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Practicing regular skincare maintenance can not only leave your face glowing but can be a significant confidence booster. However, when something like cold weather comes along, which can leave your skin feeling rough and cracked, it can be a whole mood shift. Suddenly, you have to face the world head-on with dry or flaky rather than soft, plump skin. It’s not awful, but it’s also not ideal.
Best Winter Skincare Products, Editor’s Picks
Note: These selections are based on certified dermatologist and esthetician reviews and audience testing across consistently recommended products
There are plenty of ways to reintroduce moisturizing products back into your traditional skincare routine during the cold season. Perhaps it’s switching out the lighter moisturizers for heavier products like the Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream, or starting from the beginning and switching out your cleanser for something creamy and nourishing like the Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Face Cleanser. Even introducing new serums like Haily Beiber’s Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid can help reduce dry and textured skin as temperatures drop and your skin craves more moisture.
From cleansers, moisturizers, exfoliators, and more, we researched the top-recommended products from dermatologists and medical estheticians to help fortify your winter skincare routine.
Best Winter Skincare Cleansers
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser
Contains thermal water as an antioxidant, ceramides for moister retention and skin barrier protection, and niacinamide for improving dull skin (fragrance-free)
During the dryer months of winter, it’s important to cleanse your face without stripping the skin of the natural oils needed to protect the surface from becoming too dry. The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser is much lighter than your traditional cleanser and will leave your face clean without over-drying.
Dermatologist Recommended: “This is a very gentle ceramide-filled cleanser that I really like for winter. It leaves my skin cleansed without feeling squeaky clean and dry.” —Dr. Joyce, Board-certified dermatologist based in Seattle, WA
Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Face Cleanser
Contains oat for soothing and retaining moisture (hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, alcohol-free, dye-free, phthalate-free, tested on sensitive skin and non-comedogenic)
Though foaming cleansers are great for really cleaning the skin, sometimes they can be a bit harsh, especially during the winter months. As an alternative, opt for something creamier, like the Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Face Cleanser, which purifies without stripping the skin of the natural oils it needs to stay moisturized.
Dermatologist Recommended: “This would be a great choice for a winter skincare routine. This gentle, non-foaming cleanser is milky and creamy to gently lift away dirt and impurities without stripping the skin barrier. It leaves your skin looking healthy and hydrated.” —Dr.Dray, Board-certified dermatologist based in Houston, TX
The Klog Double Action Exfoliating Cleanser
Contains willow bark for light exfoliation and licorice root for dark spot fading (vegan and cruelty-free. Also made without artificial fragrance and color, parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, alcohol, and silicones)
For makeup wearers or those who like to feel extra clean, it’s essential to find something with active ingredients that work to remove dirt and grime without stripping the skin. As recommended by Dr. Jenny Liu, The Klog Double Action Exfoliating Cleanser is the perfect fit for the winter, providing a deep clean that’s still gentle and non-irritating.
Dermatologist Recommended: “This is a creamy cleanser that contains a blend of lactic, glycolic, and salicylic acid. It’s not very aggressive, nor is it very irritating. Certainly, something if you like to have an active ingredient to help remove dead skin buildup, I recommend trying this in the winter.” —Dr. Jenny Liu, Board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor in Minneapolis, MD
Aveeno Restorative Skin Therapy Sulfate-Free Body Wash
Contains oat and aloe for soothing and retaining moisture (formulated without parabens, sulfates, fragrances, soaps, dyes)
Skincare doesn’t just stop at the face. During winter, your whole body can be affected by the dry season. During times like these, the Aveeno Restorative Skin Therapy Sulfate-Free Body Wash comes in handy for a gentle wash that nourishes and moisturizes the skin from head to toe.
Dermatologist Recommended: “This would definitely be a go-to recommendation for a winter body wash. I love this product. There are no harsh sulfates that would otherwise strip at the moisture barrier, and like all Aveeno products, it’s got the power of oats.” —Dr.Dray
e.l.f. Pure Skin Back to Basics Mini Kit
Contains allantoin for soothing and moisturizing the skin (Formulated without fragrance, non-comedogenic, cruelty-free, and vegan. All e.l.f. products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and leaping bunny certified)
If you’re looking for a holy trinity to get you through the winter with hydrated skin, the e.l.f. Pure Skin Back to Basics Mini Kit is great for those not only wanting to test the products, but the small sizes are perfect for those who might be traveling during the holidays. The kit comes with a clean and gentle cleanser, toner, and moisturizer to tackle dry skin on the go.
