It’s officially the time of year when big puffy coats, warm blankets, and humidifiers have to come out where I live. It’s bitterly cold, snowy, and very dry – not so great for my skin!
Before we get into my winter skincare routine, I’d like to touch on my skin type and concerns. I have combination skin and tend to get oily in my T-zone. I also break out in these areas throughout the month. However, during winter I struggle with dryness as well. So, my two biggest goals right now are to hydrate my skin while simultaneously controlling my acne. This routine is how I do it!
My 2024 Winter Skincare Routine
1. Cleanser: Philosophy purity made simple one-step facial cleanser
I’ve been using this cleanser since I was a teenager, and it’s the only one I use day, night, winter, spring, summer, and fall. It’s my favorite! I use the FOREO Luna Mini 2 to cleanse my face, which I talked about in my 2023 Skincare Favorites.
2. Acne spot treatment: Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Spot Treatment and/or COSRX Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches
I use a 10% benzoyl peroxide spot treatment on any problem areas about 2-3 times a week, which I pick up from any Walmart, Target, or drugstore. I’ve been trying to minimize how often I use it during winter since it does dry my skin out a bit. However, it is really effective so I’m not leaving it out completely! I also use pimple patches (I love the COSRX ones!) to combat any particularly bad pimples on my face. I usually put them on at night and sleep with them on.
3. Essence: COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
This snail mucin essence by COSRX was one of my favorite skincare products of 2023. It is super hydrating, which I appreciate during the dry winter months. I typically use about 2-3 pumps of it both morning and night. I always make sure my face is damp when I apply this product, as it seems to help it absorb better and lock in more moisture. If I’ve put on pimple patches before this step and my face is dry, I usually re-dampen my face with a bit of water before applying this essence.
4. Serum: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Oil Control Serum
I discovered this serum after it gained popularity on social media, and I have been using it for about 2 years. I really like it as it’s non-irritating and, likely in conjunction with other products I’m using, has helped me control my acne.
5. Eye Cream: Bioassance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream
I picked up a holiday edition two-pack of this eye cream last year, which was a great deal. I’m almost through the second pot of eye cream, so they lasted me quite a while. This is definitely a very hydrating formula, which is great for winter. I typically use this only once a day in the morning. I like having extra hydrated under eyes before putting on makeup.
6. Moisturizer: COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All in One Cream, First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, or COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream
I use a few different moisturizers during winter. The Snail 92 All in Once Cream was also a skincare favorite of mine during 2023. I typically use it in the morning, as it sits well under makeup while still being very hydrating.
I will use the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream day or night. It’s also a very hydrating and soothing option if my skin is feeling irritated. However, I only use the fragrance-free version on my face!
The Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream by COSRX, another 2023 skincare favorite, is very rich and extremely hydrating. It leaves me looking very dewy, so I only use it at night.
7. Sunscreen: Native Mineral Sunscreen
Can’t forget sunscreen! I’ve tried quite a few different sunscreens and have found that my face is extremely sensitive to chemical ones. So, I use a mineral sunscreen by Native. It is fragrance-free and doesn’t leave too harsh of a white cast on my skin. I have also used their Brightening Facial Moisturizer – SPF 30 as a sunscreen, which includes 20% zinc oxide. Obviously, I only apply sunscreen in the morning!
That's it!
This is the routine that has helped me keep my skin moisturized, while also controlling my acne. However, this is just what has been working for me, and may not work for you and your skin at all. Everyone’s skin is different!
2 Responses
So true Camy, not everyone’s skin types are the same, that is most def. I have TRIED, and still am trying SO many different skin serums, oils, creams, etc over time to see what works best with my skin type as well.
I have a combination skin type too, it’s changed– and still continues to change through out time. Which is the norm, not only as we age as humans, but, being female as well!
I’ve gone on and off to the dermatologist over the years since I was about 19 I think. Now, here I am at another dermatologist again, yrs later! Lots has changed of course, in my life- over time, since going to the dermatologist the first time around.
Good write up, there are TOO many different skin care products out there on the market I’ve been wanting to try out and test.. I definitely would like to go to a Sephora and take my time looking around!
Many questions about snail skin products and other ones!! I’ve heard many things, I’m all about going for facials and doing spa like things like that! How very relaxing and rejuvenating 🧖🏼♀️ 😊 I’ve enjoyed the beauty tool I was gifted from you girls this Christmas, the steaming face spa!!! I should really be using it right now, that would help me breathe better w/my current sinus infection that’s going on
Yes, there’s so, so many different products to try!! I’m glad you liked the write up and that you’re liking the steamer! I have one and love it too 😁