As refreshing as the UAE’s cooler winter months can be, our skin sometimes tells a different story. The mix of lower temperatures with dry indoor air often strips away moisture, leaving skin dry, flaky and uncomfortably tight.

That's where we come in. With the right routines and combination of lotions and serums, you can rehydrate your skin so it’s soft, smooth and supple again.

Why does winter lead to dryer skin

One of the main reasons skin becomes drier in winter is the drop in moisture levels in the air. Cold weather holds far less humidity than warmer temperatures, causing moisture to evaporate more easily from the skin. Unlike summer, when humidity is much higher, winter’s dry conditions strip away the skin’s natural moisture, weakening its protective barrier and making it more vulnerable to irritation and sensitivity.

Hacks to getting hydrated skin

One of the easiest ways to support dry skin is by adding a humidifier to rooms where you spend most of your time. By increasing moisture in the air, humidifiers can offer some relief from dryness and irritation. While the results are often subtle, they can make a noticeable difference during the drier months, particularly in desert climates.

Just as important is adjusting your skincare routine. Experts agree that hydration is not only about adding moisture but also about keeping it in. A winter skincare routine should focus on gentle cleansing, hydrating ingredients, barrier-supporting moisturisers and daily sun protection.

Cleansing:
Gentle cleansers maintain the skin's moisture barrier, preventing dryness caused by cold air and indoor heating. Top choices include creamy, hydrating, and oil-based formulas.

Hydration:
Apply a hydrating serum or essence immediately after cleansing. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin help draw moisture into the skin.

Moisturising:
Winter calls for richer creams that lock in hydration and support the skin barrier. Ceramides help repair the skin, while ingredients like shea butter, squalane and natural oils help to repair the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss. For those with dry and sensitive skin, fragrance-free formulas are often more recommended.

Sun protection:
Sunscreen is important to wear all year around, even during winter months. UV rays can penetrate clouds and continue to damage skin even during cooler months and damage the skin barrier, making it even harder for the skin to retain water. By applying sunscreen daily, it acts as a protective shield and prevents the skin to be stripped from moisture.

Night care:
Nighttime is ideal for nourishing and repair-focused products. Barrier-repair creams and gentle actives support skin recovery. Key steps include using a creamy cleanser, applying hyaluronic acid or peptide serums, using a rich, ceramide-based moisturizer, and sealing it all with a facial oil or overnight mask.