Why Your Skin Needs a Different Routine in Winter

When the temperatures drop, our routines naturally change. We pull out the warmer clothes, turn up the heat and spend more time indoors.

But have you thought about what winter does to your skin?

Cold outdoor air, wind, indoor heating and frequent temperature changes can leave skin feeling dry, tight and uncomfortable. Your usual skincare routine might not feel quite as effective as it did during the warmer months.

The good news? You don't need an entirely new collection of products. A few thoughtful adjustments can make a difference.

1. Give Your Skin a Little More Moisture

One of the most common winter skincare complaints is dryness.

Cold air and low humidity can contribute to moisture loss, while indoor heating can make the air inside your home even drier.

If your skin feels tight after washing or becomes rough throughout the day, consider adding a richer moisturizer to your routine.

Look for products containing moisturizing ingredients such as:

- Shea butter: Helps soften and condition dry skin.

- Cocoa butter: A rich emollient that helps soften the skin.

- Plant oils: Help condition and soften the skin.

- Beeswax: Helps form a protective layer on the skin.

You may find that a lighter moisturizer works perfectly well in summer but that your skin appreciates something richer during the colder months.

2. Don't Forget Your Hands

Our hands take quite a beating during winter.

Between cold temperatures, frequent handwashing, cleaning and exposure to the elements, it's no surprise they can become dry and rough.

Keep hand care simple:

- Apply hand moisturizer after washing.

- Keep a hand cream or Hand Cream Bar nearby.

- Pay attention to knuckles and cuticles.

- Apply a little extra moisturizer before bed.

A small product beside the kitchen sink or on your bedside table can make it easier to remember.

3. Pay Attention to the Areas That Need Extra Care

Not every part of your body needs the same level of moisture.

Hands, elbows, knees, heels and other areas that tend to become dry may appreciate a little extra attention during winter.

This is where products like body butter and body butter bars can fit into your routine.

Apply after bathing or showering, when your skin is still slightly damp. This can help keep moisture from escaping as quickly.

For smaller areas that need targeted attention, a balm stick can be a convenient option to keep close by.

4. Be Gentle With Your Skin

Winter isn't necessarily the best time to overdo your skincare routine.

If your skin is already feeling dry or sensitive, harsh cleansers, excessive exfoliation and very hot showers may make it feel worse.

Try a few simple changes:

- Choose a gentle cleanser.

- Avoid very hot water.

- Don't over-exfoliate.

- Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing.

- Moisturize regularly.

Sometimes the best thing you can do for your skin is simplify your routine.

5. Keep Your Lips and Face in Mind

It's easy to remember our hands and body while forgetting about our face and lips.

Cold wind and dry indoor air can leave lips feeling uncomfortable. Keep a lip balm handy and apply it as needed.

Your face may also appreciate a little more moisture during the winter months. If your usual moisturizer isn't quite cutting it, consider whether a richer formula would suit your skin.

And don't put away your sun protection just because summer is over. UV exposure can still happen during winter, especially when spending time outdoors.

6. Make Your Winter Routine Easy to Maintain

The best skincare routine is one you'll actually follow.

You don't need ten different products or a complicated morning and evening ritual.

A simple winter routine might look like this:

Morning

- Gently cleanse your face.

- Apply your usual moisturizer.

- Use appropriate sun protection when heading outdoors.

- Apply lip balm as needed.

Throughout the day

- Moisturize your hands after washing.

- Reapply lip balm.

- Give dry areas a little extra attention.

Evening

- Gently cleanse your face.

- Apply moisturizer.

- Use body butter or a body butter bar on areas that need extra care.

- Give your hands a little extra moisture before bed.

A Little Extra Care Goes a Long Way

At Jaxon Naturals, we believe skincare doesn't have to be complicated.

Our Hand Cream Bars, Body Butter, Body Butter Bars and Smoove Stick offer simple ways to add a little extra care to your everyday routine.

Handcrafted with care here in Prince Edward Island, our products are made for those little moments when you want to slow down and look after yourself.

Winter may be hard on your skin, but your skincare routine doesn't have to be hard work.

Keep it simple, give your skin a little extra attention and enjoy the season.

Take care of your skin, naturally.