What Should Winter Skin Care Be Like? 12 Best Ingredients!

Skin care in winter differs from skin care in other seasons mainly due to specific weather conditions that affect our skin.

In winter, we should protect our skin from low temperatures, frost and wind. The skin dries out in winter due to extreme conditions, such as frost, low humidity and wind. Therefore, at this time of year, more nourishing and protective cosmetics are used, e.g. creams with natural lipids, e.g. shea butter, vegetable oils or vegetable waxes.

Low air humidity, both outdoors and in heated rooms, causes the skin to dry out faster. That is why it is so important to moisturize the skin in winter and use cosmetics that help retain water in the skin, such as products with hyaluronic acid, glycerin or ceramides.

Although the sun is weaker, the UV radiation reflected by the snow is more intense. High protection of the facial skin from the sun in winter is necessary during outdoor activities in sunny conditions.

Skin needs to be strengthened for winter. Frost and wind weaken the hydrolipid barrier. So choose products that strengthen the protective barrier, e.g. with ceramides or panthenol.

In winter, avoid irritating cosmetics. Products with an exfoliating effect, e.g. with high concentrations of acids or retinoids, can additionally irritate the skin in frosty conditions. They are used with greater caution or opt for non-irritating H10 retinol and gentle acids. How to care for your skin in winter? Find cosmetics with the best ingredients for this time of year.

How to moisturize your face in winter?

The main moisturizing ingredients are hyaluronic acid, glycerin and trehalose.

winter skin care with hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid binds water in the skin, preventing it from drying out. It is a valuable ingredient in winter care, but its correct use is key. Combining it with occlusive creams and properly moisturizing the skin allows you to use its properties without risking dehydration in dry, winter conditions.

Hyaluronic acid is hygroscopic, which means it attracts and binds water molecules from the environment and from the deeper layers of the skin. In humid conditions, it works effectively by retaining water on the skin's surface, which improves its hydration.

In winter, the air is often dry, both outside (frost) and inside (heated rooms). In such conditions, water from the deeper layers of the skin is drawn to the surface, which in extreme cases can lead to skin dehydration, which is why it is important to support hyaluronic acid with ingredients with a similar effect, e.g. trehalose.

Choosing products with a higher molecular weight of hyaluronic acid (e.g. high molecular weight) can help retain moisture on the skin's surface, rather than pulling it from deeper layers. That's why it's worth reaching for products

Hyaluronic acid used alone can dry out the skin by drawing water out of the epidermis (it strongly binds water molecules), which is why it should be applied with occlusive substances (also known as film-forming substances), such as oils.

In order for hyaluronic acid to work effectively, it is worth applying it to slightly damp skin, e.g. after washing your face or using a toner. After applying a cosmetic with hyaluronic acid, it is recommended to apply a layer of an occlusive cream, e.g. with shea butter, ceramides or squalane. So look for cosmetics with such a composition .

Glycerin in winter skin care

Glycerin in winter cosmetics strongly moisturizes, creating a protective film on the skin.

Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a versatile ingredient used in cosmetics. Glycerin is a humectant – it attracts moisture from the environment and retains it in the skin. There are several types of glycerin, depending on its source and production method.

Vegetable glycerin is produced by hydrolysis of vegetable fats such as palm, coconut or soybean oil. It is usually highly purified and used in vegan and cruletty free cosmetics.

Animal glycerin is produced by the hydrolysis of animal fats such as lard or tallow.

It can be as high as vegetable glycerin if processed properly.

However, it is used less and less in cosmetics due to the growing popularity of vegan alternatives. It is used in soap production in the traditional method of producing glycerin soaps.

Synthetic glycerin is one of the options used in cosmetics, but its use is much rarer compared to vegetable and animal glycerin. It is derived from petrochemical raw materials, such as propyl or other organic compounds, in the process of chemical synthesis.

Why Trehalose Is Perfect For Winter

Trehalose is a sugar naturally found in plants, fungi, yeast and bacteria that is becoming increasingly popular in cosmetics, especially in winter products. Its unique protective and moisturizing properties make it an excellent ingredient for skin care in difficult weather conditions.

