My skin feels winter on a deep level. If I’m not sleeping with a humidifier, it gets tight, dull, and cranky. Over the years, I have found a few products that help almost as much as that humidifier at night, and I keep coming back to them. Every single one of these has been purchased by me more than once, and some many times (looking at you Working Hands Cream, which I found during the pandemic when we were washing our hands a gazillion times a day). Each of these products has earned its spot in my winter skincare routine because they actually make a noticeable difference.

The Best Skincare Products for Dry Winter Skin (That Actually Work)

As I get older I have learned that hydrated skin makes everything look better. Makeup goes on smoother, fine lines look softer, and my face doesn’t get that tired, flaky situation by lunchtime. These are the products I recommend to my mom, my sister, my friends, and basically anyone who asks because they actually work. They are worth the investment and they have saved my winter skin for years.

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1. Moroccanoil Night Body Serum

Body Serum

Technically meant for nighttime, I use this serum morning (sometimes noon) and night. It’s much more effective than regular lotion because the thick serum absorbs quickly without feeling greasy, and my skin immediately looks noticeably more hydrated. I especially love it on my legs after shaving when they feel dry and flaky. It also gives my shoulders and chest a smoother, more even look, almost like a soft-focus filter, with no color transfer or mess. (And the fragrance is ridiculously good.) If interested, I covered my 5 favorite body oils, here.

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2. Working Hands Cream

Hand Cream

Like I said, I found this hand cream during the pandemic when my hands were so dry and tight from all that hand washing and I’ve used it ever since. Nothing, and I mean nothing, has worked better than this stuff. I also started using it on my feet before bed (there is a foot version, but I find this one hydrating enough) and I have noticed a huge difference. I also just realized there is a lip version with SPF 35 and I am absolutely trying that next.

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3. Colleen Rothschild Face Oil N°9

Face Oil

When my skin is super dry, irritated, or just in need of extra hydration, Colleen Rothschild’s Face Oil No. 9 is a lifesaver. It is a can’t-live-without product in the winter, but I use it year-round. Sometimes I layer it under my moisturizer or mix a little in depending on how dry my skin feels. It goes on smoothly and absorbs completely within a few minutes for skin that is extra hydrated, not greasy. (I rub any excess into my hands and cuticles and love how soft they feel after.)

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4. Philosophy The Microdelivery Resurfacing Peel

2-Step Peel

I actually bought this for the first time (years ago now) because of the glowing reviews (ha!) it received. After reading them I had to try it for myself, and I’ve now purchased it again and again because I love how it makes my skin glow and brightens my complexion. Even the experience of using it is calming. The first step is to gently massage the resurfacing crystals onto skin and the second is to apply a layer of the lactic and salicylic acid activating gel on top, which creates a warm, spa-like sensation (not stinging). Leave it on for 2-3 minutes, rinse, and you have instantly smoother, brighter skin.

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5. Lancôme Absolue The Eye Cream

Eye Cream

I first bought this eye cream during a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale I don’t know how many years ago, but along with Lancôme’s Ultimate Recovery Serum (below) and their Revitalizing & Brightening Rich Cream Facial Moisturizer (#8 below – also both purchased during the sale) I never would have purchased it at full price because it felt so expensive. But after using them for a few months I was completely hooked. Worth every penny based on what they do for my skin.

This anti-aging eye cream targets fine lines around the eyes, helps with undereye bags, and makes both concealer and eye shadow go on more smoothly. I love this stuff and reviewers clearly do too. (It has a rating of 4.7 stars from over 900 reviews on Nordstrom, and 95% of reviewers on Sephora would recommend it.)

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6. Lancôme Génifique Ultimate Recovery Serum

Serum

Another favorite from Lancôme for both me and reviewers, this serum is in both my AM and PM routine. It hydrates, smooths, and makes my skin look brighter right away. Fine lines and pores look softer and my skin feels plump instead of tight. There is a whole scientific story behind the ingredients that I will not pretend to fully explain, but it supports barrier repair and skin surface renewal which is exactly what my winter skin needs. If you are into the science, the product page has all the details.

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7. Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Face Wash

Face Wash

For years I used a face wash that targeted acne and made my skin feel SO tight afterward. In my mind that was what “clean” felt like, because I had also tried gentle, hydrating cleansers that never seemed to actually remove my makeup. Then I tried this face wash from Elemis, which feels like the best of both worlds. It targets dry, dull skin (aka mine in the winter) and gently sloughs off dead skin cells without stripping moisture. I do still use eye makeup remover, but this takes care of the rest of my face without leaving it feeling desperate for moisturizer.

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8. Lancôme Absolue Revitalizing & Brightening Rich Cream Facial Moisturizer

Moisturizer

And finally, this anti-wrinkle winter moisturizer is the one that actually hydrates my dry winter skin and keeps it smooth. I need a thicker cream that hydrates without leaving a greasy layer, and this one makes my skin look and feel better the moment it goes on and visibly reduces wrinkles and fine lines over time. It has a luxurious, silky texture and my skin drinks it in for deep hydration and that plump, firmer look you want from a rich cream. It also helps support the moisture barrier, which is key when dealing with dry winter skin and indoor heat. With consistent use my complexion looks smoother, more even, and less tired. It can be too heavy for me in the summer (that’s when I switch to Colleen Rothschild’s Sheer Renewal Cream), but it is perfection for dry winter months.

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Winter is rough on my skin, but these eight products have made it so much easier to deal with. I have tried a lot of winter skincare over the years and these are the ones that stuck because they actually help with dry winter skin, dehydration, fine lines, and that dull look that shows up when the temps drop. If your skin is feeling tight, flaky, or irritated this season, hopefully this helps you find a few new favorites that keep your winter skin hydrated, smooth, and comfortable.

The one thing I am still hunting for is a deeply hydrating face mask for dry winter skin. If you have a favorite you use once or twice a week, send it my way because I’m still searching.

XOXO,

Scotti