Overview
- Cold air, low humidity, hot showers and indoor heating accelerate transepidermal water loss, leaving skin dry, tight and more sensitive.
- Switch to creamy, hydrating cleansers and avoid foaming or alcohol-heavy formulas, and cut back on over-washing to protect the lipid barrier.
- Layer humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, then seal with lipids and occlusives such as ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids, oils or squalane, and favor richer moisturizers or cream sunscreens.
- Exfoliate sparingly with gentle options like lactic acid, PHAs or enzymes, and avoid harsh scrubs or strong AHAs that can compromise the barrier.
- Give extra attention to lips, hands and body with nourishing balms, thick hand creams and body butters or oils, and consider using a humidifier to boost indoor moisture.