Trehalose protects the skin from environmental stress. It has the ability to protect cells from damage caused by frost, dry air and temperature changes. It creates a protective barrier on the skin surface, protecting it from moisture loss and harmful environmental influences.

Trehalose has strong moisturizing properties. It binds water molecules in the skin, maintaining the right level of moisture even in dry, winter conditions. It prevents skin dryness, which is a common problem in the winter season.

It protects the skin from free radicals that can be activated by winter smog and UV radiation (also in winter). Thanks to this action, it delays the skin's aging processes.

Trehalose also supports the regeneration of the epidermis, which is important for skin irritations caused by frost or wind. It has a soothing effect, reducing redness and roughness of the skin.

How to use trehalose ampoule serum in winter?

It is best to use it on slightly damp skin to increase its ability to retain water. After applying the serum ampoule with trehalose, it is worth protecting the skin with an occlusive cream to increase its protection against external factors.

In dry, heated rooms, daily use of the trehalose ampoule serum helps maintain the appropriate level of skin hydration throughout the winter.

How to regenerate skin in winter?

To nourish and regenerate the skin in winter, ingredients such as butters and vegetable oils are essential. Oils and butters are irreplaceable in winter cosmetics, because they not only help protect the skin from difficult weather conditions, but also moisturize and regenerate. Thanks to their various properties, they can be adapted to any type of skin, from dry to oily. Regular use of cosmetics with vegetable oils and butters provides the skin with a healthy, moisturized and protected appearance throughout the winter. A regenerating ingredient worth mentioning is D-panthenol.

For winter skin care, we should therefore include rich creams with shea butter. This butter contains a large amount of vitamins and fatty acids that regenerate the skin. Also known as karite , it is one of the most popular ingredients used in winter cosmetics. In winter care, shea butter is irreplaceable, especially in protecting the skin from difficult weather conditions.

Why are cocoa butter and shea butter perfect for winter?

It has strong regenerative properties. It does not clog pores, which makes it suitable for most skin types. It is rich in vitamins A and E , which support the regeneration of the epidermis. It helps in healing micro-damages, irritations and chapped skin, which are a common problem in winter. It contains unsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid, stearic acid), which perfectly moisturize and nourish the skin. Ideal for dry and dehydrated skin.

Shea butter has natural soothing properties that reduce redness and calm skin irritated by frost and changing temperatures.

Another great ingredient for winter is cocoa butter. Why cocoa butter creams in winter? It creates an occlusion on the skin that protects against cold and wind. It intensively nourishes and smoothes, and the addition of vegetable oils helps retain moisture in the skin and protects against cold.

Cosmetics with butters in their composition act as a natural occlusion, creating a protective layer on the skin surface that prevents moisture loss and protects against the effects of wind, frost and dry air.

Creams with butters in their composition that are worth considering are the Sandalwood and Turmeric Face Cream and the Ashwagandha Face Cream.

In winter, the skin likes cosmetics with oils in their composition

Vegetable oils are an excellent ingredient in winter cosmetics due to their moisturizing, protective and regenerative properties. They are a natural source of fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants that help protect the skin and hair from harsh weather conditions, such as frost, wind and dry air. The best vegetable oils in winter cosmetics are jojoba oil, almond oil, grape seed oil or avocado oil.

Why are vegetable oils ideal for winter? Vegetable oils create a protective layer on the skin that protects against moisture loss and protects against harmful environmental factors. Rich in fatty acids such as omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9, vegetable oils intensively moisturize the skin, especially dry and dehydrated. The content of vitamins (A, E, D, K) and antioxidants supports skin regeneration and soothes irritation caused by winter conditions.

What vegetable oils are best for winter cosmetics? One of the best ingredients for winter is jojoba oil. Its structure, similar to skin sebum, makes it easily absorbed, intensively moisturizing and protecting against drying. Coconut oil is also good for winter. On winter days, it creates a protective film on the skin and hair, preventing them from drying out.

