As winter sets in, especially across North India, the air becomes cold and dry. Many of us respond with long, hot baths and heavy layers of woollens, which can leave skin even drier. Tight, flaky, itchy skin and cracked lips become common. A few seasonal changes to your routine can help your skin stay comfortable until spring.
Why skin gets dry in winter
Cold air holds less moisture, and indoor heating dries the air further. Your skin's protective barrier loses water more quickly, leading to dryness and irritation. Hot water and harsh soaps strip away natural oils, making the problem worse. People with conditions such as eczema often notice flare-ups in winter.
Rethink your bath
It is tempting to stand under a hot shower on a cold morning, but hot water is one of the biggest causes of winter dryness.
- Use lukewarm water instead of very hot water.
- Keep baths short, around 5 to 10 minutes.
- Choose a mild, soap-free or moisturising cleanser rather than harsh, fragranced soaps.
- Pat skin dry gently with a soft towel; do not rub.
- Moisturise within a few minutes of bathing, while skin is still slightly damp.
Switch to richer moisturisers
The light gel you used in summer may not be enough now.
- For the face: Choose a cream with ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid or shea butter.
- For the body: Thick creams or ointments work better than thin lotions.
- Traditional options: Many families use coconut, almond or sesame oil for a pre-bath massage. This can be comforting, but follow with a moisturiser after bathing for best results.
- Focus on dry zones: Elbows, knees, shins, hands and heels need extra attention.
Do not forget sunscreen
Winter sun can still cause tanning and pigmentation, especially if you enjoy sitting out in the afternoon sunshine. Continue using a broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin. A creamier sunscreen can double up as extra moisture.
Be gentle with exfoliation
Flaky skin can tempt you to scrub, but over-exfoliating damages the skin barrier. Limit exfoliation to once a week or less, use gentle products and always moisturise afterwards.
Lip and hand care
- Apply lip balm often and use a thicker balm or petroleum jelly at night.
- Keep hand cream near the sink and reapply after every wash.
- Wear gloves outdoors on very cold days.
Watch your woollens
Wool can feel scratchy and irritate dry, sensitive skin. Wear a soft cotton layer underneath sweaters and shawls. Wash woollens with a mild detergent and rinse well.
Add moisture to the air
If you use a room heater, the air can become very dry. A humidifier helps, or you can place a bowl of water near the heater. Avoid sitting too close to heaters and bonfires, which dry out the skin and can cause burns.
Hydrate and eat well
We tend to drink less water in winter because we do not feel as thirsty. Keep sipping water, soups and herbal teas. Include healthy fats from nuts, seeds and a little ghee, along with seasonal vegetables and fruits such as carrots, oranges and amla, as part of a balanced diet.
A simple winter routine
- Morning: Gentle cleanser or plain water, hydrating serum if you like, rich moisturiser, sunscreen.
- Night: Gentle cleanser, richer cream, lip balm, hand and foot cream.
- Weekly: A hydrating face mask and a gentle foot care session.
When dryness becomes a problem
If your skin becomes red, cracked, very itchy, bleeds or develops rough patches that do not improve with moisturising, it may need medical treatment. Conditions like eczema or psoriasis can flare in winter and benefit from proper care.
Enjoy the season
Winter is a lovely time for warm meals, sunshine and cosy evenings. With lukewarm baths, richer moisturisers and a little extra attention, your skin can stay soft and comfortable all season long.
Note: This article offers general guidance only; if you have severe dryness, itching or a skin condition, please consult a dermatologist.
