skincare products for winter, prioritise barrier repair, hydration, and gentle active ingredients, and skip the panic-buying of …
Winter brings a welcome chill. But for your skin, it can be a season of silent damage. The drop in temperature and humidity disrupts the skin barrier, making it more prone to dryness, sensitivity, and premature ageing. However, what many people don’t realise is that some everyday morning habits may be exacerbating these issues, often without any obvious signs until the damage has accumulated.
If you have been making these morning skincare mistakes, time to wake up(Pexels)
Dermatologist Dr Bindu Sthalekar, founder of Skin Smart Solutions, and Dr Shweta Tripathi, dermatologist, aesthetic injector, and founder of My Skindom, tell HT ShopNow that several common morning skincare habits may be drying out your skin and contributing to premature ageing.
But these can be prevented by avoiding some unhealthy skincare habits in winter.
A steaming-hot splash may feel comforting, but heat strips away essential lipids and ceramides from the skin barrier. “Hot water accelerates transepidermal water loss, leaving skin dry, rough, and vulnerable to fine lines”, says Dr Tripathi. Hot water also strips the skin’s natural moisture barrier and triggers inflammation, which speeds up collagen loss, explains Dr Sthalekar. Both dermatologists recommend switching to lukewarm water that cleans effectively without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture balance.
Skipping moisturiser is a big no. Dr Tripathi explains why:“Overnight, the skin loses moisture and needs replenishment. Opt for barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and peptides, especially in winter.” She also recommends applying a moisturiser within 60 seconds of cleansing to trap moisture effectively. Dr Sthalekar says, “Choose a cream over a gel if you live in a dry environment or spend most of your time in heated spaces”.
“Vitamin C serums are more potent in 2025 formulations, but they can be drying or irritating when applied to freshly cleansed skin, and can increase photosensitivity and irritation when applied without a sunscreen”, says Dr Tripathi. She also recommends applying a hydrating serum before vitamin C with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
Using high-foam, sulphate-based cleansers may leave your skin squeaky clean, but that tightness is a sign of barrier damage. “Over time, this leads to irritation, dullness, and accelerated ageing, so replace them with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that cleans without stripping, ”Dr Sthalekar suggests.
“Morning coffee culture is huge, especially high-caffeine cold brews. But drinking caffeine before water can leave your skin dehydrated and looking dull throughout the day,” Dr Tripathi, tells HT ShopNow. Instead, she recommends drinking at least one glass of water before your morning caffeine.
Ultraviolet rays don’t hibernate for winter. In fact, UVA, the wavelength responsible for DNA damage and ageing, remains constant year-round. Pair sunscreen with antioxidants for enhanced protection, especially in polluted urban environments.
Try to reduce using retinoids, acids, and exfoliating serums as they can become harsher on your skin in winter, suggests Dr Sthalekar. Applying them on dry, dehydrated skin amplifies irritation, and sometimes micro-inflammation is a major driver of premature ageing. The best way to include these serums and acids is to layer them strategically.
“If irritation persists, apply every alternate night or use short-contact therapy. This ensures results without compromising the skin barrier”, she asserts.
“Tinted moisturisers and foundations now boast higher SPF levels, but they still don’t provide enough coverage on their own,” Dr Tripathi says. Inadequate sun protection remains the number 1 cause of premature skin ageing. So, she recommends always applying a dedicated sunscreen every morning.
Dr Sthalekar says winter skincare isn’t about adding more steps, it’s about choosing the right ones and doing them mindfully. Small morning changes can preserve skin elasticity, prevent premature ageing, and support a stronger, healthier skin barrier through the season.
(Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.)
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Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Last Updated:November 26, 2025, 11:22 IST
Discover the truth behind common winter skincare myths as experts debunk misconceptions about moisturisers, SPF, hot showers, lip care, hair care, and barrier health.
