10 simple steps to include in a perfect winter skincare routine for men

Just like we protect ourselves by wearing a coat and warm boots, we also need to tweak our skincare habits to suit the season. The cold and windy weather can cause it to become dry, cracked and suffer from unpleasant irritation. Yet a few simple steps and the right products can keep your skin glowing even in winter.

1. Squeaky clean 

What is an absolute must-have? Cleansing! Just by cleansing your skin regularly, you can get rid of irritation, impurities, sebum and dead skin cells. Pick a gentle gel cleanser or balm that suits your skin type to remove impurities without drying out your skin.

2. Proper hydration is key 

Warm and dry air from your heating, switching between cold and warm temperatures, low humidity – winter makes your skin scream for hydration. Ideally, choose a high-quality moisturising cream with a richer texture, formulated with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, peptides or glycerine.

3. Discover the magic of exfoliation

Get rid of dead cells, clogged pores and impurities with gentle exfoliation. Not only will your skin be beautifully soft, but your moisturising treatments will be better absorbed.

4. Protect yourself from the sun

Yes, even in winter! Even the winter sun can damage your skin and cause premature ageing. Apply a day cream with an SPF of at least 30 every day regardless of the weather and season, and use even higher factors if you are in the mountains. 

5. Lower the water temperature when showering

A hot shower is one of the great joys of winter, but water that is too hot can strip the natural oils from your skin and make it dry. Instead, go for warm water that’s enjoyable and minimise the time you spend in the shower. 

6. Think about your water intake

Not only does a lack of hydration affect the body, it also influences your skin. Keep an eye on your water intake even in winter, when we often don’t feel as thirsty due to the cold, to keep your skin hydrated from within. Make it a point to cut back on alcohol and caffeine and start the day by drinking lukewarm water with lemon juice. It’ll benefit your skin as well as your digestion. 

7. Don’t forget to use a hand cream and lip balm

Those are the parts of our body that are most exposed to the adverse winter conditions, yet we often forget about them. That’s why you should always have a moisturising hand cream and lip balm on hand to protect you against the cold and windy weather. Wear gloves and moisturise your hands especially after washing them. You won’t be the only one who’ll enjoy your soft kisses and velvety hands.

8. Avoid products with harsh ingredients

During winter (and ideally throughout the entire year), try to avoid harsh cleansing products and toners with alcohol, which can dry out and disrupt your skin’s natural barrier.

9. Get yourself a humidifier

Make your home environment comfortable for both your skin and overall health with a humidifier. Adding moisture to the air helps maintain optimal humidity in an area – and that is a great comfort for skin stressed by the cold and frosty conditions.

10. Give your skin a break

Sometimes the best thing to do is nothing at all. Literally. Instead of weighing your skin down with a lot of products, go to the sauna or enjoy a spa day and let yourself and your skin relax. Can you try and fit it in at least once a week? This kind of relaxation is a must for both the body and soul.

We all want to enjoy feeling at ease, refreshed and healthy throughout the winter. How many of our tips can you, gentlemen, incorporate into your skincare routine?