Your winter skin essentials

Winter can be tough on our skin. The cold, dry air outside, combined with the dry heat indoors, can lead to chapped lips, itchy skin, and irritated patches. As we bundle up in layers to stay warm, our skin often gets neglected. But with a little extra care and attention, you can keep your family’s skin feeling soft, hydrated, and protected all season long.

Here’s your ultimate guide to winter skincare for the whole family, from babies to adults, including tips and tricks for soothing dry skin, preventing irritation, and keeping everyone’s skin healthy throughout the colder months.

1. Hydrate from the Inside Out

One of the easiest yet most effective ways to care for your skin during the winter months is to stay hydrated. It’s easy to forget to drink enough water when the weather is cold, but your skin still needs moisture, even if you’re not sweating as much. Drinking plenty of water helps your skin maintain its elasticity and softness.

For kids and adults alike, herbal teas can be a great way to stay hydrated while also enjoying a warm beverage. Consider sipping on chamomile, peppermint, or ginger tea to not only hydrate but also soothe and warm up on chilly days.

2. Use a Gentle, Moisturizing Cleanser

During winter, it’s important to be gentle with your skin. Hot showers may feel great, but they can strip your skin of essential oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Choose a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t compromise your skin’s natural moisture balance. Avoid harsh soaps or cleansers with alcohol, which can dry out the skin even more.

For babies and kids, look for fragrance-free, mild formulations that are designed for sensitive skin. These are less likely to cause irritation or dryness. For adults, opt for creamy, hydrating cleansers or oil-based cleansers that are perfect for winter skincare routines.

3. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

Moisturizing is the cornerstone of winter skincare. Cold air and indoor heating systems suck moisture out of the skin, so it’s essential to lock in hydration with a good moisturizer.

• For babies and young children, use a rich, gentle body lotion or cream designed for sensitive skin. Many baby lotions are formulated with ingredients like shea butter, almond oil, or calendula, which are great for soothing dry skin.
• For older children, look for non-greasy lotions that hydrate without leaving a sticky residue. You can also use a thick, emollient cream if their skin is especially dry.
• For adults, opt for a heavier moisturizer or even a body butter to help seal in moisture. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are fantastic for retaining hydration and repairing the skin barrier.

Make moisturizing a family habit! Apply lotion immediately after bathing, while skin is still damp, to help lock in moisture and prevent dryness.

4. Don’t Forget About Your Hands

Our hands often bear the brunt of winter’s cold and dry air. Frequent handwashing, cold temperatures, and exposure to harsh elements can lead to cracked, chapped skin.

• For babies and young kids, keep a gentle, moisturizing hand cream in your diaper bag or backpack. Rub it in after handwashing to prevent their delicate skin from getting dry and irritated.
• For older kids and adults, keep a rich hand cream or healing ointment nearby, especially if you live in a particularly cold or windy area. Look for formulas that include healing ingredients like aloe, shea butter, or lanolin. Apply multiple times a day—especially after washing hands—to keep skin soft and protected.

5. Protect Lips with Lip Balm

Chapped lips are a common winter woe, and they affect everyone, from babies to adults. The lips don’t have oil glands, so they can dry out quickly in cold, windy weather. Keep a moisturizing lip balm handy for everyone in the family.

For babies, use an unscented, hypoallergenic lip balm. For kids, let them choose a lip balm that’s fun but still effective (look for options with natural ingredients like beeswax or coconut oil). For adults, choose a thicker, more emollient balm with ingredients like shea butter or vitamin E to keep lips soft and smooth.

6. Protect Skin with Sunscreen (Yes, Even in Winter)

While many people associate sunscreen with sunny summer days, it’s just as important to wear it during the winter, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. The sun’s rays can still damage your skin in winter, particularly if you’re engaging in winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, or hiking. Snow can reflect UV rays, intensifying exposure and increasing the risk of sunburn.

For babies and young children, use a sunscreen that’s designed for sensitive skin, and choose a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher. For older kids and adults, make sure to apply sunscreen to exposed skin (even on cloudy days) when you’re outside for more than 15 minutes. Opt for a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection.

7. Layer Up for Outdoor Activities

If your family enjoys outdoor winter sports or just spending time outside, it’s essential to layer up to protect your skin from the cold. Bundle up in cozy, moisture-wicking clothes to help keep skin warm and dry. Pay special attention to sensitive areas like the face, ears, and hands, which are more vulnerable to frostbite.

Consider using a protective face balm for babies and kids, especially if they’re spending time in extremely cold weather. You can even use a zinc-based sunscreen or barrier cream on exposed skin to help protect from windburn.

8. Use a Humidifier Indoors

Indoor heating can dry out the air and strip moisture from your skin. Consider using a humidifier in the rooms where your family spends the most time, especially at night. Adding moisture to the air can help keep skin from becoming overly dry or irritated, helping your moisturizer work more effectively.

A humidifier is especially helpful in children’s bedrooms, as it can improve overall comfort and prevent dry, itchy skin. Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to avoid mold buildup.

9. Don’t Forget About Eczema and Sensitive Skin

Winter can exacerbate skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis, causing flare-ups due to the dryness and cold weather. If anyone in your family suffers from these conditions, make sure to use products that are specifically formulated for sensitive or compromised skin.

For eczema, look for fragrance-free creams that contain colloidal oatmeal or ceramides. If flare-ups occur, consult with a pediatrician or dermatologist for appropriate treatments, which may include prescription creams or other solutions. Keeping skin hydrated and protected is essential for managing eczema during the colder months.

10. Keep Skin Soft with Gentle Exfoliation

While moisturizing is key, exfoliating once a week (for kids over 3 years old and adults) can help slough off dead skin cells and make moisturizers more effective. Choose a gentle exfoliant—like a sugar scrub or a mild exfoliating lotion—that won’t irritate sensitive skin.

For babies, skip exfoliating and just focus on gentle, moisturizing care. For kids, a mild exfoliating scrub can be used on their hands or legs (avoiding the face). For adults, regular exfoliation can help reduce dry patches and improve the overall appearance of the skin.

Final Thoughts: Winter Skin Care Made Simple

Winter doesn’t have to mean dry, irritated skin for your family. With the right products and habits, you can keep everyone’s skin soft, hydrated, and healthy. From moisturizing daily to protecting from the elements, these simple winter skincare tips will help your family stay comfortable all season long. Remember, it’s all about consistency. By setting up a moisturizing routine, keeping skin hydrated from the inside out, and protecting against harsh winter conditions, your family can enjoy the season without the discomfort of dry, cracked skin. Stay cozy, and take care of your skin—it deserves the extra TLC!