As soon as the heated indoor air and the cold wind arrive, my skin changes all over again every year. It feels tight, looks dull, and suddenly every foundation clings to little dry patches. If this sounds familiar: you are not alone – and with the right care, your skin becomes the most beautiful make-up base you could wish for.
Why skin dries out in winter
Cold air outside and dry heated air inside constantly draw moisture from the skin. At the same time, it produces less protective oil in low temperatures. The result is a weakened skin barrier that holds moisture less well. That is exactly why make-up often looks drier and more uneven in winter than in summer.
Care matters more than any product
A beautiful base is never created in the make-up, but always in the care beforehand. This routine has proven itself for me:
- •Gentle cleansing: skip harsh, foaming cleansers and choose a mild, creamy product that does not dry the skin further.
- •Moisture in layers: first apply a hyaluronic acid serum to slightly damp skin, where it binds moisture where it is needed.
- •Rich cream: follow with a nourishing cream, a little richer than usual in winter.
- •Facial oil to finish: a few drops of oil seal in the care and give the skin a healthy glow.
My extra tip: the gentle exfoliation
Dry skin tends to form little flakes that foundation settles into. A gentle enzyme or lactic acid exfoliant once or twice a week removes them without irritating the skin.
The transition from care to make-up
The most common mistake? Starting make-up too quickly. Give your skincare a few minutes to truly sink in.
- •Hydrating primer: a hydrating primer rather than a mattifying one evens out the skin.
- •Less product, more warmth: apply foundation with your fingers or a damp sponge.
- •Cream instead of powder: reach for creamy blushes and highlighters. Powder emphasises dry patches.
If it does turn dry
If your make-up starts to feel dry during the day, a fine facial spray helps. Just mist from a little distance – it refreshes the look and instantly returns moisture.
Dry winter skin is no reason to despair. With a little more moisture and patience, it becomes a velvety-smooth canvas for any look.
