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Writer's pictureTeri Kotantoulas
Jan 266 min read

Defying Dryness: Winter Skin Care Secrets Unveiled



Woman by the Sea
Coastal Winter Skin Care

Defying Dryness: Winter Skin Care Secrets Unveiled

Winter in our coastal region isn't your typical wonderland of snow and ice, but it does bring its own unique skin care adventure! As the air gets crisper and the ocean breeze whispers (not to mention the occasional howling of Santana winds), our skin whispers back, often with a cry for hydration. In this blog post, we're going to dive into the world of winter skin care - coastal style. Think of it as your personal guide to keeping your skin vibrant and lively, even when the temperatures drop. So ... grab your favorite moisturizer and let's get ready to tackle winter skin care with a mix of expert advice and a splash of personal anecdotes!


Understanding Winter Skin

Winter brings its own charm and challenges, and for our skin it's often a time of need. As a seasoned Esthetician, I've seen firsthand how the crisp, cooler air can leave our skin feeling less than happy. Dryness, irritation and a general sense of discomfort can be all too common. Let's take a look at what makes winter, even in our milder climate, a unique time for our skin.


  1. The Coastal Winter Skin Phenomenon. We might not be shivering in snow, but our skin still feels the seasonal shift. Cooler air and less humidity mean our skin loses moisture more easily. Our skin's natural moisture barrier is often the first casualty, leading to dryness, dullness, sensitivity, and irritation.

  2. Why Your Skin Care Routine Needs a Winter Edit. Just like swapping sandals for boots, your skin care routine needs a seasonal switch too, and upgrading your moisturizer is key. Look for a richer, more emollient cream than you'd use in summer. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid are essential; it acts like a sponge, holding water in the skin for lasting hydration. Ceramides are another hero, working to reinforce the skin's barrier and prevent moisture loss. Don't forget about the often neglected areas like hands, feet, and lips - they need extra love during winter too. Apply your moisturizer right after showering to lock in maximum moisture. And remember, even oily skin needs hydration, so opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas to keep pores clear.


Essential Hydration Techniques

Hydration is the hero of our winter skin story. This section is all about quenching your skin's thirst with some savvy hydration techniques tailored for our coastal winter.


  1. Layering Like a Pro. Layer hydrating, nourishing serums under a heavier moisturizer to lock in nutrients and plump the skin.

  2. Choosing Your Winter Skin Allies. Swap out harsh, drying cleansers for gentle, hydrating ones. Look for products with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera or glycerin that cleanse without stripping natural oils.

  3. Serums: The Secret Weapon. Serums are power-packed with different nutrients that absorb deeper in the skin, making them extra important this time of year. Look for serums with hyaluronic acid, macadamia, avocado and grape seed oils, omega EFA’s and more, that penetrate deep into the layers of the skin, delivering maximum hydration. 

  4. Humidify Your Habitat. The dry indoor air of winter, often made worse by heating systems, can be a key factor in skin dehydration. Using a humidifier in your home or office can reintroduce moisture into the air; maintaining a healthier level of humidity, which in turn helps skin retain its natural moisture, is very beneficial. It's particularly effective in your bedroom while you sleep, as it provides an extended period for your skin to remain hydrated.


Nutrition and Hydration From Within

Now let's chat about fueling your skin's hydration from the inside out. It's not just what you apply on your skin ... what you eat and drink plays a huge role too.


  1. Spring Your Way to Supple Skin. Yes, we hear it over and over ... drink your water! Drinking plenty of clean, pure water is essential for maintaining hydration in your body. Also consider drinking herbal teas, which can not only be hydrating but also provide antioxidants. Limiting caffeine and alcohol, which can be dehydrating, is also important. Remember, a well-hydrated body reflects in the skin, giving it a plump, dewy appearance even in the driest of winters.

  2. Vitamins and Minerals for Winter Skin. If you aren't already taking an Omega 3 supplement, consider adding one to your diet. Omega-3 supplements are beneficial for skin health in several ways. They help maintain the skin's lipid barrier, essential for retaining moisture and keeping the skin hydrated. This can be particularly important in preventing dryness and irritation.

  3. Winter Skin Superfoods. Nourish your skin from within by incorporating some of the following foods: spinach, avocados, tomatoes, cucumbers, cauliflower, oatmeal, olive oil, salmon, citrus fruits, and soups. These foods are known for their skin-protecting antioxidants and are packed with hydration,


Lifestyle Adjustments for Healthier Skin

Now let's look at tweaking our daily habits to boost skin health during winter. Small changes can make a big difference!


  1. Cool it Down. While a steaming hot shower can feel soothing, especially in winter, it can also strip your skin of essential natural oils leading to dryness and irritation. It's better to opt for warm water, which is far gentler on your skin's protective barrier. Also, limit your shower time to prevent further dehydration of the skin. Immediately after showering, while skin is still damp, apply a hydrating moisturizer to lock in moisture.

  2. Gentle is the Way. Reconsider your exfoliating routine. While exfoliating is important to remove dead skin cells, overdoing it can cause irritation. Opt for mild, chemical exfoliants like lactic acid, over scrubs. You'll get that glow you're looking for without overdoing it.

  3. Sun Protection, Yes in Winter Too! Winter skin care isn't just about what you put on your skin; it's also about protecting it from the environment. Even in milder climates, the winter sun can be damaging. Continue to use a broad spectrum sunscreen to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.

  4. Dress to Protect. Wind can strip moisture from your skin, so wearing protective clothing like scarves and gloves is helpful. Don't forget your lip balm too!


Professional Skin Care Treatments

Finally, let's explore the world of professional skin care treatments that can give your winter skin an extra boost.


  1. Facials For Winter Hydration. I have a plethora of products and specialized ingredients in my toolbox ... and there's nothing better than getting a customized, deeply hydrating facial to keep your skin on track.

  2. The Magic of Hydrating Masks. In between your visits for a professional treatment, use a hydrating sheet mask at home once a week to feed the skin the nutrients it's craving.

  3. Peels and Exfoliation - A Winter Perspective. While we need to use care with exfoliation in the winter, the cooler weather provides the perfect time to do a series of peel treatments. Whether you're combating sun damage, aging, or acne, together we can craft the perfect treatment plan to advance your results.

  4. Combining Home Care with Professional Treatments. Coming in for a professional skin treatment is like going to see your personal trainer. You've got to do your part at home to see results and maintain them. You're investing your time, effort and money to make a change in your skin ... and you're worth every penny!


As we wrap up this comprehensive guide to winter skin care, let's reflect on the key takeaways:


  • Understanding the Impact of Winter on Skin. Recognizing the unique challenges of winter in a coastal climate and adapting our skin care accordingly.

  • Hydration Techniques. Embracing the art of layering and selecting the right products for deep skin nourishment.

  • Internal Nourishment. Small changes in daily habits can make a big difference in skin health.

  • Professional Treatments. Incorporating professional skin care treatments for an extra boost of hydration and care.


Winter skin care, especially in a coastal region, is about balancing the right techniques, products, and lifestyle choices. By following these guidelines, you're well on your way to enjoying a season of healthy, radiant skin.


Have questions? Leave a comment or drop me a line. Be sure to take a peek below to see some of my favorite winter skin saviors!


Stay Beautiful,

Teri Kotantoulas

Licensed Esthetician

Face To Face Esthetics

Camarillo, CA



Teri's favorite products for hydrating winter skin:








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