A valuable ingredient for winter skin is sweet almond oil. Why in winter? Because it is delicate and nourishing, perfect for sensitive skin. It soothes itching and dryness. Winter cosmetics often contain grape seed oil:

How to use vegetable oils in winter? You can apply pure oils directly to the skin, especially at night, to increase their regeneration. Oils can be mixed with your favorites or you can use face creams with a high oil content. If you use oil, it is best to use it as the last step of care to protect the skin from moisture loss.

It is worth paying attention to such an ingredient in winter cosmetics as D-Panthenol - a precursor of vitamin B5, i.e. pantothenic acid. D-Panthenol (dexpanthenol) is an active form of provitamin B5. It accelerates regeneration, has a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect.

cosmetics for rebuilding the hydrolipid barrier in winter

Ceramides for winter

In winter, we also focus on ingredients that rebuild the hydrolipid barrier. Such ingredients are ceramides and squalane. Ceramides rebuild the skin's protective barrier, preventing water loss.

Ceramides are lipids that naturally occur in the stratum corneum of the epidermis and play a key role in maintaining a healthy skin barrier. Their presence in winter cosmetics is particularly valuable because they help protect the skin from harsh weather conditions, such as frost, wind and dry air, and prevent dryness and irritation.

Why are ceramides the perfect ingredient for winter? In winter, the skin is exposed to damage to the hydrolipid barrier due to dry air (heating in rooms) and extreme weather conditions (frost and wind). Ceramides replenish the missing lipids in the skin, strengthening the protective barrier and preventing moisture loss.

They act as intercellular “cement,” holding skin cells together and preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This helps the skin maintain an adequate level of hydration even in very dry conditions.

In winter, the skin often becomes irritated and rough. Ceramides support the regeneration process of the epidermis, restoring its softness and elasticity. They help in healing micro-damages that can occur as a result of frost and wind.

They also have a soothing effect. Sensitive and atopic skin, which is particularly susceptible to irritation in winter, tolerates ceramides very well. They reduce redness and itching. Ceramides are suitable for all skin types, from dry and dehydrated to oily and sensitive. In winter, they can be used as a protective ingredient in various cosmetics.

In cosmetics, ceramides replenish the lipids naturally present in the skin, which may be damaged or deficient, especially in winter. They restore the skin's ability to retain water and protect it from harmful external factors.

Ceramides are often combined with fatty acids, cholesterol, moisturizers (e.g. hyaluronic acid) and emollients, which enhance their moisturizing and protective effects.

Ceramides in the serum intensively regenerate the skin, providing deep reconstruction and hydration.

How to use ceramide cosmetics in winter? Use layered care. Apply a ceramide serum as the first layer, then apply a protective or occlusive cream to enhance the moisturizing and protection effect. Apply ceramide cosmetics to slightly damp skin to lock in moisture and maximize their properties. Use a ceramide serum every day, especially on winter days, to provide the skin with constant protection.

SQUALANE IN COSMETICS FOR WINTER

Squalane is an irreplaceable ingredient in winter cosmetics because it rebuilds the skin's lipid barrier. This ingredient also protects the hydrolipid barrier, moisturizes and regenerates the skin without weighing it down. Its light consistency and versatility mean that it can be used by people with all skin types, as well as on hair. Regular use of squalane in winter helps maintain healthy, moisturized and elastic skin, even in difficult weather conditions.

What is squalane? Squalane is a stabilized form of squalene, a natural lipid found in human sebum. In cosmetics, it comes mainly from plants such as olives, sugar cane and amaranth. It is light, non-greasy and absorbs quickly, making it ideal for all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin.

Why is squalane ideal for winter? It perfectly protects the hydrolipid barrier and strengthens the skin's protective barrier, which is exposed to damage caused by frost and wind in winter.

Reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), helping skin retain moisture. Acts as a natural emollient, softening skin and making it silky smooth. Helps retain moisture in the skin, which is crucial in dry winter conditions.

