THE SECRET STEPS FOR DRY WINTER SKIN AND HAIR.

December 18, 2024

As winter approaches in our region, the colder temperatures and drop in humidity can leave your skin and hair feeling drier than usual. The chilly air strips away moisture, leaving them rough, lackluster, and prone to damage. But with the right care and protection, you can maintain hydration and keep your skin and hair healthy all season long. Here’s how to protect your skin and hair from winter dryness:

USE RICH MOISTURIZERS FOR YOUR SKIN

To combat dryness, switch to a richer moisturizer during the colder months. Your regular moisturizer may not provide enough hydration when the air gets dry. Look for products with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides—ingredients that help lock moisture into the skin.

I recommend using lightweight oils like jojoba oil or argan oil to seal in hydration. These oils are deeply nourishing and work well for various skin types. Jojoba oil mimics the skin’s natural oils, making it especially effective at restoring moisture balance. Argan oil, rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, nourishes and protects the skin from environmental damage.

INCORPORATE HEALING OILS INTO YOUR HAIR CARE ROUTINE

Your hair needs extra care in winter too. Dry air and indoor heating can leave your hair frizzy, brittle, and prone to split ends. I swear by argan oil and coconut oil for winter hair care. Argan oil, packed with vitamin E, helps restore shine and reduce frizz, while coconut oil deeply penetrates the hair shaft to provide moisture from within.

For added protection, consider using a leave-in conditioner infused with oils like rosehip oil, which helps maintain moisture balance, or castor oil, which nourishes dry hair and promotes healthy hair growth.

AVOID HOT SHOWERS AND BATHS

Though hot showers are tempting in winter, hot water can strip your skin and hair of their natural oils, leaving them dry and irritated. Opt for lukewarm water instead, and keep your showers brief to preserve your skin’s moisture barrier. After showering, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel and apply a rich body lotion or oil, such as vitamin E oil or olive oil, to lock in moisture.

WEAR A HUMIDIFIER

Air conditioning can make indoor air especially dry during winter, depleting moisture from your skin and hair. Using a humidifier in your home can help restore lost humidity and keep the air moist. This is especially important at night—leave the humidifier running while you sleep to keep your skin and hair hydrated.

PROTECT YOUR SKIN AND HAIR FROM THE COLD

When heading outside, make sure to protect your skin and hair from the cold. Wear a scarf or hat to shield your skin from harsh air and prevent static or damage to your hair. Don’t forget to wear gloves and regularly moisturize your hands to avoid dry, cracked skin.

Also, take care of your lips, use a nourishing lip balm with shea butter or beeswax to keep them soft and hydrated.

HYDRATE FROM WITHIN

Hydration starts from within. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even when it’s cold outside. Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger tea can help keep your body hydrated while offering additional antioxidant protection to your skin.

TRY A DEEP CONDITIONING TREATMENT

Treat your hair to a deep conditioning treatment once a week. This helps replenish moisture and nourish dry strands. You can use a pre-made deep conditioner or make your own by mixing olive oil, avocado oil, and honey—rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids that hydrate and restore dry hair.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHAMPOO

When selecting shampoo for winter, opt for sulfate-free formulas enriched with moisturizing ingredients like keratin, glycerin, or aloe vera. These will cleanse your hair without stripping it of its natural oils. For extra moisture, try Aesop’s Classic Shampoo, which contains rosemary leaf oil and cypress oil to hydrate and soothe dry hair.