Fall & Winter Skincare Tips: Keep Your Skin Hydrated and Healthy

As the temperatures drop and humidity levels plummet, many people notice their skin becoming drier, tighter, or more sensitive. The shift from warm summer air to cold, dry winter air can take a toll on your complexion, especially if you don’t update your skincare routine.

At Premier Dermatology & Aesthetics in NYC, Dr. Adam Nabatian helps patients protect their skin through every season. Here’s how to keep your skin radiant and hydrated through fall and winter.

1. Switch to a Hydrating Cleanser

Light foaming cleansers are great for summer but can strip the skin of essential oils in colder months. As the air becomes drier, it’s best to use a gentle, creamy, or hydrating cleanser that won’t disrupt your skin barrier. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin, which help maintain moisture while cleansing away impurities.

Tip: Avoid hot water, it can worsen dryness and irritation. Lukewarm water is ideal for keeping the skin barrier intact.

2. Moisturize And Then Moisturize Again

Cold air outside and heated indoor air inside can both deplete skin hydration. A rich moisturizer forms a protective barrier that locks in moisture and shields against harsh weather.

• For normal to dry skin: Choose a cream with shea butter, ceramides, and squalane.

• For oily or acne-prone skin: Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic lotions that still hydrate effectively.

At Premier Dermatology & Aesthetics, we often recommend medical-grade moisturizers that repair the skin barrier while maintaining a smooth, non-greasy finish.

Pro tip: Apply moisturizer within 60 seconds after cleansing to trap hydration.

3. Continue Using Sunscreen

Even when it’s cloudy or cold, UV rays are still present and can contribute to premature aging and pigmentation. Reflective winter surfaces, like snow, can even intensify UV exposure.

Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, especially on your face, neck, and hands. Many of our patients in NYC prefer lightweight, tinted sunscreens for daily wear that blend seamlessly into all skin tones.

4. Add Hydration Boosters

If your skin feels tight or flaky, layering hydration can make all the difference. Incorporate hydrating serums or boosters before applying moisturizer.

Ingredients to look for:

• Hyaluronic acid to retain water within the skin

• Niacinamide to strengthen the skin barrier and soothe inflammation

• Vitamin B5 (panthenol) for additional softness and repair

You can also consider in-office hydrating facials or laser skin rejuvenation to restore a healthy glow when skin looks dull or uneven.

5. Exfoliate Gently and Less Often

While exfoliation removes dead skin cells and helps products absorb better, overdoing it in winter can cause irritation. Cut back to once or twice a week and choose gentle chemical exfoliants (like lactic or mandelic acid) instead of harsh scrubs.

If you have sensitive or dry skin, Dr. Nabatian can recommend medical-grade exfoliants or customized chemical peels that refresh without stripping moisture.

6. Incorporate Richer Night Treatments

Nighttime is when your skin repairs itself. Switch your lightweight summer serums for richer night creams or oils that deeply hydrate. Ingredients like peptides, ceramides, and antioxidants support skin regeneration overnight.

If you use retinoids, balance them with a nourishing moisturizer to prevent irritation, a common issue during colder months. 

7. Protect Lips, Hands, and Eyes

These areas are often the first to show signs of dryness and aging.

• Lips: Apply a hydrating balm throughout the day.

• Hands: Keep a travel-size hand cream handy, especially after washing your hands.

• Eyes: Use a hydrating eye cream to protect delicate skin from wind and cold air.

8. Maintain Indoor Humidity

Heating systems can reduce humidity levels, drying out your skin. Using a humidifier in your bedroom or workspace helps replenish moisture in the air and in your skin.

Aim for a humidity level between 40–60% for optimal comfort and hydration.

9. Schedule a Professional Skin Check or Facial

Fall and winter are excellent seasons to reset your skincare routine and address summer sun damage. At Premier Dermatology & Aesthetics, we offer:

• Medical-grade facials for hydration and glow

• Laser treatments to target pigmentation or redness

• Prescription topicals for dryness or acne flare-ups

Dr. Nabatian can evaluate your skin and customize a treatment plan designed for your skin’s seasonal needs.

10. Stay Consistent and Listen to Your Skin

The key to glowing winter skin is consistency. Even small daily habits—like staying hydrated, using SPF, and moisturizing regularly, make a big difference over time.

If you experience persistent dryness, irritation, or breakouts, it may be time for a professional evaluation. A dermatologist can identify underlying conditions (like eczema or rosacea) and adjust your routine accordingly.

Ready to Refresh Your Skin This Season?

Your skincare routine should evolve with the seasons. At Premier Dermatology & Aesthetics in New York City, Dr. Adam Nabatian provides expert, evidence-based guidance to help your skin thrive through every weather change.

Book online: Premier Dermatology & Aesthetics

Let your skin glow all winter long, with care that’s as refined and resilient as you are.