As temperatures drop and humidity levels dip, winter brings a familiar challenge: dry, irritated skin and the urge to overhaul one’s skincare routine. But alongside these seasonal changes comes a flurry of misinformation, myths passed down through habits, assumptions, and half-truths. To help decode what’s true and what’s not, we spoke to two industry experts, Nitin Jain, founder, La Pink, and Aromatherapist Divita Kanoria, founder, TATHA.
Together, they debunk some of the most common winter skincare myths and explain what your skin really needs during the colder months.
Myth 1: “My summer routine works in winter too.”
Many believe that if a routine works in summer, it should work in winter as well. But as Nitin Jain explains, the skin’s needs change significantly with the weather. He notes that colder air pulls moisture from the skin, weakening the barrier and accelerating dryness. While gentle cleansers and basic hydrators may work year-round, winter typically requires richer, barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and nourishing oils.
He also emphasises lip care, one of the most neglected aspects of winter routines. La Pink’s balms enriched with shea butter and plant oils were designed specifically to combat seasonal lip dehydration.
Myth 2: “I don’t need moisturiser if my skin doesn’t feel dry.”
Dryness often begins at the cellular level, long before you can feel or see it. Jain explains that preventative moisturisation is essential to reduce micro-damage caused by low humidity.
He highlights ingredients like kokum butter, sunflower oil, avocado extracts, and other nutrient-rich plant oils used in La Pink formulations. These not only lock in moisture but also strengthen the skin’s natural lipid barrier to prevent future dryness. Using a nourishing face wash and a hydrating body lotion consistently helps keep the skin smooth, resilient, and protected throughout winter.
Myth 3: “You don’t need sunscreen in winter.”
According to Divita Kanoria, this is one of the most harmful winter myths. UV rays remain constant year-round and can even intensify when reflected off cold surfaces. Skipping sunscreen accelerates pigmentation, wrinkles, and premature ageing, even on cloudy days.
Kanoria stresses that SPF should be a non-negotiable step, regardless of season.
Myth 4: “Thicker creams are always better in winter”
A heavy texture does not automatically mean better hydration. Kanoria explains that what the skin truly needs is barrier-strengthening ingredients, not greasy formulas. Ceramides, plant stem cells, and peptides support repair and hydration without clogging pores.
Often, a lightweight but well-designed cream performs far better than a thick, occlusive one.
Myth 5: “Hot showers hydrate the skin”
Long, steaming showers may feel comforting, but they strip the skin of natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated. Kanoria advises opting for lukewarm water and moisturising immediately after bathing while the skin is still damp to lock in hydration effectively.
Myth 6: “Lips don’t need separate care”
Lips lose moisture faster than any other area of the face. Jain recommends using a lip balm enriched with Vitamin E, shea butter, licorice oil, and nourishing plant extracts to keep them soft and protected throughout winter.
Myth 7: “Hair doesn’t need extra nourishment in winter”
Cold winds disrupt hair cuticles, causing frizz and breakage. Jain suggests incorporating a methi-dana–infused hair oil to strengthen roots and restore smoothness.
Myth 8: “Only dry skin needs winter care”
Winter impacts all skin types including oily and combination skin. Jain explains that cold weather weakens the lipid barrier universally, increasing moisture loss even in oily skin. This can lead to flakiness, whiteheads, and purging.
La Pink’s winter formulations, he notes, are based not only on science but also on customer feedback. Ingredients like white haldi, kukum butter, cactus flower extracts, and cold-pressed plant oils help balance oil production while maintaining hydration meeting European quality standards for clean beauty.
Myth 9: “Winter dryness is only seasonal”
Kanoria clarifies that winter simply magnifies underlying concerns like dehydration, barrier weakness, or inflammation. Treating the root cause not just the weather is key to maintaining healthy skin.
Winter skincare is not about heavier products or seasonal fads, it’s about understanding your skin’s changing needs and strengthening its natural barrier. As both experts conclude, a targeted, ingredient-driven routine offers far better results than relying on outdated myths.
This season, ditch the misconceptions and embrace skincare that genuinely supports your skin and hair through colder months.
