When the temperature drops, the last thing you want is your skin to suffer. Cold weather, low humidity, and the harsh winds of winter can all leave your face feeling dry, tight, and uncomfortable.

The solution to this winter woe is simple—add a moisturiser to your daily routine. In our guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about winter moisturisers, including expert advice from Dr. Zein Obagi, renowned Dermatologist and Founder of ZO Skin Health.

Why do we need a winter moisturiser?

During winter, the outermost layer of our skin can become drier and more susceptible to damage. This happens because cold air and indoor heating can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it less protected from environmental aggressors. As a result, your skin’s moisture barrier becomes compromised and skin may appear dull, rough, and even irritated.

But should we be reliant on moisturisers to fix this issue? “It’s important to use skincare that activates the cells in the skin to renew. The stimulation of cells will restore the natural functions of your skin. However, if you still feel dry after using targeted serums to activate your cells, then you can use a moisturiser, but you should not be relying on moisturisers,” believes Dr Obagi.

Not all moisturisers are created equal however, and with so many options out there, it’s essential to choose a formula that complements your skin’s unique needs.

Do all skin types need a moisturiser in winter?

Not every skin type will need a moisturiser during the winter months, but all skin types can most certainly reap the benefits of a moisturiser during winter if their barrier has been compromised. Whether you have oily, dry, combination or sensitive skin, cold and dry air can lead to moisture loss, and every skin type needs hydration to function properly.

Dry skin
If your skin is naturally dry, it needs all the moisture it can get in the winter months. Look for rich, emollient formulas that deeply hydrate and replenish lost moisture.

Oily skin
Even though your skin produces more oil, it can still lose moisture in winter. Opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturisers that won’t clog pores or leave your skin feeling greasy.

Combination skin
This skin type can be tricky, but a moisturiser that hydrates without overwhelming oily areas is key. Gel-based or light creams work well.

Sensitive skin
Sensitive skin may react to harsh winter conditions more easily. Choose calming moisturisers with soothing ingredients like ceramides, aloe vera and hyaluronic acid to help restore the skin’s protective barrier.

Key ingredients to look for 

Understanding which ingredients to look for, can make all the difference in selecting the perfect winter moisturiser. Seek out actives that help rebuild and maintain the skin barrier, which is essential for preventing moisture loss and protecting the skin from external aggressors.

• Hyaluronic acid: A potent humectant that draws moisture into the skin, leaving it plump and hydrated.
• Ceramides: Lipid molecules that help restore the skin’s natural barrier, locking in moisture.
• Glycerin: An effective humectant that helps the skin retain moisture without feeling greasy.
• Squalane: A lightweight oil that mimics the skin's natural oils and provides hydration without clogging pores.
• Peptides: Help to repair the skin barrier and support collagen production, which is essential for maintaining youthful skin.

The best moisturisers for winter

When temperatures plummet, not all moisturisers will provide the level of hydration your skin needs. Below, we break down the best moisturisers for different skin types.

Rich creams for dry skin

If your skin feels tight, dry and flaky during the colder months, opt for a thick, rich cream to lock in moisture and provide a heavier layer of protection. We like Skin Rocks The Rich Moisturiser— 
thick in texture, this intensely nourishing, barrier-replenishing moisturiser is made for skin that needs extra care, addressing dryness at its core to leave skin soft, conditioned and resilient.

Ingredients to try:

• Ceramides: Help restore the skin barrier and retain moisture.
• Shea butter or cocoa butter: These ingredients are rich in fatty acids and provide intense nourishment.
• Hyaluronic acid: Attracts moisture to the skin and keeps it hydrated.

Gel-based or oil-free moisturisers for oily skin

Oily skin types need hydration too, but without the added oils. Gel-based or oil-free moisturisers provide moisture while maintaining a non-greasy finish. Try CeraVe Oil Control Moisturising Gel-Cream, a daily lightweight moisturising gel-cream with oil absorbing technology, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and ceramides, to help absorb excess oil while maintaining a healthy skin barrier for all day hydration, without the shine.

Ingredients to try:

• Hyaluronic acid: Lightweight and hydrating, it won’t clog pores.
• Glycerin: A humectant that draws moisture into the skin without adding oil.
• Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3 that helps regulate oil production while soothing and strengthening the skin barrier.

Lightweight lotions for combination skin

Combination skin needs a moisturiser that hydrates without exacerbating oiliness in the T-zone. A light, non-comedogenic cream or lotion works best. Try Clinique Moisture Surge 72-Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator—this lightweight gel-cream provides deep hydration without feeling heavy, thanks to a hefty dose of hyaluronic acid and aloe leaf extract, making it perfect for combination skin.

Ingredients to try:

• Vitamin C: Helps brighten the skin while balancing hydration levels.
• Green tea extract: An antioxidant that calms and refreshes the skin.
• Squalane: A lightweight hydrator that doesn’t clog pores.

Soothing moisturisers for sensitive skin

Sensitive skin requires products that won’t irritate or inflame. Choose a calming, fragrance-free moisturiser with gentle, hydrating ingredients. We suggest Revision Skincare DEJ Face Cream— formulated with sensitive skin in mind, this soothing moisturiser strengthens and enhances the skin’s natural moisture barrier using prebiotics and lipid technology, all while providing deep hydration.

Ingredients to try:

• Aloe vera: Renowned for its soothing properties.
• Ceramides and fatty acids: Both help strengthen the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
• Allantoin or camomile: Both have anti-inflammatory properties.

Winter skin doesn’t have to look dry and flaky. By choosing the right moisturiser for your skin type and needs, you can keep your skin soft, smooth, and glowing all season long. Whether you need a rich balm or a lightweight gel, remember that barrier protection is key.