This month, Louise Thomas-Minns, Founder and CEO of Louise Thomas Skin Care, explains what your winter skin really needs – and why your moisturiser isn’t cutting it.
As the temperature drops, your skin starts sending signals: tightness, flaking, dull tone, and that uncomfortable dry, papery feeling. Sound familiar? In our skin lounges, I hear this every winter from clients: “I’m using a moisturiser, but my skin still feels dry, dull, and uncomfortable.” Here’s the truth: Your moisturiser isn’t cutting it – because winter skin needs more than just moisture. Let’s talk about why your face feels this way during colder months, and what actually helps.
Why Winter Skin Feels Tight, Flaky and Dull
1. The Cold Air Effect
Cold air holds less moisture. So, when you step outside, it literally pulls water out of your skin – especially if your skin barrier is compromised.
2. Indoor Heating = Dehydration (TEWL)
Central heating dries the air indoors, causing further trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). You’re losing hydration round the clock – without even realising it.
3. Compromised Skin Barrier
Wind, temperature shifts, harsh cleansers and exfoliants strip the skin’s protective barrier. Without that barrier intact, your skin struggles to retain moisture and becomes more prone to irritation.
Dry vs. Dehydrated Skin (Yes, There’s a Difference): Dry skin lacks oil; Dehydrated skin lacks water. You can be oily and dehydrated, or dry and dehydrated. Either way, that tight, uncomfortable feeling comes from a lack of water in the skin – not just oil. This is why a heavy moisturiser alone won’t fix the issue.
What Winter Skin Actually Needs
1. Humectants to Hydrate Deeply
Look for products with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, lightweight shea butters and plant polysaccharides. These draw water into the skin.
At Louise Thomas Skin Care, I recommend layering a hydrating serum under your moisturiser for best results.
2. Barrier-Supporting Moisturisers
Look for formulas with: Ceramides, Fatty acids, Cholesterol – the moisturising complex found in ALL our signature products.
3. Gentle Cleansing
Louise Thomas Skin Care The Cleanser effectively cleanses with a luxurious foam while supporting the skin barrier.
4. Exfoliation (yes, really!)
Gentle enzyme- or lactic exfoliants help remove dull, flaky skin – no harsh scrubs.
5. Environmental Protection
SPF still matters in winter. UV, cold, and wind damage the barrier. Vitamin D supplementation may help in low sunlight months.
My Clinic Approach
At Louise Thomas Skin Care, I help rebuild skin health through:
– Strengthening the barrier
– Replenishing hydration
– Customised routines for sensitive or compromised skin
The Bottom Line: Winter skin issues are not from lack of effort, but from lack of strategy.
Skincare Myth: A rich moisturiser is enough.
Skincare Truth: Winter skin needs hydration, protection, and repair. Eat your good fats!
Ready to Transform Your Winter Skin? Book a consultation or explore our curated winter skincare essentials.
Plus, the Louise Thomas 12 Beauty Tips of Christmas!
Cleanse for 60 seconds.
Give your cleanser time to lift away build-up – it makes a real difference to your glow.
Double cleanse after SPF or make-up.
The first removes the day, the second treats – your skin will thank you.
Never skip your barrier.
If your skin feels tight, it is asking for hydration, not exfoliation.
Don’t fear oil if you’re oily.
The right oils balance sebum, not increase it.
Warm your products in your hands.
It helps them spread evenly and absorb more effectively.
Apply hydrating serums to damp skin.
Moisture helps actives penetrate better and locks in hydration.
Swap harsh scrubs for gentle acids.
Smooth, don’t scratch – cell renewal should feel kind.
Use a cold flannel or cryo tool in the morning.
It boosts circulation, depuffs and wakes up dull winter skin.
Change your pillowcase twice a week.
It’s one of the easiest ways to reduce congestion and breakouts. You could also add a silk version to your Christmas list to stop facial ‘creases.’
Layer lightest to richest.
Serum before cream, always. It’s skincare physics.
Don’t forget your neck and chest.
They age just like your face – extend every product downwards.
Stress shows on your skin.
Even five minutes of deep breathing or a walk in nature helps it look calmer.
Visit Louise Thomas Skin Care.
Featured image of Louise – supplied
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