Winter Skincare Arsenal | How I Protect and Nourish My Skin

Between heading out on dog walks, running errands around town, shovelling snow and scraping ice off the car, and generally breathing drier air from central heating (the joys of living in Canada, eh?), my skin always takes a beating this time of year. I protect my face and hands as best as I can from the cold and harsh wind with warm clothing (hello balaklavas, tuques, scarves, thick gloves and heat-holding socks), but I still cannot escape dealing with dry skin. With frigid weather settling in, I've brought my reparative skincare must-haves to the front of my vanity. These are products I have used for the past few years, and I can attest that they have made a difference in keeping my skin less irritated from the elements.

LIP CARE

Dry, cracked lips are a pain to deal with, and these three products have really helped both treat and prevent future damage. Before heading out in the mornings, I apply a thin layer of the Sephora Collection Moisturizing Lip Balm in Coconut. As it isn't too thick and doesn't leave an overly greasy or sticky residue, it is perfect when I need to cover my face with a scarf just a short while following application.

Since I keep it light in the AM, my PM routine consists of the Sephora Collection Exfoliating Lip Scrub in Dragonfruit to slough off any dry skin (and it isn't too abrasive), followed by the Lawless Forget the Filler Overnight Lip-Plumping Mask*, which I cannot live without. It provides instant relief as soon as I apply it and keeps working its magic overnight. I am partial to the Cherry Vanilla flavour, but you really can't go wrong with any of these, as the comfort it provides my lips this time of year is unmatched!

FACE HYDRATION

I seek hydrating products year-round, as I find them especially beneficial for their anti-aging effects, especially in the colder months. Facial mists and hyaluronic acid serums are staples in my routine, and I've been really enjoying the La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water Face Mist* and their Hyalu B5 Serum*. Since I have more reactive skin, going from warm to cold can wreak havoc on my skin, and this duo is very soothing and protective when applied as the first two steps of my morning and evening routines.

UNDER EYE CARE

Sticking to hydration, since my eye area is exposed no matter what I wear outside, I like to show it extra care. A few times a week, I reach for the Heimish Bulgarian Rose Water Hydrogel Eye Patch*. They instantly plump the undereye area and help diminish the appearance of my dark circles. Each night, I apply a moisturizing eye cream, and I've been seeing great results with the Herbivore Moon Dew*. It contains bakuchiol (a retinol alternative) and peptides, making it a great anti-aging product in my skincare arsenal.

MOISTURIZING

In the winter months, I look for face creams and balms that will provide quick repair. The Reversa 5 Ceramides + Prebiotic Repairing Cream*, which I tend to reach for in the morning, is more lightweight. It has more of a milky texture and a little goes a long way. The Paula's Choice Rescue & Repair Intensive Moisturizer* is also fantastic for dry, sensitive skin. When dealing with more stubborn dry patches, I like to use the Prequel Skin Utility Ointment or the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 Cream*. They are both fantastic at relieving irritated skin overnight.

HAND CARE

My trusty O'Keeffe's Working Hands Cream has been a bedside staple for years. You only need a small amount, and it sinks into the skin quickly without that greasy feeling. In my bag, I keep the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Hand Cream for quick relief on the go.