Winter's Aggressive Assault on Your Skin
If winter had a personality, dermatologists describe it as dry, aggressive, and relentlessly dehydrating. Your skin feels this transformation first. As temperatures drop and indoor heating rises, skin across all climates undergoes a quiet but significant change. Tightness replaces bounce, glow gives way to dullness, and sensitivity creeps in where resilience once thrived.
This Is Not Just Cosmetic Folklore
Scientific research consistently demonstrates that cold weather and low humidity weaken the skin barrier. They accelerate moisture loss, making winter one of the most challenging seasons for skin health. In an interview with the Times of India, Dr. Ravali Yalamanchili, MD DVL and Chief Dermatologist at Neya Dermatology and Aesthetics, shared her insights.
"During the winter months, the skin frequently feels tight," Dr. Yalamanchili explained. "It often appears dull and dehydrated. The skin's natural barrier gets damaged due to lower humidity, indoor heating, and cold winds. This damage causes the skin to lose its moisture, leading to increased sensitivity. Addressing these seasonal changes requires a routine that supports hydration, strengthens the barrier, and restores radiance. With the right essentials, winter can become a period of renewal rather than discomfort."
Understanding Regional Skin Challenges
Winter brings a noticeable shift in how skin behaves. Understanding these changes is the first step toward effective care. Oscar Pereira, Founder and Skincare Formulator at CodeSkin, brought his expertise to the discussion.
"Skin health is directly governed by weather," Pereira revealed. "Winter affects every region differently. In coastal areas, humidity keeps the skin relatively balanced. But in landlocked cities in north India like Delhi, the cold, dry air pulls moisture out of the skin. This leads to dehydration, dullness, flakiness, and a constant feeling of tightness. The skin barrier becomes compromised, increasing sensitivity and irritation."
The Science Behind Winter Dehydration
A landmark 2017 study published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology examined how moisturizing ingredients perform under dry conditions. Researchers concluded that the combination of glycerin (5%) and hyaluronic acid (1%) significantly increased skin hydration. It reduced transepidermal water loss for up to 24 hours after application.
This finding is critical because transepidermal water loss (TEWL) spikes in winter. This invisible evaporation of moisture from skin leaves it tight, flaky, and inflamed. There is something magical about winter with cozy sweaters, hot chai, and snuggling under blankets. But our skin does not always share this enthusiasm. Between dry indoor air, cold winds, and long hot showers, winter can leave your skin dull, flaky, and dehydrated.
Good News for Your Winter Routine
You do not need to overhaul your entire beauty routine to survive the chill. A few thoughtful tweaks can make your skin glow even in the harshest winter months. Here are five winter beauty habits your skin will truly thank you for. All are easy, affordable, and totally doable during an Indian winter.
Dr. Yalamanchili emphasized moisture loss as one of the most noticeable winter concerns. "A combination of lipid-rich moisturizers and hydrating serums helps replenish water levels and prevent surface dryness," she said. "Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin draw moisture in and reinforce the barrier. This keeps the skin supple throughout the day. Humectants work best when paired with occlusives, especially at night. This seals hydration and reduces transepidermal water loss."
Why Ceramides Matter More in Winter
A stable barrier is central to healthy winter skin. "Switching to a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser prevents unnecessary stripping and reduces irritation," Dr. Yalamanchili explained. "Once or twice weekly exfoliation keeps the skin smooth. But it must remain controlled to avoid disrupting the barrier. Enzyme-based or mild acid exfoliants provide clarity without causing dryness."
Ceramides are natural fats that hold skin cells together. Winter strips them away faster than any other season. Another peer-reviewed study published in The Journal of Dermatological Science (2013) investigated the lipid structure of winter-affected skin. Researchers found a direct link between dryness and ceramide depletion. The authors wrote, "Reduced ceramide levels in the stratum corneum were strongly associated with increased skin dryness and impaired barrier function."
