Winter Skincare Favorites

It hasn’t really started to feel like winter until recently. The temperatures are dropping and my skin is feeling it! I’ve been determined to continue focusing on skincare and maintaining a healthy routine. Here are some skincare products I’ve been using to successfully combat the effects of cold weather:

Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil: I use coconut oil to cleanse my face year-round, but I find myself heavily depending on it in the wintertime. When I wear makeup and cleanse my face, I like using coconut oil first to remove my eye makeup. Not only does coconut oil effectively get rid of all my eye makeup, it also helps to keep my eye area immensely hydrated and soft. I have very sensitive skin especially around my eyes (I sometimes get eczema in this area) and after cleansing with coconut oil, my eyes never feel dry or irritated. I’ve found other eye makeup removers that do a great job, but none are as moisturizing as coconut oil. Plus, this jar of cold-pressed, virgin organic coconut oil lasts for so long, is super affordable (find it at Whole Foods or online), and can be used for many purposes (as a cleanser, moisturizer, hair oil, and even for baking). I always have to have a jar of this with me! Coconut oil can be heavy to use and to remove but I like the extra moisturizing effect it has on my face especially during the winter. $12.99 for 15 fl oz, Abe’s Market or iHerb. Use my code: BLG494 to get $5 off your iHerb purchase! New iHerb members only.

Pai Camellia & Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser: I love trying different facial cleansers but this creamy, gentle cleanser from Pai is a tried and true favorite. I’ve raved about it many times before, read more about it in my full review here. I prefer using cream cleansers as opposed to oil-based cleansers in the winter as my skin needs a heavier layer of hydration in colder weather. My sensitive skin gets very dry and flakey during the winter and I find that the this Cleanser keeps my face extremely moisturized and effectively cleansing the skin without striping my skin. If I had to splurge on a facial cleanser for year-round use, it’s definitely this one! I’ve raved about this cleanser many times before, read my full review here. $50 for 3.5 fl oz or $70 for 6.8 fl oz, Pai Skincare or Spirit Beauty Lounge.

Badger Seabuckthorn Face Cleansing Oil*: Perhaps the exception to my rule of using less oil-based cleansers in the winter has recently been applied to this product from Badger. One of my favorite ingredients to use on my dry, sensitive skin is sea buckthorn and I’ve found that this cleanser provides a really deep cleanse while also leaving my skin very supple. While I find that this cleanser is a bit heavier in texture to work with, I like using it during colder months because I find that it definitely locks in moisture and leaves behind a nice, hydrating layer on my skin. I still like to use coconut oil first to remove any heavy makeup before using this cleanser, but I find that this product does do a good job of removing any extra grime on my face and primes my face for moisturizer! If you have dry skin and are looking for a gentle and hydrating oil-based cleanser, I definitely recommend this. $16.20 for 2 fl oz, Badger or iHerb.

Pai Skincare Rosehip BioRegenerate Rapid Radiance Mask*: While I believe in the power of applying facial masks regularly, lately I’ve been straying away, especially from powder masks as they cause my dry skin to become more irritated in the winter. I can’t deal with facial masks that make my skin feel tight and irritated. The only facial mask that I’ve been constantly using now is Pai’s Rosehip BioRegenerate Rapid Radiance Mask due to the creamy, hydrating formula. Not only does this mask detoxify and refresh my face, it also keeps my skin super moisturized. I also like that because this is a thick cream mask, the application is easier and also less messy. I’m such a slob when mixing loose powder masks! This facial mask is also great for use during the winter as this leaves behind a nice hydrating layer on the skin even after washing away. $54.55 for 2.5 fl oz, Spirit Beauty Lounge or Pai Skincare.

ilike Carotene Essentials Moisturizer*: I’ve loved using this creamy, sweet-smelling moisturizer since the summer as it is a beneficial product to use after sun exposure. The soothing, ultra-hydrating results also make this a great day cream to use during the winter. This moisturizer is packed with tons of great ingredients that have helped even out my skin tone and reveal super smooth, glowing skin. Formulated with a blend of carrots, calendula, sorb apple, and cantaloupe, this moisturizer also features antioxidants which block free-radical damage and salicylic acid to rid skin of dead and damaged cells. Citrus-scented, creamy, and supremely soft, this moisturizer has been a great addition to maintain my skincare routine especially transitioning into colder temperatures. This rich moisturizer has helped nourish my skin daily and maintain smooth, hydrated skin. $72 for 1.7 fl oz, DermStore.

Skincando Combat-Ready Balm*: As soon as the temperatures drop my first instinct is to bring out my trusted heavy-duty skincare products. Skincado Combat-Ready Balm is my favorite remedy for dry, cracked skin during the winter. The Combat-Ready Balm is a multi-use balm with all-natural ingredients like coconut oil, black tea, and shea butter that provide extreme hydration and keeps my skin from being raw and red, especially after blowing my nose all season long. This lightweight and fast-absorbing balm is great to use both during they day and at night. I especially love applying this to my face when I know I’ll be outside in freezing temperatures and wind. I like that the Combat-Ready Balm has more of a whipped, cream texture as opposed to your average solid and hard balm. This is definitely easier to work into skin and is so gentle and soothing. I plan on bringing this with me on my upcoming annual family ski trip because I know I’ll be outdoors braving the weather. I talked about my love for Skincando in the past (here and here) and I was finally able to meet Skincando’s lovely founder, Sara at the Indie Beauty Expo this year. $6 for .125 oz, $27 for 2oz, $65 for 8oz, Skincando or Revescent.

