Cold air, indoor heating and low humidity can strip your skin’s moisture. Here are five smart switches to keep your complexion calm, comfortable and glowy all winter.
1) Switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser
Foamy formulas can feel tight in winter. Choose creamy or low-pH cleansers that respect the barrier and rinse clean without squeakiness.
Look for: centella, panthenol, ceramides.
Shop picks: Anua Heartleaf Foam / SKIN1004 Centella Ampoule Foam.
2) Layer a hydrating toner or essence
Apply on slightly damp skin to pull in moisture and cushion the next steps. A couple of layers beat one heavy cream.
Look for: hyaluronic acid, beta-glucan, heartleaf.
Shop picks: Torriden DIVE-IN Toner / Mixsoon Bean Essence.
3) Strengthen the barrier with a targeted serum
Support your skin’s defenses to reduce redness and tightness as temperatures drop.
Look for: niacinamide, peptides, ceramides, panthenol.
Shop picks: Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep / Mary & May Niacinamide + Panthenol.
4) Upgrade to a richer moisturizer
Seal hydration with textures that cushion the skin without heaviness.
Look for: squalane, shea butter, multi-weight HA.
Shop picks: TIRTIR Ceramic Cream / COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream.
5) Don’t skip SPF (yes, even in winter)
UV is present year-round and reflected by clouds and bright surfaces. Daily SPF keeps tone even and lines at bay.
Shop picks: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+ / Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel.
Quick recap ✅
- Gentle cleanser
- Hydrating toner/essence
- Barrier-support serum
- Nourishing moisturizer
- Daily SPF
Tip: Pair hydration (toner/essence) + occlusion (cream) to keep water in the skin while heaters are on.
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