My Go-To Winter Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

I don’t know about you guys, but during the winter, my skin really throws me for a loop. Between the harsh and cold weather and more travel than usual, I start to notice that the texture and overall feel of my skin takes a hit.

I’ve tried so many products that claim they’ll soothe dry winter skin, but honestly, so many of them don’t live up to the hype. However, the good news for you is that through lots of trial and error, I finally nailed down a winter skincare routine for dry skin that actually delivers noticeable benefits.

While I know that every skin type is different, I do believe that these products will help you get your complexion under control this season. I can’t imagine my skincare lineup without these products, and I’m sure that once you try them, you’ll feel the same way.

Here’s to healthier, hydrated skin — no matter the season!

Winter Skincare Routine (Updated for 2025)

Tatcha Makeup Remover & Cleanser

Most of you guys know that my love for Tatcha runs deep — and this makeup remover is one of the products I am constantly reordering. It’s super gentle on my skin and I love the way it melts off everything from mascara to concealer.

It also doubles as a cleanser (so there’s one less step for you!) and is packed with nourishing vitamins and omegas.

Tatcha Gold Camellia Beauty Oil

When additional moisture is needed, this oil is one of the first products I reach for. You can apply it all over your face, but I specifically love using it underneath my eyes.

I always find that the delicate under-eye area is one of the first spots that can look tired and dull in the winter. This oil plumps your skin up a bit and leaves you with a more awake and healthy glow. I use it both morning and night!

Volufiline Serum

To be total honest, an under $25 Amazon skincare find wasn’t necessarily on my Bingo card for making this list. However, after hearing rave reviews about this serum and finally trying it out for myself, I now understand the hype. It’s the type of product you can apply anywhere on your skin and see noticeable results from. Some people swear it keeps their chapped lips healthy while others (like myself) prefer to use it underneath their eyes. It leaves you with a more full look, plumping and hydrating your skin.

Snail Muchin

I know a lot of you will be tempted to skip out on this given the product’s name, but hear me out. There’s a reason this Korean beauty product has gained so much popularity: It actually works.

If you have particularly dry and sensitive skin, I couldn’t recommend this enough. I apply it in the morning after I use my vitamin C serum and always feel like it’s soothing my skin while replenishing moisture. If you need more convincing, the 76,000+ reviews might twist your arm.

ShadeDrops Sunscreen

Don’t fall into the belief that sunscreen is only reserved for the summer. Year-round use of a trusted SPF is a must. This one is lightweight and glowy, ideal for those days when your skin needs a little pick-me-up.

p.s. I have a full review of my favorite Summer Friday products in this blog post.

Tatcha Violet-C Brightening Serum

If you have any skincare concerns like dark spots or texture problems, incorporating a vitamin C serum will be a game changer. I have tried several options that I love but have found myself consistently going back to this one. In general, vitamin C can be irritating to the skin, but this pick is gentle and more affordable than many others on the market. I’d say it’s comparable to the SkinCeuticals serum (at a fraction of the cost.)

Augustinus Bader Lash Serum

A lash serum might not fall into the “skincare” category but I have been loving this one so much that I had to include it here. In the winter, I tend to wear less makeup since my skin is already on the dry and sensitive side. Because of that, it’s nice when your lashes and brows really pop. This serum can be applied to both spots, leaving them lengthier, healthier, and more full. Another perk is that it’s made with better-for-you ingredients!

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream

Give the price point, I was on the fence about giving this cult-favorite face cream a try. With that being said, now that I’ve tried it, I’m hooked (so consider this your warning!) When it comes to skincare, this cream really does it all: improves the appearance of dark spots and uneven texture, combats loss of firmness, adds a hefty dose of hydration, and offers anti-aging benefits. What more could you want?

As the name implies, it really does feel “rich” on your skin, making it a top pick for any winter skincare lineup. You’ll be left with a fresh, well-hydrated complexion.

Joanna Czech The C+ Serum

I talked about vitamin C above, and it really is a non-negotiable in my skincare routine. The issue is that many of them can be harsh on your skin and ultimately lead to more irritation and dryness, but that’s certainly not the case with this pick.

This serum is another that I’ve been impressed with, so I wanted to highlight it here in case you’re looking for an option that’s lightweight and non-drying. Bonus: It’s the perfect layer to add before putting on makeup.

Guerlain Abeille Royale Advanced Youth Watery Oil

This is one of my holy grail skincare finds. Everything about it feels decadent and luxe, and the best part is that it’s a total hero when it comes to saving dry winter skin.

It’s a water to oil serum that you can use either during the day or at night. I’ve been loading up on this and it has undoubtedly kept my skin fresh and hydrated throughout the weather changes.

Biossance Overnight Rescue Deep Repair Cream

I credit a lot of my progress with dry skin to this overnight cream. I think it’s a total game changer and if you’re struggling to actually keep your complexion moisturized, I’d highly recommend giving this a try. It contains ectoin, which is shown to protect skin against damage caused by external aggressors.

Peter Thomas Roth Hydra-Gel Eye Patches

For those nights when you really want to go all out with your skincare, reach for these gel eye patches. They’re easy to use and just take 10 to 15 minutes to work some moisturizing magic. In addition to helping with dryness, these patches can also target issues like wrinkles, fine lines, and puffiness—a win-win!

Tatcha Kissu Lip Mask

If there’s one part of my skin that gets exceptionally dry during the winter, it’s my lips. If you’re in the same boat, then I promise that this soothing jelly lip mask will be your new go-to.

I really like that while this mask is ultra-hydrating, it doesn’t leave behind that dreaded “sticky” feeling. Also, you can use this at any point during the day, but I think applying it right before bed is best.