MAHALO Skincare Rare Indigo Balm*: Lately I’ve been gravitating towards using facial balms more. I’ve been trying to hold on to my sample of MAHALO’s Rare Indigo Balm but I’m afraid I’m down to the last bits. (I first talked about it here.) The Rare Indigo Balm is definitely an exquisite balm that has really improved the texture and tone of my face. Besides from a beautiful, unique light violet-blue color, this balm has a lovely, soft lightweight texture that melts into your skin as you apply. Everything about this balm exudes luxury: from the gorgeous packaging, the 29 high-performance natural ingredients, to the tantalizing scent. However, the amazing results I’ve seen from using this balm definitely justifies the expensive price-tag. My skin looks more even, bright, and is left feeling very soft and hydrated. I like using Rare Indigo on spots where I know my skin is the driest (under my nose, my forehead,) and also as an all-over moisturizer. This deliciously-sweet balm is addicting and great for regular use all year-round. Unfortunately, I’ll have to save up my money to buy a full-size version of this, but it is definitely worth it. $150 for 1 fl oz, MAHALO.

Badger Seabuckthorn Face Oil *: Compared to other facial oils, this naturally fruity and floral-scented serum absorbs quickly but leaves my face feeling soft and hydrated all night. I prefer using facial serums at night and this makes for a great nighttime serum. Rich in vitamins and fatty acids, this facial oil contains certified organic ingredients that leave my skin moisturized, smooth, and radiant. I’ll always favor sea buckthorn (full of nutrients and fatty acids) as a beneficial ingredient for my dry, sensitive skin. I’ve seen great results from using this serum in improving dark spots, reducing irritability, and maintaining smooth, moisturized skin. The scent is also so delicious I could drink it! This is one facial oil that even my fiance thinks smells wonderful (and that’s hard to come by). $14.39 for 1 fl oz, Badger or iHerb.

Soap bars: I haven’t used body wash in awhile (save for trying out this new product from Ursa Major) and I find that soap bars are definitely more hydrating and deep-cleansing. I’ve found that the natural ingredients and essential oils included in soap bars help to lock in moisture and condition my skin even after I use them in the shower. Now as a soap bar convert, I always have a bunch in storage but a few brands that I always come back to. In terms of quality, natural ingredients and lovingly-made, handcrafted products, my favorite artisan soap brands are: Osmia Organics, Apoterra Skincare, and Meow Meow Tweet. I’ve been enjoying the affordable and wonderfully formulated soap bars from Acure Organics, Dr. Bronner’s, and Shea Moisture. Recently, I’ve discovered the wonders of my local discount stores such as T.J. Maxx, Marshall’s and Home Goods where I’ve found so many lovely natural and organic soap brands (Dr. Bronner’s, Shea Moisture, Pangea Organics, Deep Steep, and more) for a sliver of the price!

SheaMoisture Body Butter: During the winter my skin craves creams and lotions as opposed to body oils. While I love body oils, most are not heavy enough nor quickly absorbing for my extra-dry and sensitive skin during the winter. Plus, I get pretty lazy when the temperatures drop and sometimes creams are just quicker (and less messier) for me to apply. While I’ve found some really amazing, high-end creams to treat my finicky winter skin, I’ve been on a quest to find a more affordably priced, widely available body lotion. There are definitely a lot of options out there to try but I’ve been really enjoying the SheaMoisture Body Butters. Lightweight, creamy, and fast-absorbing, these organic lotions contain shea butter, coconut oil, essential oils, and many other natural skin-benefiting nutrients. These body butters go on smooth and provide my skin with lasting moisture so that I never have to reapply and never find my skin feeling flakey. I usually purchase the 6 fl oz squeeze tubes from Target and these do last me a while and are easy to travel with. I’d rather SheaMoisture offered this in a larger size with a pump applicator though. My current favorite scent is the Coconut & Hibiscus: so fresh and sweet-smelling, reminiscent of a summer day at the beach. $8.99-$9.99 (depending on scent) at Target, Harmon.

Lotus Wei Joy Juice Balancing Serum: The winter blues are a real thing and when I find myself needing a little something to pick my spirits up, I always gravitate towards Joy Juice from Lotus Wei. This sweet-scented Balancing Serum contains organic essentials oils, hand-collected flower essences, vitamin e, and a gemstone essence to uplift the spirits and to release “Seriousness, feeling the weight of responsibilities, worry, overcomplicating things, repressing your inner child”. Definitely something I need in my life now! I massage this serum into my pulse points and the back of my neck to experience an instant boost in my mood. I enjoy this scent because it is sweet, floral, and reminiscent of bright, sunny days. Not only does it lighten my spirit, it makes my body smell lovely. Don’t get me wrong, there are more things than just a serum that determines your well-being and inner feelings, but I think Joy Juice definitely contributes to kickstarting happier vibes during my day. There are also different forms of Joy Juice available (mist, elixir, mist, anointing oil) and different “moods” or scents to try, I can’t wait to try all the Lotus Wei remedies! $50 for 50ml, Lotus Wei or The Detox Market.

