Sensitive Skin & Winter: How to Care for Your Skin

Sensitive skin can be described as skin that undergoes “stinging, burning and itching sensations”. It can be especially challenging to manage in the winter between harsh weather, dry air, and constant shifts in temperature, sensitive skin often feels more irritated, dry, or reactive. Understanding how to manage and protect your skin during this time is helpful to keeping it calm and healthy.

Sensitive skin can be characterized by skin reactions such as dermatitis, redness, or acne. In addition, symptoms may include a weakened skin barrier, leading to dryness and reduced ability to protect nerve endings. 

If you experience persistent discomfort or skin reactions, it’s always a good idea to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis.

Sensitive skin can be triggered or worsened by a combination of environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors. 

• Low temperatures: Cold weather can strip the skin of natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated.
• Humidity changes: Indoor heating and outdoor cold air create a constant cycle of dryness.
• Wind: Wind exposure can damage the outer layer of your skin.
• Sun exposure: Even in winter, UV rays can aggravate sensitive skin.

Some skincare ingredients can also be irritating to the skin, such as alcohol. Sensitive skin can also be inherited. Common skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, or acne can increase your skin’s reactivity and make it more prone to irritation.

Learning how to be gentle with your skincare can be one of the best ways to care for sensitive skin. Here are some tips to care for sensitive skin.

1. Gentle Cleansing and Moisturizing

Use a mild cleanser, such as Clean Queen Glycolic Cleanser to remove impurities without stripping your skin. Follow up with a rich, hydrating moisturizer, such as Antidote Moisturizer to lock in moisture and strengthen your skin barrier.

2. Avoid Hot Water

While a hot shower might feel good on a cold day, it can strip your skin of natural oils and worsen dryness. Opt for lukewarm water instead when cleansing your face or showering.

3. Use Snake Serum 

Skincare products with soothing, barrier-repairing ingredients are a must for protecting sensitive skin in the winter. Consider using Snake Serum, which contains MossCellTec™ No. 1, which strengthens the skin’s barrier, protecting against pollution and harsh climates. In addition, Green Tea Extract fights UV damage, reduces irritation, redness, and swelling.

4. Patch Testing products 

Before trying out new skincare products, always patch-test on a small area of skin. This helps you identify any potential irritants without risking a full-blown reaction especially on the face. 

5. Wearing Sunscreen

I know, we say this every time, but sunscreen is your skin’s best friend. Even in winter, harmful UV rays can penetrate through clouds and reflect off snow. Opt for a gentle, hydrating sunscreen to keep your skin protected. Korean sunscreens are often a great choice, as they’re lightweight and sensitive-skin-friendly.

Caring for sensitive skin in the winter requires a gentle routine, and protection for your skin’s barrier. By understanding your skin’s triggers and implementing a solid skincare routine, you can keep your sensitive skin healthy and calm through the colder months.

Stay cozy, and give your skin the love it deserves this winter!