How to adjust your skincare routine for a winter vacation? 

A winter getaway can offer much-needed respite from the scorching temperatures in Singapore, but the biting cold coupled with indoor heating can take a toll on your delicate skin barrier. A compromised barrier can result in tight, irritated and itchy skin. It can also exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea. This is why it’s so important to winterproof your skincare routine and make simple adjustments to your skincare routine.

During winter, the cold weather often leads to increased skin sensitivity, which can trigger acute flares of inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. The drop in humidity and exposure to harsh elements can also result in dry, chapped lips, medically known as cheilitis. For some, cold temperatures may even induce hives or urticaria.

Understanding these potential effects can help you take preventative measures and tailor your skincare routine to the climate.

In general, a good skincare routine involves a cleanser, a moisturiser and good sunscreen which contains ingredients and are of formulations suitable for your skin type and the climate that you are in.

Transitioning from hot to cold weather

“The tropical climate in Singapore is perennially hot and humid. Our skincare routines usually focus on combating the heat, humidity as well as oil control. These routines may not adequately address the bitter cold and dryness that one experiences in harsh winter. Products in your skincare routine in Singapore may contain ingredients that have deep cleansing and exfoliating properties to prevent breakouts and promote cell turnover, exacerbating dryness in a cold climate. We tend to also use lightweight moisturisers as well in the tropics. 

In a colder destination, the same principles apply which is to still practise cleansing, moisturising and sun protection. This time, however, harsh cleansers should be avoided so as to prevent excessive dryness. Gentle, fragrance-free, soap-free moisturising/hydrating cleansers should be used. For moisturisers, the usual oil-free, water-based moisturisers used in a tropical climate may not be sufficiently hydrating for colder drier climates. Lightweight moisturising gels and lotions may not suffice. Look for richer creams, oils and balms with key ingredients to maintain the skin barrier such as ceramides, lipids and hyaluronic acid. Anti-aging or exfoliating ingredients that we usually use in tropical climates such as retinols, retinoids, glycolic and salicylic acid should be minimised, or used judiciously at a much lower concentration.

Sunscreen use remains crucial even in colder climates. Opt for a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply moisturiser first, followed by sunscreen as the final layer of your skincare routine. Additionally, try to seek shade during peak UV hours, typically between 10am and 3pm for extra sun protection.

The key to tackling dryness in winter is consistent barrier protection and moisturising. Always remember to moisturise, moisturise and moisturise.  Moisturise regularly with the right kind of moisturiser - fragrance free, with skin fortifying ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid and lipids, and one that is rich in texture – a cream/ointment would be better for very harsh winters. 

For sun protection, use a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days. Reapply sunscreen every two to three hours (no sunscreen is water proof).

Just like how you need to protect the skin barrier on your face, do not forget to moisturise your lips and hands as well. Fragrance- and alcohol-free lip balms and ointments are highly recommended.

Avoid taking hot showers and long baths as these tend to damage your skin barrier. Instead, take a quick shower with lukewarm water and ensure you always moisturise after cleansing/showering. Use a gentle, fragrance-free,  soap-free substitute as a cleanser and moisturise immediately after showering.

If the air is too dry, having a humidifier in your room helps to add moisture in the air. By prioritising these non-negotiables, you can help protect your skin from the harsh effects of winter weather.”