Winter is coming, and while the snow and cozy sweaters are great, your skin might not feel the same way. Dry air, icy winds, and cranked-up indoor heat can leave your skin begging for moisture. The good news? With the right routine and a few hydration heroes in your corner, you can keep your skin looking fresh and glowing all season long. Let’s break it down step by step—because winter skin deserves some extra TLC.
Alicia Warner
Alicia Warner of FACTORFIVE is a seasoned professional with over 16 years of experience in the aesthetics industry, specializing in skincare, injectables, chemical peels, advanced devices, and skincare supplements. A passionate educator and innovative leader, she has dedicated her career to not only mastering her craft but also helping others excel through transformative education and talent development.
Alicia’s educational foundation includes a Bachelor’s in Mass Communication with a minor in Film and Photography, as well as a Master’s in Training and Talent Development. This combination of creative insight and structured learning has enabled her to lead teams and mentor professionals, driving growth in individuals and organizations alike.
Throughout her career, Alicia has built a reputation as a visionary in curriculum development. She has designed comprehensive programs covering a wide spectrum of the aesthetics industry, from foundational skincare practices to advanced injectable techniques and the growing field of skincare supplements. Her ability to adapt to the fast-paced evolution of the industry ensures her programs are always on the cutting edge.
3-Step Winter Skin Survival Guide
Step 1: Cleanse (Gently, Please!)
Cleansing is where it all starts, but here’s the deal: winter is no time for harsh, stripping cleansers. Instead, go for something gentle and hydrating that cleans your skin without leaving it tight and dry.
Look for ingredients like:
• Aloe Vera: Think of this as a tall glass of water for your face. Aloe soothes, hydrates, and refreshes like nothing else.
• Acmella Oleracea Extract: Fancy name, but it’s basically a natural alternative to Botox. It smooths out fine lines while keeping your skin happy and hydrated.
• Green Tea Extract: Packed with antioxidants, it’s like a superhero for your skin—protecting, rejuvenating, and giving you that healthy glow.
A good cleanser sets the stage for everything that comes next, so make it count. And remember, no scrubbing like you’re washing dishes—be kind to your skin!
Step 2: Moisturize Like You Mean It
Winter weather calls for a moisturizer that does more than the bare minimum. You want something rich enough to hydrate but not so heavy it feels greasy. The key is finding the right mix of ingredients to lock in moisture and protect your skin barrier.
Here’s what to look for:
• Sodium Hyaluronate: This ingredient is like a moisture magnet, pulling water into your skin and keeping it there. Plump, hydrated skin? Yes, please!
• Shea Butter: Think of shea butter as your skin’s winter coat. It seals in moisture and keeps the cold from drying you out.
• Niacinamide: This multitasker boosts your skin’s barrier, calms redness, and helps hold onto hydration. Bonus: it’s great for all skin types.
• Growth Factors: These sound super science-y (because they are), but all you need to know is they help your skin heal, firm up, and stay hydrated.
• Tripeptide-1 Copper Acetate: Another fancy name, but this peptide is a game-changer for skin firmness and hydration.
Apply your moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in all that goodness. And don’t forget your neck—it needs love, too!
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Step 3: Mask Up (The Fun Kind)
Winter weekends are made for cozying up with a face mask. A good hydrating mask is like an instant skin pick-me-up, giving your face the boost it needs to combat the cold.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
• Look for masks with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid.
• Avoid drying culprits like alcohol or heavily fragranced products (your skin will thank you!).
Pop on a mask once or twice a week, let it work its magic for 10–15 minutes, then rinse it off and follow up with your moisturizer. Pro tip: This is also a great excuse for a self-care moment—grab a cup of tea or your favorite book while you wait.
Winter Skin Tips to Keep in Mind
• Turn Down the Heat: Hot showers feel amazing, but they’re a fast track to dry skin. Stick to lukewarm water and save your skin’s natural oils.
• Invest in a Humidifier: If your home feels like the Sahara Desert thanks to indoor heating, a humidifier is your new BFF. It keeps the air (and your skin) hydrated.
• Drink Up: Hydration starts from the inside out, so don’t skimp on your water intake. Bonus points for eating water-rich foods like cucumbers and oranges!
The Bottom Line
Winter might be tough on your skin, but with the right routine, you can keep it hydrated, happy, and glowing. Start with a gentle cleanser, follow up with a moisturizer that works overtime, and treat yourself to a hydrating mask every week. It’s all about giving your skin the love it deserves—because winter doesn’t have to mean dull, dry skin.