Dry Winter Skin: The Perfect Base for Your Make-up

As soon as the heating goes on and the cold wind starts, my skin changes. Every single year. It feels tight, looks dull, and suddenly every foundation sticks to little dry patches. Sound familiar? You're not alone. And with the right care, your skin turns back into the best make-up base you could ask for.

Why skin dries out in winter

Cold air outside and dry heating inside keep pulling moisture out of your skin. At the same time, your skin makes less of its own protective oil when it's cold. So your skin barrier gets weaker and can't hold on to moisture as well. That's why make-up often looks drier and patchier in winter than in summer.

Care matters more than any product

A beautiful base never starts with make-up. It starts with the care before. This routine works for me:

• •Gentle cleansing: skip harsh foaming cleansers. Go for something mild and creamy that doesn't dry your skin out even more.
• •Moisture in layers: first a hyaluronic acid serum on slightly damp skin. It holds the moisture where you need it.
• •Rich cream: then a nourishing cream. In winter, go a bit richer than usual.
• •Facial oil to finish: a few drops of oil seal it all in and give your skin a healthy glow.

My extra tip: the gentle exfoliation

Dry skin gets little flakes, and foundation sticks to them. A gentle enzyme or lactic acid exfoliant once or twice a week takes them off without irritating your skin.

The transition from care to make-up

The mistake I see most? Starting your make-up too soon. Give your skincare a few minutes to really sink in.

• •Hydrating primer: a hydrating one, not a mattifying one. It evens out your skin.
• •Less product, more warmth: put your foundation on with your fingers or a damp sponge.
• •Cream instead of powder: go for creamy blushes and highlighters. Powder shows every dry patch.

If it does turn dry

Does your make-up feel dry during the day? A fine face mist helps. Spray it from a little distance. It freshens up your look and gives your skin moisture right away.

Dry winter skin is no reason to panic. With a bit more moisture and a bit of patience, it becomes a soft, smooth base for any look.