Winter can bring out the worst in our skin. Dryness, flakiness, sensitivity, redness – the whole works. If these issues suddenly show up as temperatures drop, it’s likely not your skin “acting up.” It’s your skin barrier asking for support.

Your barrier (more commonly referred to by estheticians as the hydrolipidic barrier) is your skin’s built-in bodyguard. This thin, protective film keeps moisture sealed in and helps block out irritants like cold air, dry heat and pollution. When it’s compromised, water escapes more easily and skin becomes reactive, tight and uncomfortable.

Barrier support always starts with a professionally curated at-home agenda, but when winter dryness hits fast, a well-formulated moisturizer can be the most immediate and impactful place to start.

Below, our estheticians break down why moisturizers matter so much in winter, and which formulas truly deliver when skin needs relief most.

Why moisturizers help your skin barrier 

Moisturizers do more than soften skin. When chosen correctly, they actively support barrier function by:

• Reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) so hydration stays where it belongs
• Replenishing lipids that strengthen the skin’s protective film
• Soothing inflammation and sensitivity triggered by cold weather stress
• Improving skin’s ability to repair itself over time

In winter, lower humidity and indoor heat accelerate moisture loss. Without daily barrier support, even healthy skin can become dry, tight or reactive. The right moisturizer helps restore balance by reinforcing what your skin naturally does best: protect and retain hydration.

The moisturizers estheticians recommend for dry winter skin relief

really rich moisture
Best for: Extremely dry, tight or depleted skin

When skin feels persistently dry (no matter how much you apply), estheticians often reach for really rich moisture. This deeply replenishing formula delivers long-lasting hydration while helping rebuild the lipid structure of the barrier.

It’s rich without feeling heavy, making it ideal for skin that struggles to hold moisture in winter. Consistent users often notice reduced tightness, improved comfort and smoother texture.

Why estheticians love it:

• Deeply replenishes moisture and lipids
• Helps skin feel comfortable and resilient again
• Perfect for dry skin that struggles in colder months or arid climates

crucial moisture
Best for: Dehydration lines 

In winter, cold air, wind and dry indoor heat pull water from the skin, leaving it dehydrated rather than truly dry. This lack of water can cause fine dehydration lines to appear more noticeable – often mistaken for new wrinkles.

Estheticians reach for crucial moisture when skin looks crepey, lined or dull due to dehydration. This lightweight yet effective formula floods skin with hydration while helping calm stress and support barrier recovery, without the weight of richer creams.

Why estheticians love it:

• Rehydrates winter skin to visibly soften dehydration lines
• Helps skin look smoother, plumper and more refreshed
• Supports barrier balance without heaviness

barrier fix daily hydrator 
Best for: Everyday barrier support 

For those who want consistent protection against winter stressors, barrier fix daily hydrator helps strengthen the barrier before dryness escalates.

This daily moisturizer focuses on long-term resilience, supporting hydration, comfort and barrier function with continued use. Estheticians know it layers well in professional-recommended routines and is especially ideal for sensitive skin types. 

Why estheticians love it:

• Reinforces barrier health day after day
• Helps skin stay hydrated and balanced in cold weather
• Ideal for maintaining comfort all winter long

FAQs: Winter skin + moisturizers

What causes dry skin in winter?

Cold outdoor air, low humidity and dry indoor heat pull moisture from the skin, weakening the hydrolipidic barrier and increasing water loss.

What is the hydrolipidic barrier?

It’s a thin, protective film made of water, oils, sweat and skin cells that helps keep moisture in and irritants out.

Why does my skin feel tight or itchy in winter?

When the barrier is compromised, moisture escapes more easily, leading to tightness, itchiness and overall discomfort.

How do moisturizers support the skin barrier?

They help reduce moisture loss, replenish essential lipids and support the skin’s natural repair process.

Why does my usual moisturizer stop working in cold weather?

Winter conditions increase moisture loss, so skin often needs richer or more targeted barrier support than it does in warmer months.

Should I change my moisturizer with the seasons?

Estheticians often recommend adjusting formulas seasonally to better match changes in climate and your skin’s evolving needs.