Swati Chaturvedi is a seasoned media professional with over 13 years of experience in journalism, digital content strategy, and editorial leadership across top national media houses. An alumna of Lady Shri Ram …Read More
Swati Chaturvedi is a seasoned media professional with over 13 years of experience in journalism, digital content strategy, and editorial leadership across top national media houses. An alumna of Lady Shri Ram … Read More
First Published:
November 26, 2025, 11:22 IST
Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Prepare skin for winter with skincare tips: learn how to adjust your daily routine to stay hydrated and avoid dryness and irritation.
Does your skin feel more dry and sensitive when the season changes from summer to winter? Just like we change our clothes for warmer ones and enjoy heavier meals, we also need to adjust our winter skincare routine for the season. Our skin needs special care, and this change is important for keeping it healthy and preventing the dryness and irritation winter can bring.
Many of us hold on to our favourite summer skincare products even when we no longer need them in our winter skincare routine. “Foaming cleansers and lightweight moisturisers that worked well in warm weather can harm your skin as the weather gets colder,” Dr Harkanwal Sekhu, Dermatologist, tells Health Shots. These products can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, tightness, and irritation.
In summer, heat and humidity increase oil production. So, lighter, oil-free products work well. But in winter, cold air and indoor heating can cause problems. These conditions deplete your skin’s moisture and weaken its natural barrier, which helps protect against dryness and irritation. “When the barrier is compromised, your skin becomes more susceptible to problems like redness, sensitivity, and roughness”, warns Dr Sekhu. You might even notice fine lines and breakouts, due to increased dryness and inflammation.
Switching your skincare products with the seasons is important for maintaining healthy skin.
To get your skin ready for winter, start with your face wash. Those foaming cleansers that felt great in summer can dry out your skin in winter. “Instead, choose hydrating, sulfate-free cleansers with ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, and aloe vera. These options clean your skin well without removing its natural moisture,” says the dermatologist. It’s important to avoid products that have alcohol or strong scents. These ingredients can worsen dryness and irritation, which you want to avoid during the cold winter months.
Moisturise after applying the face scrub. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock
When winter comes, your skin needs more hydration. It’s a good time to change your moisturiser. Dr Sekhu recommends “moving from light gel moisturisers to thicker cream-based ones. Look for ingredients like shea butter, squalane, and hyaluronic acid.” These ingredients provide deep hydration, retain moisture, and help soothe inflammation.
Dr Sekhu says, “Your skin needs more support and nourishment in winter.” Cream-based moisturisers help by adding hydration and forming a protective layer against cold weather and dry indoor air. If you have very dry or sensitive skin, try adding a hydrating serum under your moisturiser for extra moisture.
Many people think they don’t need sunscreen when the sun isn’t shining brightly. However, ultraviolet rays can harm us year-round, making it essential to include sunscreen in your winter skincare routine. In fact, UV exposure can increase in winter because the rays bounce off snow and clouds. Dr Sekhu advises, “Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even in winter.” Choose a sunscreen that also provides moisture to protect your skin from the sun and dry winds.
Exfoliation is important for keeping your skin smooth by removing dead skin cells, especially in your winter skincare routine. However, during winter, be careful about overexfoliation. “Over-exfoliating can damage your skin barrier, so limit your exfoliating treatments to once or twice a week. Use gentle exfoliants, such as lactic acid or enzyme-based scrubs,” says the doctor. These will help you achieve glowing skin without the risks posed by harsher scrubs.
Lips and hands often get neglected in a winter skincare routine. Their delicate skin can dry out easily, causing chapping and cracking. “Keep a hydrating lip balm handy to keep lips moisturised. Apply a nourishing hand cream often, especially after washing your hands,” shares the expert. These simple steps can help protect your skin from winter dryness.
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Dr Sekhu offers a helpful comparison: “Think of skincare like seasonal eating. Just as our diets change with the seasons, choosing warm soups and healthy nuts in winter, our skincare routines should also change.”