Dermatologist Recommended: “[The cleanser] is very creamy, gentle, fragrance-free, with oat milk and niacinamide, which is very soothing. [The mositerizer] is not very thick but very nourishing and absorbs pretty quickly.” —Dr. Jenny Liu
Best Winter Skincare Serums
Vichy Mineral 89 Face Serum
Contains thermal water as an antioxidant (non-comedogenic, allergy and sensitive skin tested)
If you’re looking for a hydrating serum in your winter skincare routine that goes beyond just moisturizing the skin, try the Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum, which is deeply rooted in science to support its lofty claims of hydration as well as protection against free radicals.
Dermatologist Recommended: “I love this because it’s hydrating, soothing, and great for all skin types. The ingredients in here, especially the volcanic water, are not only great for hydration but help to defend against environmental aggressors.” —Dr. Jenny Liu
Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid
Contains marula oil to help support and soften the skin barrier, and peptides to visibly plump and reduce the look of fine lines (cruelty-free, vegan, gluten-free and fragrance-free)
If you suffer from dry, flaky skin, especially in the colder months, adding a serum to your routine that targets moisture retention might be the solution. The Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid contains marula oil and hyaluronic acid for deep hydration, to be layered under a moisturizer.
Dermatologist Recommended: “I don’t typically opt for a serum after cleansing. I usually go right into a moisturizer, but during winter, I can see my skin getting more flaky and dry. I’ve been really liking this Peptide Glazing Fluid. It is very lightweight and absorbs quickly. It doesn’t leave a very sticky finish. This is my choice for combo skin and acne-prone skin.” —Dr. Joyce
Best Winter Skincare Moisturizers
Cetaphil Daily Smoothing Moisturizer for Rough and Bumpy Skin
Contains 20% urea, which can significantly improve signs of dry, scaly skin (formula is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, non-irritating and non-sensitizing)
Rough and bumpy skin on the body sometimes needs a little extra love. For cases like these, the Cetaphil Daily Smoothing Moisturizer for Rough and Bumpy Skin is great for soothing irritation and softening the skin. The gentle, lightweight formula also contains 20% urea to boost skin moisture while gently exfoliating to reduce the appearance of bumps.
Dermatologist Recommended: “Of all the moisturizers, this one you would not want to use on your face. It’s more for areas of the body where you have dry, rough patches. Urea is one of those ingredients that’s really good for moisture content. It goes on evenly, more smoothly, and leaves the skin feeling soft and hydrated.” —Dr. Dray
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer
Contains hyaluronic acid for deep moisture and hydration (oil-free and non-comedogenic)
Moisturizer will become your best friend during winter, keeping that dry skin ultra-hydrated, as recommended by dermatologist Dr. Joyce, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer is great for dry and combination skin as well as oily acne-prone skin. Editor’s tip: we recommend using this as a nightly moisturizer rather than daytime because of its intense hydrating effects. It can leave the skin feeling slightly tacky.
Dermatologist Recommended: “This is where I really step up my game. I switch out my gels and lightweight moisturizers thick, heavy-duty creams. This cream looks and feels like a gel, but it leaves behind a really thick residue where I wake up the next morning, and my skin is still super hydrated. I recommend this for all skin types. It’s super hydrating for dry and combination skin, but because it has a gel texture, it’s also awesome for oily acne-prone skin.” —Dr. Joyce
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Contains three essential ceramides to help protect, moisturize, and strengthen the skin’s barrier (fragrance-free, paraben-free, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic)
Perhaps one of the best-known moisturizers on the market, the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a cult favorite sure to get you through winter’s dry spell. It’s fragrance-free and contains hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and MVE technology for 24-hour hydration. It also absorbs quickly for softened skin without a greasy, sticky feel.
Dermatologist Recommended: “This cream is just a great blend of humectants, emollients, and I find that it is just incredibly user-friendly. This is another one of the moisturizers I travel with the most because it can be used on the face and body. If you’re looking for a great all-around no-nonsense moisturizer for the wintertime, this is it. ” —Dr. Same Ellis, Board-certified dermatologist in Danville, CA
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5
Contains Shea Butter and Glycerin, which help to nourish skin and visibly reduce the sign of irritation caused by dryness, and madecassoside, copper, zinc, and maganese to visibly reduce the appearance of dry, irritated skin (paraben-free, fragrance-free, allergy tested, non-comedogenic and suitable for sensitive skin)
Sometimes moisturizers aren’t enough and you need something thicker for dry and irritated areas around the nose. In these cases, opt for a balm like the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5. This is great as an anti-inflammatory as well as a deep moisturizer.
