Winter Skin Myths Debunked
I think we can all admit that winter brings unique challenges for our skin. A mix of the cold air, dry indoor heat, and fluctuating humidity levels, will take a toll on the skin. While there is so much incredible information from sources I love, there is also so much misinformation! Unfortunately, myths about winter skincare can lead to worsening dryness, irritation, or even exacerbating skin conditions. Let’s break down some of the most common winter skincare myths I hear, and then cover the actual facts.
Myth 1: You Don’t Need Sunscreen in the Winter
Fact: CRIMINAL! If anybody is telling you this, I want you to never listen to their skincare advice again (harsh, but true). Sun’s UV rays are still harmful in winter even if you can’t feel their warmth. Why? The sun emits two main types of UV radiation that impact your skin—UVA and UVB. UVB rays (think of them as what’s responsible for sunburns) are less intense in winter, but UVA rays—the ones that penetrate deeper into the skin and cause long-term damage (like premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer)—are present all year long. UVA rays can also pass through clouds and glass, meaning your skin is vulnerable all winter long.
I also think it’s worth noting that if you are somewhere that snows regularly, snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation, increasing exposure.
Tip: You can probably guess this tip, but use SPF every single day (I personally prefer a tinted sunscreen) and reapply every few hours!
Myth 2: More Moisturizer = Better
Fact: If you are a dry skin girlie (like myself), I think it’s hard to not become a victim of this one. When your skin gets drier in the winter months, it can be so tempting to think slathering on more and more moisturizer will be a quick fix.The truth is a thick layer doesn’t necessarily absorb better. Sometimes, depending on the formulation, it can kind of sit on the skin without providing further benefit.
Tip: Apply a thin layer of your favorite hydrating serum followed by an appropriate amount (think about a dime size) of your winter moisturizer (for some of us, I recommend having a specific moisturizer for Winter)!
Myth 3: Thicker Moisturizers Are Always Better for Winter
Fact: This one is kind of a tricky one, because there is definitely some truth to the idea that you want to swap to a richer moisturizer for Winter. I do think it’s important to emphasize that thickness doesn’t equal effectiveness! The formula’s ingredients matter more than its texture. Even lightweight moisturizers can deeply hydrate and moisturize if they’re packed with humectants and ceramides.
Tip: Focus on ingredient-rich products. For example, layer a hydrating serum under your moisturizer to tackle dryness without relying on heavy textures. Look for ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to repair and hydrate the barrier.
Here are some of my favorite moisturizers for colder months:
Myth 4: Hot Showers Hydrate Dry Skin
Fact: I think there was a faze where we all thought a hot shower was “just what our skin needs.” The reality is your skin’s natural oils form a protective barrier that retains moisture. Hot water compromises this barrier, leaving skin more vulnerable to dehydration. Prolonged hot showers can also exacerbate redness and sensitivity.
Tip: Pretty self explanatory, but keep the hot showers minimal. If you can stand it, aim for something a little more lukewarm.
Myth 5: Exfoliating in Winter is Harmful
Fact: I don’t even know where this one started. For some reason there was a whole theory on social media that any form of exfoliation was solely necessary in warmer months. It is absolutely still beneficial in winter because dead skin buildup creates a barrier that prevents moisturizers from working effectively. I, personally, include a gentle exfoliation, which for me typically looks like peel pads all winter long.
Tip: If you’re on the sensitive side, when using an “exfoliant” in the winter months opt for soothing formulas to help you obtain the glow without the irritation.
Myth 6: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer in Winter
Fact: There is a moisturizer for everyone (yes, even oily skin types)! While in summer, oily skin types can probably get away with just using a moisturizer at night (mainly if their sunscreen is hydrating enough to just use that in the morning), winter is a different story! Skipping moisturizer (especially in cold and dry months) can backfire, wreaking havoc on your skin.
Tip: If you are on the oily side, use a lightweight moisturizer. Look for ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Here are some of my favorite moisturizers for oily skin types:
Myth 7: You Don’t Need to Adjust Your Skincare Routine in Winter
Fact: If you read my blog on skincare mistakes, you would know how I feel about this one! Your skin’s needs may change with the seasons. Each season brings its own set of environmental factors like humidity, temperature, and wind, which can significantly affect your skin's needs! Not to mention, seasonal adjustments can help prevent skin problems before they start, rather than just reacting to them. It’s much harder to get on top of extremely dry, flaky skin AFTER the fact.
Tip: It doesn’t need to be giant changes, but I do highly suggest evaluating your skin at the start of each season. This can be on your own or with your derm provider! For example, as someone with dry skin, I tend to opt for a moisturizer that is a little more nutrient rich and incorporate slugging in my routine a couple times a week! I also like to prioritize a hydrating serum in the evening so my skin is hydrated AND moisturized.
There are few things I love more than debunking skin myths! I hope this gave you a little bit of clarity. I always say that if you hear a blanket statement like one of these, don’t be afraid to do your own research or reach out to your derm provider for clarity! Have any topics you’re not sure if they’re fact or fiction? Send them my way! I will do another round in a blog post :)
Hungry for more? Check out my Retinol Cheat Sheet & Comprehensive Skincare Guide in the Skinthusiast Shop!
**Disclaimer: This post does not constitute medical advice. Please speak to your Dermatology provider before adding any at home procedures or products into your routine!
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