Dermatologists share how to adapt your skincare for winter

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When the weather turns colder, it is a good time to rethink your skincare routine. We asked dermatologists which swaps to make and which products are worth using.

As wardrobes change, diets shift and social plans are updated, we are firmly in a season of transition.

Winter is also an ideal moment to refresh your beauty routine, from makeup to seasonal haircuts. But one part of your regimen should not be forgotten: skincare.

Colder conditions can create new problems for skin. Falling temperatures, sharp winds and dry indoor heating can leave the skin feeling more sensitive, dehydrated and dull. Many dermatologists begin adjusting their own routines at this time of year.

To find out which changes matter most, we spoke to skin experts about the best skincare swaps and products for maintaining a healthy glow through winter. Here are five tips to know.

1. Choose richer moisturisers for longer-lasting hydration

“Autumn and winter skincare routines should change to accommodate seasonal weather and skin changes; often, this includes adding richer products,” says Dr Maryam Zamani, a leading oculoplastic surgeon, facial aesthetics doctor and founder of MZ Skin. Thicker formulas help skin retain moisture for longer, while applying moisturiser regularly and to damp skin helps lock in hydration.

Nip+Fab The Fix Cream

This rich cream combines a ceramide complex with peptides, making it a strong option for winter-weary skin.

Summer Fridays Rich Cushion Cream

A hydrating blend of glycerin, squalane and saccharide provides up to 24 hours of moisture, while chamomile helps soothe the skin’s surface.

2. Add a hydrating face mask for an extra moisture boost

“Masks are an essential component of winter skincare routines as constant changes in temperature with harsh winter winds and indoor heating can have a drying effect on the skin,” says Dr Zamani.

She suggests using a hydrating mask with hyaluronic acid once a week to increase moisture levels and bring brightness back to the complexion.

Biodance Bio-Collagen Hydrogel Overnight Face Mask

MZ Skin Hydra-Lift Golden Facial Treatment Mask

It is no surprise that this mask has Dr Zamani’s approval. It uses hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture and reveal a soft, dewy complexion, while nano-gold particles add a skin-plumping, indulgent touch.

Garnier Hyaluronic Cryo Jelly Face Mask

Like a reset for dry skin, this moisture-rich formula delivers up to 24 hours of hydration. It helps revive tired-looking skin by reducing puffiness and the appearance of dark circles, while menthol adds a cooling, soothing effect.

3. Start introducing retinol

“Dead skin from the summer months should be cleared to provide the foundation to enhance the skin and repair damage caused by UVA and UVB rays,” Dr Zamani says. That makes the colder months a good time to introduce a resurfacing ingredient such as retinol into your routine. “[Retinol] will gently refine the skin and stimulate cell turnover to help reverse the damage caused by the summer sun, resulting in healthy, refreshed and glowing skin.”

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

If you are new to retinol, consultant dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips recommends this formula. “It has a gentle formulation that helps to reduce the risk of irritation. The inclusion of topical ceramides in this serum ensures the skin barrier maintains epidermal hydration, acting as a barrier against environmental stressors and irritants.”

Elizabeth Arden Retinol and HPR Ceramide Rapid Skin Renewing Water Cream

This moisturiser combines pure retinol with peptides. Ceramides and hyaluronic acid support the formula with hydration, while botanical extracts help nourish the skin and keep it comfortable.

4. Strengthen the skin barrier to build resilience

Dryness is often a sign that the skin barrier has been compromised. Aesthetic doctor and dermatologist Dr Dev Patel explains that “the right ingredients, without harsh associated inactives, will rebalance the skin environment and thus provide a healthier and calmer skin barrier”. Barrier-supporting skincare can help fortify the skin so it can better resist environmental stressors while holding onto essential moisture.

Rhode Skincare Barrier Restore Cream

Rich in antioxidants and peptides, this formula is designed to soothe, hydrate and support the skin barrier. Shea butter nourishes the skin, while the texture stays rich yet lightweight and comfortable.

Dr Althea 147 Barrier Cream

Created to nourish and support the skin barrier for softer, healthier skin, this cream uses hyaluronic acid and paeonia flower extract to deeply hydrate.

5. Keep your glow with vitamin C

Healthy-looking skin is still achievable in winter. Vitamin C is one of the season’s most underrated skincare ingredients. Its antioxidant benefits help protect skin from environmental stress while supporting collagen production so the skin can hold on to moisture.

Dr Zamani agrees, saying antioxidant ingredients are essential all year round. “Treatments with vitamin C and other antioxidant ingredients will help diminish the appearance of pigmentation and promote collagen production.”

Allies of Skin Vitamin C 20% & Citrus Cells Advanced Firm + Glow Serum

This high-strength vitamin C serum is packed with antioxidants that work deep within the skin to help defend against environmental aggressors. The key ingredient also supports the skin barrier and encourages cell turnover, leaving the complexion softer and more radiant.

Olay Vitamin C Anti-Dark Spot SPF30 Day Cream

Even when the days are darker, SPF should not be skipped in winter. This brightening moisturiser contains vitamin C and offers SPF 30 protection alongside your usual sunscreen. A citrus scent also gives an uplifting boost after application.