I've packed in all the secrets to maintaining that radiant glow, even when the weather's trying to dull your shine. Discover how a simple oil cleanser, the right moisturizer, and a few well-chosen products can make all the difference in the world.

If you’ve been skiing in the winter you know you have to prepare to hit the slopes with the right gear, and you also need to prep your skincare routine for the changes the cold weather brings. 

While your skin does need a little extra help, your skin type hasn't changed so effective skincare in the winter just means incorporating a couple of changes into your routine. It’s a lot easier than you think…keep reading for my top 6 tips for your winter skincare routine (and products to go with them)!

1. Oil Cleanse

Every evening you should use the double cleanse method year round, but it’s especially important in winter. The first step is an oil cleanser, which ensures your face is thoroughly cleansed from makeup, impurities, and layers of dry skin that develop through the day. If you aren’t sure what the double cleanse method is, now is the time to learn!

2. Decrease or Stop Medicated Cleansers

Winter months are all about decreasing active ingredients. The cold air is rough on your skin and you need to do your best to protect the skin layers, which serves as the moisture barrier. Medicated cleansers, while helpful, can be more harmful in the winter months. My best advice? Switch to a gentle hydrating cleanser twice a day. Your oil cleanser can serve this role too.. see why #1 is indeed number one!

3. Add a Thicker Moisturizer at Night

If you’ve been here for a while, then you know that you need to wear moisturizer in the morning and at night. In the winter, you want to add a thick moisturizer to help rejuvenate skin cells overnight. This can be done in addition to slugging, which is using a greasy emollient like aquaphor all over your face. Both of these will help keep your face properly moisturized throughout the day.

PRO TIP: NEVER slug over active ingredients - retinoids, AHA, BHA, etc.

4. Moisturize Before Sunscreen

By now, I hope you understand the importance of applying sunscreen daily. If not, here’s a quick refresher: sun exposure can lead to premature aging, skin damage, and not to mention skin cancer (yikes!).

So, in the winter, you should use your night time moisturizer or a lightweight one from warmer months every morning before applying your SPF. Applying your moisturizer before the sunscreen (and before makeup) will help not only moisturize your skin but also aid the sunscreen with SPF protection for your face. 

You should apply sunscreen EVERY morning even on cold days. Your skin needs sunscreen protection in Winter too. 

5. Add a Hydrating Mask

Cold air holds less moisture. When moisture is taken away, this is what causes your skin to get dry, itchy, and inflamed. To prevent this you should add in a hydrating mask a few times weekly. This will help bring in moisture to refresh your skin. 

6. Decrease Toner Usage

I present you with three options when it comes to toners in your winter skincare routine. 

• Decrease your toners to once a day
• Change your toner to a hydrating one or an essence
• Remove your toner altogether

By doing one of these three options, you will help keep needed natural oils on your face while keeping your face clean and providing that winter glow you want.

Some final thoughts when it comes to your winter skincare routine and taking care of yourself…

Winter is all about protecting the skin barrier.

Dry skin leads to inflammation, which is a culprit in sensitized skin, eczema, and melasma.

I’m sure you noticed a common theme of extra hydration and nourishment for your skin in all these steps. For good reason too! It’s the most effective way to keep your skin glowing!

A compromised skin barrier can let bacteria and yeast on the skin enter into the skin and cause sensitivity, burning, and breakouts.

To help make caring for your skin in the winter easier, I’ve compiled my favorite products I use during this time. Click the button below to shop my winter shelf.