7 Winter Beauty Tips, According to a Dermatologist

While we love winter for the holiday season, cozy sweaters, and hot chocolate, we don't love how the cold temperature affects our skin. It seems as if overnight our skin goes from being nourished and plump to dry and cracked.

"In the winter, there is naturally less moisture in the air due to the environment and abrasive conditions, like the wind. Indoor factors like central heating can also decrease the moisture level of the air," explained dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman. "This makes it harder for the skin to maintain its natural protective oils, which act as a barrier against environmental aggressors. As a result, moisture gets pulled from the skin, leading it to become dry and cracked." 

While this is a common skin issue come winter, it's not necessarily inevitable. There are ways to update your skincare routine to maintain healthy, hydrated skin all season long.

Meet the expert

Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.

Keep scrolling for seven winter beauty tips that are dermatologist-approved.

Use a Humidifier

"By replenishing moisture in the air and keeping the humidity at an ideal level (about 40-60 percent), humidifiers help protect your skin when you're indoors," said Dr. Engelman. 

She recommended the Canopy humidifier ($150) as it's built with technology that prevents mold and bacteria from growing and has an evaporative system, meaning that it only releases pure, hydrated air — not water vapor.

Avoid Taking Hot Showers

"In the winter, especially, it is tempting to crank up the heat, but hot water strips the oils from your skin and can leave it more susceptible to drying out, cracking, and flaking," said Dr. Engelman. 

Try to cool it on the water temp to preserve whatever bit of moisture you can.

Moisturize When Your Skin Is Still Damp

After your not-too-hot shower (or face washing), Dr. Engelman suggested applying your body oil or lotion before your skin has totally dried. 

"This helps lock in additional moisture," she explained.

VIDEO: 7 Expert Tips on How to Apply Makeup on Dry Skin and Avoid Flakes

Moisturize Your Lips

"Lips can get extremely dry in the winter, as this skin is thinner and constantly exposed to the elements," noted Dr. Engelman. 

The skin on our lips has between three and five cellular layers, whereas the rest of our skin has about 16. Also, unlike the skin on the rest of our body, the skin on our lips doesn't have oil glands to keep them moisturized. Because of this, it's extremely important to take care of them. 

Dr. Engelman recommended using the Lano Original 101 Ointment ($17) as its formula holds 200 percent of its weight in moisture and quickly heals dry, cracked skin.

Drink Lots of Water

While we all know how important it is to stay hydrated, Dr. Engelman pointed out that many people forget to drink water when it's cold out. 

"In the winter, skin can't retain moisture as well, and drinking water helps replenish some of that hydration," she said.

Check Your Skincare Ingredients

While you likely have a favorite moisturizer you lean toward, Dr. Engelman suggested looking at the ingredient list on the back of your products and making sure you're using ultra-nourishing ones this time of year.

"Hyaluronic acid is a superstar ingredient for hydration as it can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water," she said. "Ceramides and peptides strengthen and restore the skin barrier, helping skin retain moisture. Squalane, shea, and lightweight hydrating oils — like jojoba — are also great for helping skin stay hydrated."

Don't Skimp on Hand Care

During winter, it doesn't suffice to apply hand cream in the morning and call it a day. Instead, keep a moisturizer at your desk, in your car, and in your purse so you remember to reapply. For an extra dose of hydration, use cuticle oil once a day to keep your nails in tip-top shape, too.

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