How to Keep Your Skin from Drying Out This Winter

Why Does Skin Get Dry in Winter?

Winter air holds less moisture, and indoor heating dries it out even more.

When temperatures drop, the air holds less moisture. Indoor heating systems compound this problem by further reducing humidity levels, creating a double assault on your skin's natural moisture barrier. Cold winds and dry air strip away your skin's protective oils, while hot showers—unfortunately—can damage the lipid layer that keeps moisture locked in.

The Role of Your Home Environment in Skin Health

Optimal indoor humidity for skin health: 40–50%

In winter, indoor humidity can fall as low as 10–20%. This dry air draws moisture directly from your skin, leaving it dehydrated, tight, and more prone to irritation.

Your indoor environment plays a bigger role in skin hydration than you might think. Central heating can reduce indoor humidity to levels as low as 10-20%, when optimal humidity for skin health is around 40-50%. This dry indoor air pulls moisture directly from your skin, leaving it dehydrated and vulnerable.

Consider investing in a humidifier for your bedroom and main living spaces. Running a humidifier while you sleep can significantly improve skin hydration levels by morning. Additionally, be mindful of your thermostat settings. Keeping your home slightly cooler (around 68-70°F) can help prevent excessive dryness while still maintaining comfort.

What helps:

• Use a humidifier in bedrooms and main living spaces.

• Run it overnight to improve skin hydration by morning.

• Keep your thermostat slightly cooler (around 68–70°F) to reduce dryness without sacrificing comfort

Can Laundry Detergent Cause Dry or Irritated Skin?

Yes—especially in winter.

Your clothing comes into direct contact with your skin all day, so what you’re washing your laundry with matters more than you think. Harsh detergents with synthetic fragrances and irritating chemicals can leave residues on fabrics that trigger or worsen dry, sensitive skin, especially in winter when your skin barrier is already compromised. Opt for our Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent. If your skin is extra sensitive this time of year and you’re prone to eczema or other skin conditions, our unscented Free & Clear is hypoallergenic and recognized by the NEA.

What to look for:

• Gentle, biobased formulas free of dyes, sulfates, bleaches, optical brighteners, and fragrances.

• Detergents that rinse clean without residue

Our Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent is designed to clean effectively without irritating skin. If you’re prone to eczema or seasonal sensitivity, our Free & Clear formula is unscented, hypoallergenic, and recognized by the NEA. 

Adjust Your Cleansing Routines for Winter Skin Care

1. Use less heat, less time, and gentler formulas.
Hot water feels great on a cold day, but a long hot shower strips away natural oils that protect your skin barrier. Opt for lukewarm water instead, and keep showers and baths from going too long—ideally under 10 minutes.

2. Choose gentle, pH-balanced cleansers
These won't disrupt your skin's natural protective barrier. Harsh soaps and sulfate-heavy body washes can exacerbate winter dryness by removing too many of the oils your skin needs to stay hydrated. Look for cleansers labeled as "gentle," "moisturizing," or "for sensitive skin,” and recognition from the NEA is important to keep an eye out for if you have eczema. Oil cleansers and balms can be a good switch to make during the winter months too, as they deeply cleanse without stripping. 

3. Avoid harsh soaps and sulfate-heavy body washes.
The same principle applies to hand washing. Frequent hand washing, though important during flu season, can dry out your hands significantly during winter. Again, try not to wash in ultra hot water, and be sure to use a mild, moisturizing hand soap. 

4. Look for labels like “gentle,” “moisturizing,” or “for sensitive skin”
And then follow up with hand cream. Keep a good hand moisturizer near every sink in your house as a reminder to reapply after washing.

5. NEA recognition is especially helpful if you have eczema. Our Free & Clear Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent is recognized by the NEA.

Is Using the Dishwasher Better for Your Skin?

Yes, when possible. Washing dishes by hand exposes your skin to prolonged hot water and detergents. Using a dishwasher helps reduce overcleansing and protects your hands.

When you are doing dishes by hand, our Bio Enzyme Liquid Dish Detergent is formulated with rice water to help soothe and soften your skin. It’s also optimized for soaking, meaning you can give your hands a break while the enzymes in the formula do the work, and it’s just as effective in cool to cold water as it is in hot, so you don’t have to worry about skin drying out from heat, either. 

How to Lock In Moisture During Winter

Moisturize immediately after bathing or showering.

This traps water in your skin before it can evaporate, and protects your skin barrier at the same time. 

During the winter months, you may need to upgrade from a lightweight lotion to a richer cream or even an ointment, especially on particularly dry areas like hands, feet, and elbows. 

Look for ingredients like:

• Ceramides

• Hyaluronic acid

• Glycerin

• Natural oils

These help repair the skin barrier while attracting and retaining moisture.

How to Protect Your Skin Outdoors in Cold Weather

Cold air and wind can cause chapping and irritation, especially on the face and hands.

When heading outside in cold weather, cover exposed skin as much as possible. Scarves, gloves, and hats aren't just for warmth—they're essential winter skin protection. Wind and cold can cause chapping and irritation, especially on your face and hands.

Before heading outside:

• Cover exposed skin with scarves, gloves, and hats

• Apply a heavier moisturizer or protective balm to exposed areas

• Look for occlusive ingredients like shea butter or petroleum jelly

And yes—you still need sunscreen in winter. UV rays reflect off snow and penetrate clouds, contributing to dryness and premature aging year-round.

Stay Hydrated from the Inside Out

Skin hydration starts from the inside.

Even if you’re not sweating as much, winter air dehydrates you just as easily. Aim to drink about one glass of water every hour throughout the day. If you’re exercising or attending hot yoga, increase your intake and consider adding electrolytes.

Nutrition matters, too.
Omega-3 fatty acids—found in fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds—help strengthen cell membranes and improve your skin’s ability to retain moisture.

When to See a Dermatologist

If you've tried these winter skin care tips and you're still experiencing severe dryness, persistent itching, cracking, bleeding, or signs of infection, you might want to consult your dermatologist. What seems like simple dry skin could be eczema or another condition that requires professional treatment.

Winter Skin Care FAQs