How to Get Glowing Skin in Winter

To maintain radiant winter skin, you need a strategic blend of hydration, exfoliation, barrier protection, and SPF. Learn how to combine StackedSkincare’s tools and serums with lifestyle adjustments to keep your glow—even in freezing temperatures.

The Truth About Winter Skin

Winter might bring cozy sweaters and pretty snow, but it also brings cold, dry air that can strip your skin, leaving it dull, flaky, and irritated. The key is hydration, gentle exfoliation, and protecting your barrier.

1. Know the Difference: Dry vs. Dehydrated Skin

Dehydrated Skin

Lacks water. It feels tight, dull, and can happen to any skin type—even oily.
What helps: Drink water, eat hydrating foods (like cucumbers and watermelon), and use humectants like HA Serum to draw in moisture.

Dry Skin

Lacks oil. It feels flaky, rough, and tight—especially in the cold.
What helps: Use moisture-sealing products like Microbiome Moisturizer, rich in lipids and emollients.

2. Cleanse Without Stripping

Use the Prebiotic Gel Cleanser to gently wash away impurities while respecting your microbiome and barrier.

3. Exfoliate Wisely

Dead skin buildup blocks moisture and creates dullness. Over-exfoliating in winter can cause irritation. Exfoliate for glow, not damage:

• Dermaplaning Tool: Removes peach fuzz and dull buildup instantly. Use once per week.
• TCA Multi-Acid Face Peel: A gentle, no-downtime peel with AHAs, BHAs, and TCA to exfoliate deeper layers. Use three to five times per week.
• TCA Body Peel: For legs, arms, and anywhere that gets scaly, rough, or uneven. Use a maximum of twice per week.
• Tip: Always apply EGF Serum after peels to support skin healing and reduce redness.

4. Master Your Moisture Layers

Hydrating winter skin requires more than a single cream. Combine:

• Humectant: HA Hydrating Serum to draw water into the skin.
• Emollient: Microbiome Moisturizer with ceramides and astaxanthin to rebuild your barrier and protect from oxidative damage.
• Face Oil (Optional): Add a few drops of Shiunko Blush Face Oil to lock in moisture and soothe irritation.

5. Never Skip Sunscreen (Even in Winter)

UV rays remain active year-round. Snow reflects sunlight, increasing exposure.

Use SPF 30 or higher daily.
Reapply every two hours if you are outside.
Layer Microbiome Moisturizer under SPF for antioxidant protection from astaxanthin.

6. Smart Lifestyle Swaps

• Avoid hot showers because they strip your barrier.
• Use a humidifier, especially at night.
• Eat warm, skin-loving foods like avocados, sweet potatoes, and fatty fish.
• Drink water and herbal teas to stay hydrated even in cold months.

7. Winter Routine to Follow

Morning

• Cleanser
• HA Hydrating Serum
• Microbiome Moisturizer
• SPF 30 or higher
• Optional: Ice Roller for puffiness and calm

Evening (Two to Three Times per Week)

• Cleanser
• TCA Multi-Acid Face Peel
• EGF Serum or Advanced Retinol Serum (alternate nights)
• Microbiome Moisturizer
• Shiunko Blush Face Oil

Body

• TCA Body Peel (maximum twice per week)
• Hydrating Body Serum to lock in moisture and leave skin soft

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exfoliate in the winter?

Yes, but be gentle. Stick with peels and dermaplaning. Avoid gritty scrubs.

Do I need sunscreen if it’s cloudy?

Absolutely. UVA rays penetrate clouds, and snow reflects sunlight.

My skin feels tight but not flaky. What does that mean?

You are dehydrated. Use HA Serum and drink more water.

How do I stop my skin from getting red after a peel?

Follow peels with EGF Serum to calm inflammation.

Do I need moisturizer if I use a serum?

Yes. Serums pull in water; moisturizers seal it in.