Winter Skin Survival Guide: Top Tips for Sensitive Skin

Winter Skin Survival Guide - Top Tips for Sensitive Skin

This time of year, a lot of our patients are complaining of dryness, irritation and sensitivity due to weather changes. Here are my top winter skin tips for sensitive skin, including my personal dermatologist-approved routine and ingredients to keep your skin calm, hydrated, and comfortable.

1. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser for Sensitive Skin

Winter is not the time for foaming or exfoliating cleansers. Choose:

• Cream or milk hydrating cleansers

• Fragrance-free formulas

• pH-balanced options

Look for key ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to help maintain moisture while cleansing.

2. Moisturize More—and Earlier

Sensitive skin thrives on consistent moisture. In winter, apply a thicker cream right after cleansing to trap hydration.

Great ingredients for sensitive winter skin:

• Ceramides

• Squalane

• Colloidal oatmeal

• Shea butter

• Niacinamide (soothes redness and inflammation)

Avoid moisturizers with perfume or essential oils, which can trigger irritation.

3. Layer Your Skincare Like Your Clothing

For sensitive skin, layering helps boost protection:

1. Hydrating serum (hyaluronic acid)

2. Barrier-repair cream

3. Mineral sunscreen during the day

Nighttime is the perfect opportunity for rich, repairing formulas.

4. Avoid Over-Exfoliating

Exfoliation becomes a common culprit in winter irritation. Limit exfoliants to once weekly—or skip entirely if your skin is reactive.

If exfoliating, choose:

• Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) for gentle exfoliation

• Lactic acid (gentler than glycolic)

Common winter skincare mistakes are using scrubs, microbeads, or strong acids if your skin is easily inflamed.

5. Use a Humidifier

Indoor heating pulls moisture out of your skin. A humidifier adds hydration back into the air, making a visible difference in:

• Dry patches

• Flaking

• Chapped lips

• Eczema flare-ups

Aim for 40–50% indoor humidity.

6. Protect Your Skin from the Elements

Cold wind and dry air quickly damage the skin barrier. Protect your skin with:

• A scarf or face covering on windy days

• A barrier cream containing petrolatum or dimethicone

• SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen (yes—even in winter to prevent winter sun damage!)

7. Choose the Right Winter Makeup

If you have sensitive skin, here is my suggested winter beauty routine:

• Use cream or liquid formulas instead of powders

• Avoid alcohol-based primers

• Choose “non-comedogenic” and “fragrance-free” makeup

• Clean brushes weekly to avoid irritation

8. Know When to See a Dermatologist

If your skin becomes:

• Persistently red

• Burning or stinging

• Cracked or painful

• Covered in patches or bumps

…you may be dealing with eczema, rosacea, allergic dermatitis, or another sensitive skin condition. Personalized care can help calm flare-ups and rebuild your barrier safely.

If you struggle with sensitive skin or winter flare-ups, our dermatology team is here to help with personalized treatments and product recommendations tailored to your skin type. Book an appointment with us at Zand Dermatology for eczema or rosacea treatment in Mill Valley, Marin County, and greater San Francisco Bay Area.