ILIA Beauty Balmy Nights: Exfoliating my lips is something I prioritize in the winter because my lips reach an all-time record of dryness. It’s also a skincare step that I find myself least excited for. I’ve always been interested in this exfoliator-meets-lip balm-stick from ILIA but wasn’t sure if it was a totally necessary purchase. I decided to take the plunge when I saw this product on discount at EcoDivaBeauty. Now I know, this is one thing I definitely need in life! Balmy Nights contains tiny granules of volcanic stone powder, which gently exfoliate and leave behind seriously smooth lips. Not only do I love the amazing exfoliating power of this product, the added moisturizing benefits from ingredients like shea butter, grape seed oil, and castor seed oil result in lasting hydration and softness on lips, almost as if I was wearing lip balm. My lips have never felt so instantly smooth and hydrated from any other lip exfoliator and it is so convenient to have this product all in a stick form! Though I was hesitant about the price, I think it is definitely worth it and will definitely be buying more of these in the future. $26 for 0.14oz, The Detox Market.

Hurraw! lip balms: I’ve been in love with these organic lip balms since Heidi from Philtre introduced me, and I cannot say enough good things about them. Hurraw! Balms are formulated with simple and pure ingredients, available in a variety of lovely scents, and are actually quite affordable. The shape of this lip balm is also nice because it helps dispense product evenly to lips. The brand also set out to make this lip balm one that never melts or warps (even in hot environments) and I can attest to the fact that my Hurraw! balms have never been altered whether I’m in scorching heat or immense cold. A natural lip balm that is extremely moisturizing and stays intact everywhere you go? That’s definitely a major plus in my book. Hurraw! Balms, $3.69 – $4.99, iHerb or The Detox Market. Use my code: BLG494 to get $5 off your iHerb purchase! New iHerb members only.

True Organic of Sweden, All You Need Is Me cream*: This luxe, intensive cream is a multi-use skincare product that is a new winter must-have for me. Not only for moisturizing, this cream can be used to protect again weather and wind, soothe irritation, relieve minor sunburn, heal minor scrapes and more. Formulated with concentrated natural and organic ingredients, All You Need Is Me is a clear cream with a more weighty texture, reminiscent of Vaseline, which provides a skin with a thick protective layer. (Please do NOT use Vaseline, there are so many other amazing natural options!) It’s hard to believe this effective product only contains 4 ingredients: Castor Oil, Beeswax, Olive Oil, Shea butter, Vitamin E and Blueberry seed Oil! This cream not only works quickly, it provides powerful hydration and protection against harsh weather. I love using this product on my dry hands and elbows, nose, lips, and cuticles. All You Need Is Me sinks into skin quickly and leaves behind soft, supple skin. Due to it’s more substantial texture, this cream takes a bit more effort to rub into skin but I do like how fast-acting and healing it is. The chic design and lightweight tube packaging is also convenient to travel with and it is completely made out of sugarcane, way more sustainable than plastic! $19 – $35, The Detox Market.

Weleda creams: The one hand cream that’s a mainstay in my purse is Weleda’s Sea Buckthorn Hand Cream. (Yes, again with Sea Buckthorn!) This cream is perfect for keeping my dry skin moisturized and it is so creamy and lightweight, I can easily slather it on whenever I like. The scent is also lovely with the fresh, sweet notes of orange and grapefruit essential oils. Sea buckthorn is full of many skin-benefitting nutrients and fatty acids which help deeply moisturize skin as well as smooth and strengthen hands. What I love about Weleda products are that a little goes a long way, I’ve had this tube of Sea Buckthorn Hand Cream for almost a year now and I’m finally almost finished with it. I also love Weleda’s Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion. On a recent trip to TJ Maxx, I found an awesome Weleda holiday gift set on discount that included a tube of Skin Food and a lip balm. (Now available on Amazon.) Weleda’s Skin Food is one of their most popular 100% natural creams and a green beauty cult favorite. In fact, January 19th marked 90 years since Weleda created Skin Food! This is a heavier cream product that can be used all over the body but I’m going to try this product next and keep it in my purse as a hand cream and moisturizer. The best part? You can easily find Weleda at most drugstores, Target, or Whole Food Markets. Sea Buckthorn Hand Cream: $8.99 for 1 fl oz, Vitacost, Skin Food: $8.99 for 1 fl oz, Vitacost or all products at Weleda.

Have you tried any of these products before? What are your favorite winter skincare products?

 

*Indicates products that were provided for my consideration. As always these are my own and honest opinions. This post contains some affiliate links. Please see my disclaimer for more details about my affiliate and press policies.