Dermatologist Recommended: “It’s really popular and for a good reason. It’s a great healing balm. You can see right off the bat the difference in appearance. It has zinc, which is great for healing, and copper, which is great for anti-inflammatory. This is a product you can comfortably wear on the face, and I highly recommend it. ” —Dr. Dray
Aveeno Restorative Skin Therapy Moisturizing Oat Repairing Cream
Contains oat and aloe to aid with soothing and retaining moisture (formulated without parabens, sulfates, fragrances, soaps, dyes, non-greasy, allergy tested, and non-comedogenic)
When treating dry skin from head to toe, there are few moisturizers on the market like the Aveeno Restorative Skin Therapy Moisturizing Oat Repairing Cream. It’s an intense hydration, using the properties of oats to soften the skin and retain moisture. It’s best used right after the shower.
Dermatologist Recommended: “A great cream for the body to consider moving into the winter months is Aveeno’s Oat Repairing Cream. Oats act as moisturizers, hitting three key aspects: oils that help soften skin cells, add hydration, and help reduce water loss from skin.” —Dr. Dray
Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream
Contains sugarcane-derived squalane to help nourish dry, flaky skin, prevent moisture loss, and restore suppleness (vegan, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free)
It’s a bit on the pricy side, but as an editor-tested and approved product, the Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream is the real deal. The sugarcane-derived squalane helps retain moister along with hyaluronic acids, while ceramides work to protect the skin barrier. Editor’s tip: if you are close to a Sephora, always ask for a sample. They’re free, and this way you can test the product for a few nights before committing to the purchase.
Dermatologist Recommended: “A nourishing rich but not over the top night cream that I think is great. Certainly, you can use it in the morning because it does absorb nicely and doesn’t leave a greasy look, but for most people, this is a good night cream.” —Dr. Jenny Liu
Best Winter Skincare Lipbalms
Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment
Contains shea butter and chamomile for hydration, and soothing skin (free and paraben-free
Aquaphor has long been tested and approved by consumers everywhere as a great body and face moisturizer; however, their lip product might be a star that doesn’t get as much love. Developed to soothe and heal chapped lips, especially during those brutal cold months, the Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment is fragrance-free and paraben-free and helps prevent dryness for long-lasting moisture.
Dermatologist Recommended: “Aquaphor contains panthenol, vitamin B5, as well as shea butter, and their formulation has certain antioxidants that might be helpful with chapped or generally irritated skin.” —Dr. Jenny Liu
Biossance Squalane + Rose Vegan Lip Balm
Contains sugarcane-derived squalane to nourish dry, flaky skin, prevent moisture loss, and restore suppleness (vegan, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free)
If you’re sensitive to fragrance but still want something that not only soothes your chapped lips but smells good too, try the Biossance Squalane+ Rose Vegan Lip Balm. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid and sugarcane-derived squalane to help moisturize your lips with the subtle hint of roses derived from wax rather than fragrance.
Dermatologist Recommended: “I am obsessed with this product because it is the first rose lip balm I’ve found that doesn’t actually have rose fragrance in it! It has rose wax in it, which is super super hydrating. It goes onto the lips so nicely, and actually nourishes without having colors or fragrances.” —Cassandra Bankson, Certified medical esthetician in San Francisco, CA.
Torriden SOLID IN Ceramide Lip Essence
Contains ceramides NP, NS, AS, EOP, AP to repair and protect the skin, and organic jojoba oil, macadamia seed oil, olive oil, and baobab tree seed oil for deep moisture (free of artificial fragrance, colorants, parabens, mineral oils, and isopropyl alcohol)
Turning chapped, flaky, dry, peeling lips into dewy, glowy, smooth, and moistened lips, the Torriden SOLID IN Lip Essence is a ceramide-filled balm perfect for the wintertime. It doesn’t leave your lips feeling sticky and contains organic jojoba oil, macadamia seed oil, olive oil, and baobab tree seed oil for deep hydration and nourishment.
Dermatologist Recommended: “I f*ucking love this. If you’re looking for a ceramide punch, this is it. Yes, using an inclusive barrier like vaseline or petroleum jelly can really help, but making sure you have something hydrating, bringing water into the skin, then sealing that moisture is so important, and that’s what this does.” —Cassandra Bankson
Things We Consider When Recommending Products
Dermatologist Reviewed: We feel more confident knowing there’s a professional opinion in the mix when suggesting skincare. That’s why we look towards dermatologists and licensed estheticians for their top recommendations for your skincare needs.
Audience Tested: Though we love uplifting and supporting up-and-coming brands, we want to ensure that there is a range of tried and true products for your consideration. That’s why we blend them, delivering you suggestions that both we and hundreds of others can attest to.
Formulation Considerations: No one product fits all when it comes to skin. From acne-prone to sensitive and oily, the list goes on for the various skin types. That’s why we recommend a range of products tackling different skin concerns.
