Winter Dry Skin Routine
In winter, shorten showers, use warm water, moisturise immediately and consider switching from lotion to cream. Protect hands and lips outdoors, use ointment selectively on very dry spots and reduce optional exfoliating products if the skin becomes irritated. Seek advice for painful cracks, bleeding or persistent inflammation.
What matters most.
- Hot showers can amplify the effects of cold, dry weather.
- Creams and ointments generally hold more moisture than lotions.
- Hands, lips and shins deserve targeted protection.
- Humidifiers must be cleaned regularly to avoid mould and contamination.
Morning: protect the exposed areas
Use a comfortable moisturiser on the face and hands before going outside, allowing it to settle before sunscreen or gloves. Apply lip balm or petroleum jelly if the lips crack easily.
Choose soft layers against the skin. Wool and rough synthetic fabrics can add friction, so a cotton or silk layer beneath them may feel better. Gloves also reduce exposure during wet work and outdoor cold.
- Fragrance-free facial moisturiser
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin
- Lip protection
- Gloves for cold and wet work
Washing: turn down temperature and duration
A steaming shower feels appealing in winter but can leave dry skin tighter. Keep baths and showers to roughly five to ten minutes with warm water, then pat rather than rub.
Use a gentle cleanser only where needed. Apply cream or ointment while the skin remains slightly damp, paying particular attention to shins, elbows, hands and feet.
Night: use richer texture where it earns its place
An evening shower creates a practical time for full-body cream. Add a thin ointment layer over knuckles, heels or another stubborn area if the skin is intact and the product is suitable.
Avoid turning the entire routine into heavy occlusion. Greasy layers can trap heat, transfer to bedding and feel unpleasant. Target the driest zones and keep emollient-contaminated fabrics away from flames and cigarettes.
- Cream over the body
- Ointment on localised rough areas
- Cotton gloves or socks only if comfortable and safe
- Regular washing of treated fabrics
Adjust the room, not just the jar
Indoor heating reduces humidity. Use moderate room temperatures and consider a cool-mist humidifier in the bedroom if the air is very dry. Clean and maintain it exactly as instructed.
If skin remains raw, itchy or inflamed despite these changes, a clinician can assess whether eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis or another condition is contributing.
Common questions,
clearly answered.
Is lotion enough in winter?+
It can be for mild dryness, but creams and ointments generally provide more water-loss protection. Use the lightest texture that maintains comfort.
Should I exfoliate winter flakes?+
Not by default. Aggressive scrubs and frequent acids can worsen an already-irritated barrier. Moisturise first and seek advice for persistent scale.
Does a humidifier help dry skin?+
It may help when indoor air is dry. It should be cleaned regularly, and it complements rather than replaces moisturiser and gentler washing.
How this guide was prepared
Our editorial team used the following authoritative health and dermatology resources. This guide provides general information and does not diagnose or replace personalised medical care.
Published 12 January 2025. Last updated 12 March 2025. We revisit guides when source guidance or relevant product information changes.