Skincare mistakes to avoid this winter

Winter brings a number of unique challenges for the skin. Cold temperatures, low humidity and blistering wind all take a toll, leading to dryness and damage. To keep your skin in top condition this winter, it’s essential to avoid the following common skincare mistakes. 

Mistake 1: Not making changes to your regimen 

You might think you have the perfect skincare regimen, but it’s important to note that what works for you in summer won’t necessarily work in winter. The colder months require you to prioritise hydration, thicker creams and additional layers to give you the protection you need. Those lightweight, oil-free products that feel so good on hot summer days won’t cut it on their own when the temperature drops.  

For some, regimen changes can be as simple as using a mask occasionally or adding a thicker moisturiser on top of existing products, while for others more extensive alterations may be needed. Liberty Belle Rx’s Date Night Deep Hydration Mask is a good place to start when considering how to improve hydration and barrier function this winter. Apply at night as the last step in your regimen whenever you feel you need a boost. This mask is especially suited to dry skin types who find winter particularly tough on their skin. 

Mistake 2: Not staying hydrated 

Cold weather, wind and low humidity strip the skin of its moisture and compromise the skin barrier. Be sure to apply replenishing and hydrating products morning and evening to keep your skin protected. It’s also important to hydrate your skin from the inside by drinking plenty of water. 

You can fight dehydration by applying Glam Squad, our Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B serum. Hyaluronic Acid is capable of holding 1000 times its weight in water, while Vitamin B Niacinamide and Panthenol work to reinforce the skin barrier. This product is suitable for all skin types, making it the perfect hydrating addition to any regimen. Seal in the benefits of Glam Squad by applying a rich moisturiser over the top. 

Mistake 3: Not wearing SPF 

One of the biggest misconceptions is that sunscreen is only necessary in summer. In fact, UV rays are present year-round and can easily damage your skin even on overcast and cold days.  

We recommend that you add Superstar, our SPF 50+ sunscreen, to your skincare arsenal to ensure you stay protected. Simply apply as the last step in your regimen, but before any make-up.  

If you’re hitting the slopes this winter, it’s especially important that you wear sunscreen. Altitude can increase UV exposure, while snow reflects UV rays back onto the face, potentially leading to nasty burns. Take Superstar with you on your ski trip to keep your skin protected. 

Mistake 4: Exfoliating too much 

Exfoliation is crucial for removing dead skin cells and keeping the skin healthy and blemish-free, but harsh exfoliants or too-frequent exfoliation can strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating the drying effects of cold winter air. 

We recommend using Quiet Achiever, our gentle leave-on exfoliant, a max of 2-3 times a week so you can get the benefits of exfoliation without overdoing it. This amazing product uses a blend of botanical AHAs to gently remove dead skin cells and brighten the complexion, while nourishing butters and hydrating ingredients soothe the skin and support barrier function.  

Mistake 5: Ignoring humidity levels 

There is less moisture in the air during winter, which can leave your skin dry and irritated. This is often exacerbated by the use of indoor heating systems, which decrease humidity levels indoors. Consider adding a humidifier to the rooms you spend the most time in, such as your bedroom or office.   

If you are spending a lot of time in low humidity environments, a face oil is a good choice to keep your skin protected. We recommend a daily AM application of Godsend, our luxe radiance oil. Made from a blend of 10 plant-derived super oils, Godsend works to prevent dryness by sealing in moisture and preventing water loss through the skin. It also offers skin conditioning benefits, building the lipid barrier to keep you supple. Apply a thin layer as the final step in your regimen, but before sunscreen. 

Mistake 6: Neglecting your hands 

After spending all your time curating the perfect regimen for your face, it can be easy to forget that your hands need extra TLC in winter too. Wear gloves if it’s bitterly cold and be sure to keep them moisturised. We recommend Belle Intensive Rejuvenating Hand Cream to soothe dry, chapped hands. 

Mistake 7: Using harsh cleansers 

Cold weather and low humidity strip the skin of its protective oils, which means it’s important to use a cleanser that won’t exacerbate the problem. Avoid cleansers that contain alcohol or sulfates and opt for gentle, hydrating formulas that support the skin barrier.  

Our go-to option in winter is Heartfelt, a gentle rose cream cleanser. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, Heartfelt works to remove impurities by simply melting them away, leaving soft skin and a subtle rose scent behind. 

Mistake 8: Taking excessively hot showers and baths 

It can be tempting to take long, hot showers in winter to warm up, but hot water tends to strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness and irritation. Aim to take short, warm showers and gently pat your skin dry afterwards to avoid damage. 

If any parts of your body seem particularly dry after showering, apply a spot treatment of Belle, our luxurious and restorative hand cream. This rich cream was formulated to soothe hands but is suitable for use anywhere on the body. 

Mistake 9: Not using a moisturiser 

If you’re the kind of person who likes to just cleanse and apply a serum or toner to keep your skin feeling light and fresh, it’s time to invest in a moisturiser. This will provide a protective seal over your face to help combat the drying and damaging effects of winter weather. Without a moisturiser, it’s simply too easy for the skin barrier to be compromised. 

Choose between Power Broker (for red, oily and sensitive skin types), Superhero (for normal to combination skin) and Star Quality (for normal, dry or mature skin). Apply your moisturiser every morning to reinforce the skin barrier and every evening for a restorative boost overnight.  

If you find your skin becomes particularly red in winter, Power Broker will be the best choice for you due to its hero ingredient, Anti-Redness Complex. If winter dryness is more your concern, our richest cream Star Quality may be more suitable. 

We hope this blog has helped you to understand how winter affects the skin and which mistakes to avoid when curating your skincare regimen. For more advice on how to keep your skin looking its best this winter, book a Virtual Skin Consultation for FREE with our expert Dermal Clinicians.