Winter is here, and so is the dryness.
We all love the drop in temperature—it’s finally time for jackets, weddings, and hot coffee. But while your wardrobe loves the winter, your skin often struggles with it.
In Pakistan, the winter air is notoriously dry. Whether you are facing the dusty winds in Karachi or the freezing cold in the North, the drop in humidity can deplete the moisture in your skin barrier. The result? Skin that feels tight, looks dull, and shows fine lines more prominently than usual.
If your usual moisturizer just isn't cutting it, you might be missing the most important step: Hydration.
Here is a breakdown of why your skin changes in winter and a simple approach to fixing it.
1. Dry vs. Dehydrated: What’s the Difference?
Before you pile on heavy creams, it is helpful to understand what your skin is actually asking for.
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Dry Skin lacks oil. It typically feels rough and flaky.
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Dehydrated Skin lacks water. It feels tight, looks dull, and might even be oily on the surface but dry underneath.
Most people in winter suffer from dehydration. The solution isn't necessarily just heavy oils; it is pumping water back into the skin cells. This is where "humectants" (ingredients that grab water) become essential.
2. The First Step: Ditch the "Squeaky Clean" Feeling
In winter, you cannot afford to strip your skin. If your face feels tight immediately after washing, your cleanser might be too harsh for the season.
A good winter strategy is to switch to a gentle cleanser and immediately follow up with a hydrating toner while your skin is still damp.
What to look for: Avoid toners with high alcohol content as they dry you out further. Instead, look for ingredients like Coconut Milk Extract or Aloe Vera. These ingredients, found in products like our [WAVE Hydrating Toner], help soothe that immediate "tight" feeling after a wash and prep the skin to absorb more moisture.
3. The Hero Ingredient: Hyaluronic Acid
If there is one ingredient that is highly recommended for winter, it is Hyaluronic Acid. It is famous for its ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, pulling moisture from the air and holding it into your skin.
How to use it: Hyaluronic Acid works best when paired with antioxidants. For example, formulas that combine it with fruit extracts—like the Grape Extract found in the [PULP Hydrating Barrier Serum]—do double duty. They hydrate the skin to plump up fine lines while offering antioxidant protection against environmental stress.
Pro Tip: Always apply hydrating serums on damp skin to seal in maximum moisture.
4. Don't Forget On-the-Go Hydration
Winter dryness doesn't stop when you leave the house. Heaters in offices and cars can dry your skin out within hours.
A simple trick is to keep a mist handy. A quick spritz of Rose water or a formulation like the [PLUSH Mist + Toner] can refresh the skin midday without disturbing your routine.
A Simple Winter Routine
If you are looking to adjust your regimen for the cold weather, this is the dermatologist-recommended order of application:
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to suffer through months of flaky, dull skin. By understanding your skin's need for hydration versus oil, and layering the right ingredients, you can keep your skin comfortable and healthy all season long.