In-Clinic Hydration Support
For individuals experiencing persistent dehydration or loss of firmness, dermatologists increasingly recommend injectable bio-remodelling treatments such as Profhilo. These serve as reinforcements, not replacements. A 2025 open-label clinical study evaluating Profhilo, published in an Asian dermatology journal, reported significant findings.
Participants demonstrated a significant reduction in transepidermal water loss. They showed measurable improvement in superficial skin hydration and elasticity following treatment. Dr. Yalamanchili suggested, "For individuals who experience severe dehydration or whose skin loses its firmness during winter, they can rely on in-clinic hydrating solutions for an extra boost."
"Incorporating treatments like Profhilo, which enhances the skin's moisture retention and elasticity, can be very beneficial," she continued. "It builds a strong foundation for your skin during colder months. Moreover, this treatment enhances the skin's ability to stay healthy. It supports the use of skincare products instead of substituting them. The skin will maintain a beautiful and soft appearance even with low atmospheric humidity when such treatment combines with topical care."
Why Sunscreen Still Matters in Cold Weather
Contrary to popular belief, winter sun is not gentler on skin. UVA rays, responsible for pigmentation and premature ageing, remain constant year-round. A 2018 comprehensive review published in Photodermatology, Photoimmunology and Photomedicine confirmed this fact.
"UVA radiation levels remain relatively stable throughout the year," the review stated. "They contribute significantly to photoaging and inflammation, regardless of season." On dehydrated winter skin, UV exposure worsens pigmentation, redness, and sensitivity. This makes sunscreen an essential, not optional, step.
Dr. Yalamanchili addressed this common oversight. "People often forget sun protection during winter," she said. "But the fact is that UVA levels stay the same throughout all seasons. Therefore, it is essential to add effective sunscreen to your routine. It should fight against a wide range of radiation and stop skin from tanning, pigmentation, and inflammation. These issues become more visible on dehydrated skin. Those prone to breakouts benefit from lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas. This avoids congestion associated with heavier winter products."
Dermatologist-Approved Winter Formula
To maintain a soft, glowing complexion through the season, prioritize hydration, nourishment, and barrier support. According to Pereira, essential winter staples include:
- A gentle hydrating cleanser
- A moisture-binding serum
- A rich moisturizer or barrier cream
- A face oil when required
- Lip balm
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen
He recommended focusing on ingredients that strengthen the barrier and enhance moisture retention. "Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, shea butter, vitamin E, and niacinamide perform exceptionally well in winter," Pereira said. "They restore lost hydration, reduce transepidermal water loss, and give the skin a healthier, more luminous appearance."
Routine adjustments become essential as temperatures drop. "A successful winter routine is all about intentional layering," Pereira explained. "Switching to gentle cleansers, incorporating hydrating toners, and applying serums on damp skin can enhance absorption and boost hydration."
Maintaining Radiant Winter Skin
To maintain a radiant winter glow, Pereira advised several practical steps:
- Exfoliate once a week to remove dullness
- Layer serum and moisturizer for long-lasting hydration
- Use a humidifier indoors
- Increase water and healthy fat intake to support skin from within
He also cautioned against common winter mistakes. "People often take hot showers, skip sunscreen, or use lightweight summer moisturizers," Pereira noted. "These habits worsen dryness and accelerate barrier damage. From a formulation point of view, the balance between oil and moisture is important. A good winter moisturizer must combine emollients, occlusives, and barrier-strengthening actives."
The Bottom Line on Winter Skincare
Winter does not dull skin. Barrier damage does. Science confirms that with the right ingredients, thoughtful layering, and consistent protection, glowing skin is not seasonal. It is structural. Winter skincare does not have to be complicated. Following three simple steps keeps skin soft and radiant:
- Hydrate consistently
- Strengthen the barrier
- Protect from environmental factors
Using carefully selected products and treatments helps maintain natural balance. It makes skin healthy from within and vibrant during colder months.
Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment. Consult before changing your diet or supplement regimen.
