Winter Skin Guide: Restore, Repair, Renew
As the seasons shift and the trees turn those rich, warm shades of amber and red, there’s something undeniably comforting about cosy nights in and crackling fires. But while autumn and winter bring beauty to the outdoors, they can also bring challenges for your skin, hair, and overall vitality.
Why your skin feels different in autumn and winter:
During colder months, humidity levels drop, and the skin naturally loses more moisture. You might notice your complexion feeling tighter, flakier, or even irritated. This is because dry indoor heating combined with cold outdoor air strips away your skin’s natural oils - disrupting the skin barrier that keeps it soft and supple.
At the same time, your skin may still be recovering from UV exposure and sun damage accumulated over the summer. This makes post-summer skin repair essential to restore hydration, elasticity, and glow. And yes, you should still wear SPF in autumn and winter! UV rays are present year-round and can continue to break down collagen, accelerating signs of ageing.
If you’re in perimenopause or menopause, these seasonal shifts can feel even more intense. Hormonal changes naturally reduce sebum production and weaken the skin barrier, making dryness, sensitivity, and dullness more common during this stage of life.
How to support your skin, hair & immunity this season:
1. Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise!
Switch to a richer moisturiser packed with ceramides, squalane, and natural oils to lock in hydration. Layer with a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid or niacinamide to draw moisture deeper into the skin.
For a natural boost, include skin-loving fats in your diet - like our Ancient Roots extra virgin olive oil, delicious Kanuka honey, and our collagen-rich, Natures Gift bone broth - to help nourish your skin from within. These staples support elasticity and barrier repair for a radiant glow even in the depths of winter.
2. Hydrate From the Inside Out
It sounds simple, but staying hydrated is crucial for your skin’s health. Water helps transport nutrients, regulate temperature, and maintain that dewy, plump appearance. Herbal teas with antioxidants and adaptogens (like Holy Basil or Ashwagandha) can also help hydrate and calm the skin while supporting overall immunity and resilience.
3. Gentle Exfoliation
Cold weather doesn’t mean skipping exfoliation. A gentle exfoliant helps remove dead cells and encourages new, healthy skin turnover. Look for mild AHAs (like Lactic Acid) or BHAs (like Salicylic Acid) to refine texture and brighten dull, post-summer skin.
4. Layer Your Skincare Like Your Clothes
Layering isn’t just for jumpers! Start with a hydrating toner or essence, follow with a serum, and finish with your moisturiser and SPF. This layering technique helps trap moisture and provides the protection your skin needs against environmental stressors.
The bottom line: your skin needs extra love in winter.
Seasonal transitions can feel harsh, but with a little extra care, your skin can stay glowing, hydrated, and resilient all winter long. Focus on moisture, nourishment, and repair, both inside and out.
And remember - your skin is a reflection of your overall well-being. Supporting your hormonal balance, immunity, and hydration will naturally bring back that healthy, luminous glow - no matter the season.
A Blog Written by Skin and Beauty Expert: Chloe Battimelli