Squalane supports skin regeneration by helping to repair micro-damage caused by extreme weather conditions. It soothes irritation and redness, which are a common problem in winter. Unlike some oils, squalane does not clog pores, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and combination skin.

Protective natural ingredients that create a barrier

Cosmetics with plant waxes, such as Hello Daktyl Comfort Nourishing Cream, are an excellent choice for protecting facial skin in winter. They create a protective layer on the skin's surface that prevents water loss and protects against harmful external factors, such as wind, frost or dry air.

how to care for your skin in winter with natural cosmetics with waxes

Vegetable waxes are versatile ingredients in winter and protective cosmetics . Choosing the right wax depends on the product's function - some provide durability and shine (like carnauba wax), others soften and regenerate the skin (like jojoba or shea wax). All vegetable waxes: create a protective film on the skin, protecting against external factors.

Candelilla wax (INCI: Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax) is a plant-based ingredient obtained from the leaves of the Candelilla shrub (Euphorbia cerifera). It is valued in cosmetics for its protective, thickening and delicate shine-creating properties. Often used as a plant-based alternative to beeswax, which makes it popular in vegan products.

Sunflower Wax (INCI Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax) obtained from sunflower seeds. It has a moisturizing and protective effect, helps stabilize the emulsion.

Vegetable wax obtained from acacia flowers (INCI Acacia Decurrens Flower Wax) is valued in cosmetics for its protective, moisturizing and conditioning properties, as well as for its ability to give products a smooth and creamy consistency. It creates a thin protective layer on the skin surface, which prevents moisture loss. It protects against harmful external factors, such as frost, wind or pollution

protective active ingredients - bate-glucan and oat extract

Beta-glucan and oat extract are active ingredients that support the skin's protective barrier thanks to their unique regenerative, protective and anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients are particularly effective in winter skin care and for people with skin problems such as atopic dermatitis, eczema or hypersensitivity.

Beta-glucan is a polysaccharide obtained mainly from oats, yeast or fungi. It has protective and regenerative effects. It creates a thin protective layer on the skin surface, which prevents water loss (TEWL) and protects against harmful external factors. It reduces irritation and inflammation, strengthening the protective barrier of sensitive skin. It soothes the skin, which is especially important when it is damaged, e.g. as a result of cold or dry air. It stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen, which strengthens the skin structure and improves its resistance. It accelerates the regeneration of damaged epidermis.

Oat extract is an ingredient rich in bioactive compounds such as beta-glucan, polyphenols, avenanthramides and fatty acids. This ingredient has a significant effect on the skin's protective barrier. Thanks to avenanthramides, it has a strong anti-inflammatory and anti-itching effect, reducing redness and irritation. It is ideal for atopic, dry and sensitive skin. The film-forming compounds contained in it create a delicate protective barrier on the skin's surface, which limits water loss. It accelerates the regeneration of damage in the skin's protective layer. It protects skin lipids and proteins from oxidative stress, which strengthens the function of the hydrolipid barrier.

vitamins for winter

Vitamins E, A and C are a trio that perfectly support the skin in winter, protecting it from external factors, moisturizing and regenerating. Vitamin E is ideal for protection and moisturizing, vitamin A stimulates skin regeneration and renewal, and vitamin C brightens and protects against oxidative stress. Regular use of these vitamins in winter care will help keep the skin healthy, firm and radiant throughout the season.

Vitamin E (Tocopherol) in winter cosmetics has an antioxidant effect. It protects the skin from oxidative stress caused by pollution and UV radiation (also in winter). It retains moisture in the skin, preventing it from drying out. It creates a protective barrier, protecting the skin from frost, wind and dry air. It supports the reconstruction of the epidermis and soothes irritations. It is often found in protective and regenerating creams.

Vitamin A in cosmetics is found under the INCI name: Retinol , Retinyl Palmitate , Retinoic Acid . Retinol can sensitize the skin, so in winter it should be used with moisturizing and protective creams and always use a cream with SPF during the day. Sensitive skin will like Retinol H10, which is a safer form of retinol.

