As the cold weather settles in for the winter, it tends to bring plenty of dry air with it. And this powerful one-two punch can wreak havoc on your skin. On particularly frigid days, it can feel like your skin is devoid of moisture, and every bit of clothing you wear can feel like sandpaper.
So as the mercury drops, your skincare routine may be in need of a change. Light summer-weight moisturizers and lotions can’t possibly put up a good defense against harsh winter weather. Ideally, for dry, cracked winter skin, you should opt for thicker creams and ointments. And honestly, the thicker and greasier, the better.
One of my lifelong favorites, for example, is Vaseline. Yes, plain old Vaseline, and I tend to buy the tubful and place it strategically around the house. Anyone who knows me knows that I use it for everything from paper cuts to cracked skin. So, if you’re looking for an inexpensive but powerful solution to dry winter skin, this is it.
Of course, consistency can be pretty subjective, and some people may not like Vaseline’s thick, goopy feel. The good news is there are plenty of alternatives. Ahead, you’ll find a list of some of the best skincare products for dry winter skin.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Made with a blend of hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide, CeraVe works with patented time-release technology to hydrate parched skin for up to 24 hours. Even better, it restores your skin’s protective barrier to prevent moisture loss. This cream is hypoallergenic and safe for all skin types.
Tree Hut 24 Hour Intense Hydrating Shea Body Butter Almond & Honey
This rich cream is a blend of 100% shea butter, safflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, and honey, all of which work in concert to deeply hydrate dry, winter skin. And as a bonus, the sweet almond oil makes your skin smell divine.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Formulated for dry, cracked skin, Aquaphor can essentially be used from head to toe; use it for everything from dry lips to cracked heels. This bargain ointment is a rich emollient, so it not only adds moisture where you need it most, but it also locks that moisture in to keep your skin soft and supple.
Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex
Not only does Estee Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex deliver 72-hour hydration (courtesy of some hyaluronic acid), but it also strengthens your skin’s barrier to prevent any further moisture loss.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration
First Aid Beauty’s Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration is another option for head-to-toe hydration (and at a $54 price point, you’ll probably be happy to know that). While this cream is quite rich, it has a lightweight, whipped texture that absorbs quickly with no greasy after-feel. This moisturizer is formulated with colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, and shea butter, all of which offer deep hydration while protecting your skin’s barrier. FAB’s ultra repair cream is also made with clean ingredients, there are no artificial fragrances, and it’s even safe for sensitive skin.
