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Seasonal Tips

Winter Skincare: How to Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Cold weather can leave skin dry, tight and dull. Learn simple winter skincare steps and when to book a hydrating facial with Delia.

15 March 2026 · 4 min read

Winter Skincare Essentials

Winter weather can be harsh on your skin. The combination of cold outdoor air and heated indoor environments strips moisture from your skin, leaving it dry, tight, and sometimes even flaky.

The aim in winter is not to overload the skin with heavy products. It is to protect the barrier, reduce unnecessary irritation and keep hydration in the skin for longer.

Why Your Skin Suffers in Winter

  • Low humidity: Cold air holds less moisture, leaving skin parched
  • Indoor heating: Central heating reduces humidity levels further
  • Hot showers: While relaxing, hot water strips natural oils from your skin
  • Wind exposure: Cold winds damage the skin barrier
  • Lower water intake: Many people drink less water when the weather is cold
  • Over-exfoliation: Strong scrubs and acids can make winter dryness worse

Essential Winter Skincare Tips

  1. Switch to a richer moisturiser – Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and natural oils that lock in moisture
  2. Don't skip SPF – UV rays are still present in winter and reflect off snow
  3. Use a humidifier – Add moisture back to your indoor air
  4. Limit hot showers – Opt for lukewarm water instead
  5. Exfoliate gently – Remove dead skin cells without over-drying
  6. Hydrate from within – Drink plenty of water throughout the day

What to Avoid When Skin Feels Dry

When skin feels tight, it is tempting to exfoliate more because the surface looks flaky. That can backfire. If the skin barrier is already stressed, strong exfoliation may increase redness, sensitivity and dryness.

Avoid:

  • Harsh scrubs
  • Strong acids used too often
  • Very hot water
  • Fragranced products if your skin is reactive
  • Skipping moisturiser after cleansing

Instead, keep the routine simple for a few days: gentle cleanse, hydrating serum, moisturiser and SPF in the morning.

Professional Treatments for Winter

Book a hydrating facial or nanoinfusion treatment to give your skin an intensive moisture boost during the colder months. Delia serves clients throughout Slough, Windsor, Maidenhead, Ealing, Acton, Paddington, Bayswater, Lancaster Gate, Hyde Park, Edgware Road, Little Venice, Kensington, Chelsea, Fulham, Hammersmith, and Chiswick.

The Classic Facial is a good option for winter maintenance. It helps refresh the skin without pushing it too hard.

For deeper hydration and glow, nanoinfusion may be a better fit. It helps deliver active serums into the upper layers of the skin and is useful when the skin looks dull but you do not want downtime.

If your skin is rough or congested as well as dry, Delia may recommend a bespoke facial so the treatment can be adjusted during the appointment.

Signs Your Skin Needs Extra Winter Care

  • Tight feeling after cleansing
  • Visible flaking or dry patches
  • Increased sensitivity
  • Dull complexion
  • Fine lines appearing more prominent

Book a Winter Facial

A professional facial using Dermalogica products can make a significant difference. Delia will assess your skin's winter needs and recommend a customised treatment plan.

View treatments and book or contact Delia to ask which winter facial is best for your skin.