Why does my skin get so dry in winter — and how can I prevent it?

As the weather turns colder, many people notice their skin becoming dry, tight, or more sensitive than usual.

It’s one of the most common seasonal changes I see as a dermatologist, with skin that felt balanced in summer suddenly becoming flaky, irritated, or uncomfortable, even when your routine hasn’t changed. This can catch people off guard, especially when products that usually work no longer seem as effective.

The reason lies not just in the cold itself, but in how winter conditions affect the skin’s ability to retain moisture.

Why does skin become dry in winter?

Winter affects the skin in several ways.

Cold air, wind, and lower humidity all reduce the amount of moisture in the environment. At the same time, the skin produces fewer natural oils, which normally help maintain its protective barrier.

This combination leads to increased water loss from the skin, making it more prone to dryness, flaking, and irritation.

Indoor heating can make this worse by further reducing humidity, which is why skin often feels dry both outdoors and inside.

Should I change my shower routine in winter?

Yes, and this is one of the most important adjustments.

Hot showers can feel comforting in cold weather, but they strip the skin of its natural oils and make dryness worse.

In practice, it is better to:

• keep showers short, ideally under 10 minutes
• use warm or lukewarm water rather than hot water

These small changes help protect the skin barrier and reduce moisture loss.

How often should I moisturise in winter?

More often than you might in warmer months.

Moisturising helps restore the skin barrier and reduce water loss. In winter, this becomes particularly important because the skin is less able to retain moisture on its own.

For best results:

• apply moisturiser straight after showering, when the skin is still slightly damp
• reapply throughout the day, especially if your skin feels dry or tight

In practice, richer moisturisers are often more effective in winter, as they provide a stronger protective layer.

Do I still need sunscreen in winter?

Yes.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is present all year round, even on cloudy days. This means that sun protection remains important for preventing premature skin ageing and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 to 30 is usually sufficient for daily use. Higher protection may be needed if you spend longer periods outdoors.

How can I protect areas that become particularly dry?

Certain areas of the body are more vulnerable in winter, particularly the hands, lips, and feet.

Hands are exposed to cold air and frequent washing, which can lead to dryness and cracking. Wearing gloves outdoors and applying hand cream regularly can help maintain the skin barrier.

Lips are sensitive to wind and low humidity, which can cause soreness and chapping. Using a gentle lip balm consistently can help prevent this.

Feet, especially the heels, may become dry or cracked. Regular moisturising and gentle removal of thickened skin can improve comfort.

Can winter make existing skin conditions worse?

Yes.

Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea often flare during colder months due to dryness and increased sensitivity.

If you notice your symptoms worsening, or if your usual treatments are no longer working, it is worth seeking medical advice. Adjusting your treatment plan can often help bring symptoms back under control.

When should I speak to a doctor?

You should seek medical advice if:

• your skin becomes severely dry, cracked, or painful
• you develop signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or oozing
• an existing skin condition is worsening
• your symptoms are not improving despite regular moisturising

Dry skin in winter is very common, but it is not something you have to simply put up with.

Making a few targeted changes to how you cleanse, moisturise, and protect your skin can make a noticeable difference. If your skin is not responding as expected, it is always worth getting it checked.

About the author

Dr Anjali Mahto is a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and cosmetic skin expert, specialising in acne, rosacea, and advanced non-surgical treatments. She is the bestselling author of The Skincare Bible and is known for combining evidence-based dermatology with a holistic, patient-focused approach to skin health.