Your sensitive shield against the cold

Why does the skin need special care in winter?

The combination of cold outdoor air and dry indoor heating air continuously removes moisture from the skin. This makes it rough, brittle and more prone to imperfections. The constant switch between icy cold and warm rooms stresses the skin barrier and weakens its protective function.

At temperatures below 8 °C the sebaceous glands almost completely reduce their activity. The natural protective lipid film that prevents skin from drying out becomes thinner and moisture evaporates more quickly, so the skin effectively dries out. In addition, blood vessels constrict in the cold to preserve internal body heat. As a result, the skin receives less circulation and fewer nutrients.

All these factors together mean the skin can be particularly sensitive, dry and irritated in winter. It therefore needs an extra portion of care that provides moisture, strengthens the skin barrier and supports the natural protective film so it stays healthy and radiant during the cold season.

Winter skin care: oils or moisture?

In winter the skin needs both lipids and moisture, but in the right form. Oils help protect the skin from the cold and strengthen the natural lipid film, which is often weakened in winter. Moisture is equally important because dry heating air and cold cause the skin to lose water quickly.

It is important to avoid skincare products with a high water content, as surface water can freeze and damage the skin. Ideal are creams with humectant ingredients like hyaluronic acid and protective fats such as lipids or ceramides.

Which active ingredients help your skin in winter?

In winter your skin needs special support — the right active ingredients make the difference. They not only help retain moisture in the skin but also strengthen its protective barrier against cold and dry air.

Lipids are particularly important because they are a central component of the skin barrier. They help keep the skin resilient and protect it from drying out. Hyaluronic acid acts like a moisture magnet: it binds water in the skin and plumps it from within. Glycerin is also one of the natural moisturizing factors that help prevent the skin from drying out.

Another secret tip is squalane, which mimics the skin's natural protective film and provides suppleness without feeling heavy. And last but not least, shea butter helps soothe the skin, supply moisture and restore balance when it is irritated and dry in winter.

What does the right winter skincare routine look like?

In winter the skin needs a thoughtful routine that cleanses gently, protects and supplies plenty of moisture — morning and evening. Cold, dry heating air and temperature fluctuations take their toll. With the right steps, the skin can remain healthy and radiant even during the cold season.

Mornings are best started with a gentle cleansing that does not dry out the skin, for example with a mild cleansing oil or gel. A moisturising facial toner then soothes the skin and prepares it for the next steps. A serum with hyaluronic acid or ceramides provides intense moisture and strengthens the skin barrier. For the final step, a rich cream containing lipids and a few drops of oil is recommended to seal the skin's protective film. Also, sunscreen remains important in winter to protect the skin from premature ageing due to UV exposure.

Evenings follow the same motto: mild and nourishing. Thorough cleansing of the face from dirt, make-up and environmental influences is essential. A gentle peeling once or twice a week removes dead skin cells and makes the skin more receptive to care products. Afterwards, treat the skin again with plenty of moisture and lipids, for example with a hyaluronic serum, a rich night cream and a nourishing oil. This allows the skin to regenerate optimally overnight and face the next winter day strengthened.

The body also benefits from targeted winter care. After showering with lukewarm water, a body lotion with oil absorbs particularly well on still-damp skin and leaves no greasy film. To nourish the skin optimally, mix oils such as jojoba, almond or argan oil with a little water in your hands and apply. Cold showers at the end stimulate circulation and strengthen the immune system. In extreme cold and for outdoor activities, using water-free occlusive creams with SPF 50+ is also recommended to protect the skin from frost and UV radiation.

Do peels harm dry skin in winter?

Peels are a real treat for the skin in winter — but only if used correctly. They gently remove dead skin cells, make the complexion look fresher and ensure that care products can be absorbed better. Dry winter skin benefits in particular because it becomes smoother and more even.

However, too aggressive peels can do more harm than good on dry or sensitive skin. If the skin barrier is attacked too strongly, this can lead to irritation, redness or even more dryness. Therefore, gentle variants that only remove the top skin layer are the better choice.

Facial care in winter – which home remedies complement your routine?

In addition to pharmacy products, home remedies can also help support the skin. They provide valuable ingredients that strengthen, soothe and nourish the skin barrier.