Retinol stimulates cell renewal, improving skin texture. Stimulates collagen production, which increases skin firmness and elasticity. Evens out skin tone, reducing discoloration by gently exfoliating - removing dead skin. It is best to use it as a serum at night.

We can include vitamin C in our winter care. It is a strong antioxidant. It neutralizes free radicals, protecting the skin from smog and UV radiation. It has a strengthening effect on the skin. It helps strengthen blood vessels, which is important in winter for people with vascular skin. It is worth using a day serum, brightening creams or nourishing masks. For all skin types, especially gray, tired and with signs of aging. Vitamin C brightens the skin, giving it a healthy glow.

cosmetic ingredients that soothe the skin in winter

Winter cosmetics often contain soothing ingredients that not only help protect the skin from harmful external factors (wind, frost, dry air) but also soothe irritations and reduce redness. soothe. Such ingredients include allantoin and centella asiatica.

how does allantoin work in winter?

Allantoin is an ingredient valued in cosmetics for its soothing properties, making it an excellent choice for winter facial care. It is a derivative of urea and occurs naturally in some plants, such as comfrey. Allantoin soothes irritation and redness caused by cold.

Why is allantoin ideal for winter facial care? Allantoin soothes redness and relieves irritation, which is common in winter due to frost, wind and dry air. Reduces the feeling of burning and itching of the skin.

Supports skin repair processes, accelerating the healing of minor damage that may result from winter conditions. Helps rebuild the skin's protective barrier. Prevents the feeling of roughness, which is particularly bothersome in winter. Creates a delicate protective layer on the skin, which protects it from harmful external factors, such as frost, wind and dry air.

It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, dry and atopic. It does not cause irritation or allergies, which makes it safe for even the most demanding skin. You will find it in the Snail Slime Essence .

soothing properties of Asian pennywort

Centella asiatica, also known as gotu kola, cica or tiger grass, is an excellent ingredient in winter cosmetics that has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for even the most demanding skin.

Asiatic pennywort is one of the active ingredients of Reishi Day Cream.

Centella asiatica contains compounds such as asiaticoside, madecassoside, which stimulate collagen synthesis. It helps in the regeneration of epidermis damage caused by frost, wind and dry air.

It quickly reduces redness, irritation and itching of the skin, which often appear in winter, so it is ideal for sensitive and atopy-prone skin.

Pennywort helps rebuild the skin's hydrolipid layer, preventing moisture loss and protecting against external factors.

what ingredients to avoid in winter skin care

Winter skin care requires special attention to avoid ingredients and habits that can worsen skin condition, especially in conditions of low temperatures, wind and dry air.

In winter skin care, avoid drying and irritating ingredients. You should not use cosmetics with alcohol because it can dry out the skin and disrupt the hydrolipid barrier.

Avoid facial gels and soaps with aggressive detergents (e.g. SLS – Sodium Lauryl Sulfate). They remove natural lipids, which leads to dryness and irritation.

Highly concentrated acids (e.g. AHA, BHA) can excessively exfoliate the skin, which is especially problematic in winter, when the skin is more sensitive.

Avoid high doses of retinoids. They can cause redness, peeling, and skin sensitivity to cold.

Menthol, camphor and essential oils in large quantities may cause irritation or a burning sensation.

bad winter skincare habits

An improper winter care routine can have negative effects on our skin.

One mistake is not moisturizing your skin enough. Even oily skin needs moisture in the winter to maintain a healthy protective barrier.

A common mistake is to use hot water when washing your face. Hot baths or washing your face with warm water can weaken the hydrolipid barrier, leading to dryness.

Not using sun protection is a serious oversight because UV radiation also acts in winter, especially on snow-covered surfaces, being reflected and intensifying its effect.

Often, skin condition is worsened by avoiding scarves or face masks. Exposed skin is more susceptible to irritation and redness.

How to choose a cream for winter? Look for products with a combination of moisturizing, soothing and protective ingredients. Avoid denatured alcohol, which can additionally dry out the skin. Choose creams with a rich consistency that create a delicate protective film on the skin.