Olive and coconut oil are particularly rich in lipids. They feed dry skin patches and split ends with fats that keep the skin soft and supple. Combined with egg yolk, they form a nourishing mask for hands, face or hair that supplies the epidermis with extra proteins. Quark (a fresh dairy product) also has a caring and cooling effect. Its lactic acid bacteria support the skin microbiome while its high water content hydrates the skin.

Avocado has a similar effect. It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, protein and fiber. It strengthens the skin barrier and smooths rough spots. Honey not only provides moisture but also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties — ideal for cracked, irritated skin.

Less known but no less effective is carrot juice. It contains beta-carotene and vitamin A, which promote cell renewal and protect the skin from free radicals. Not to be forgotten is the cucumber, a classic high in water and vitamins that refreshes and soothes especially the delicate eye area.

These home remedies cannot replace medical care, but they can usefully complement your routine so that your skin remains healthy, cared-for and resilient in winter.

Winter skin care: how to keep your skin supple and healthy despite the cold

• Start winter care early. Don't wait until your skin is dry and irritated; prepare it already with the first cool days. Timely care strengthens the skin barrier and prevents moisture loss. This keeps your skin supple even as temperatures drop.
• Rely on moisture-binding ingredients. Ingredients such as urea, glycerin, lactate or amino acids help the skin retain moisture. These so-called natural moisturizing factors prevent the skin from becoming brittle in dry winter air. Look for these components in your cream to support your skin optimally.
• Use the night for regeneration. Night-time skin regeneration processes are in full swing and the skin absorbs care particularly well. A rich night treatment supplies everything it needs to recover. You will wake up with smoother, rested skin.
• Don't forget your hands. Hands are often exposed to the cold in winter and dry out quickly. Cracks and small wounds can develop, which are painful and susceptible to infection. Cream your hands regularly and wear gloves outdoors.
• Moisturise elbows and knees regularly. These areas are particularly prone to roughness and callus formation. With emollient lotions these spots remain soft and elastic. This prevents unsightly, scaly skin.
• Care for your lips regularly. Lips have no sebaceous glands and are directly exposed to the cold, which makes them especially vulnerable. In addition to a lip balm with a high fat content, you can gently massage your lips with a soft toothbrush and then apply a little honey. This stimulates circulation and makes lips soft and smooth.
• Avoid showers that are too hot. Very hot water can strip the skin of its natural fats and weaken the skin barrier. It is better to shower lukewarm and apply a care product immediately afterwards. This keeps the skin healthy and supple.
• Use gentle cleansing products. Harsh soaps and foaming products further dry out the skin. Instead, choose cleansing oils or milks that clean gently while caring for the skin. This keeps the skin barrier intact.
• Choose winter-appropriate make-up. In winter, creamy, lipid-rich foundations are suitable as they protect the skin and do not dry it out. Powders should be avoided as they remove additional moisture from the skin. This keeps your complexion looking fresh even in the cold.
• Remember the delicate eye area. The skin around the eyes is particularly thin and quickly reacts with dryness and fine lines. Use a specialised eye cream that provides moisture and strengthens the skin. This keeps your look fresh and alert.
• Drink enough water. Even if you feel less thirsty in winter, the body still loses fluids. Two litres of water or unsweetened tea per day help hydrate the skin from within. This keeps it plump and healthy.
• Pay attention to indoor climate. Dry heating air removes additional moisture from the skin. Aim for a humidity level of around 50-60 % by hanging damp towels or using a humidifier. This prevents your skin from drying out.
• Get fresh air and enough sleep. Oxygen-rich air and sufficient sleep promote skin regeneration. Bundled up well, a walk benefits both skin and wellbeing. At least eight hours of sleep give your skin time to recover.
• Don't forget UV protection. Even in winter UV radiation reaches the skin — especially reflected from snow. Use a cream with at least SPF 15 to protect your skin from damage and premature ageing.
• Eat nutrient-rich foods. Vitamins such as A, C and E and minerals like zinc and selenium are important for skin health. Eat plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and healthy fats to strengthen your skin from the inside. This keeps it resilient and radiant.
• Choose the right clothing. Synthetic fabrics can irritate the skin and further dry it out. Prefer soft, breathable materials such as cotton or merino wool, which regulate moisture and do not burden the skin. This keeps your skin healthy and increases overall comfort.

In winter the skin is exposed to particular stresses, but with tailored care much can be done for its health. Moisture, protective lipids and gentle handling are especially important to keep the barrier intact. This way, the skin remains resilient, soft and radiant even in frosty weather.