The changing seasons can really affect the condition of your skin, especially if it’s exposed to the elements or you live somewhere where there’s a big difference between seasons. You might find that in different months of the year, your skin feels dry, tight and compromised. It might look a little dull and lacking in luster too. Even oily skin can become dry in summer or winter.

The signs of dry skin that you might feel as you go from winter to spring are: flakiness, redness, rough texture, itchiness, irritation, cracks, stinging or burning sensations on your skin. These can vary in severity and might look different depending on the part of your body that’s affected or your skin tone. Dry skin doesn’t just affect your face either, it can affect your whole body.

If your skin has changed along with the seasons, it’s usually a sign to change up your skincare routine too. Using richer and more hydrating moisturisers can help your skin feel better and stop flaking, cracking or uncomfortable, chapped skin.

Why Your Skin Needs A Richer and Thicker Moisturizer

You need to replace and replenish the lost moisture in your skin by using a richer, thicker cream or an oil-based cream during that initial cold period of Spring. This means applying moisturizer generously and regularly throughout the day, paying particular attention to the drier parts of your face and body.

In addition, you might find that using gentle, creamy cleansers and sticking to gentle chemical exfoliants works better for you when your skin feels dry.

Dry skin is also more likely to show signs of aging earlier, and a damaged skin barrier means that redness, texture and flakes are more visible on the skin. These can all be managed by using the right skincare products especially richer moisturizers and oils.

There are three different types of moisturizer: humectants, occlusives and emollients. Each of these work slightly differently to hydrate the skin, and they can be used together for maximum hydrating benefits. Let’s break down how each one works and why you need them.

Humectants

Humectants pull water from the air and attract them to the skin’s surface. This offers the skin hydration where they need it. These are usually listed as amino acids, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera gel or ceramides.

Occlusives

Occlusives work to create a physical barrier that prevents water loss from the skin’s surface. This means that moisture is retained in the skin. Look for lanolin, oils, petrolatum and waxes on the label if you’re looking for an occlusive.

Emollients

Emollients tend to be creams, gels, lotions and ointments that help the skin to be more comfortable, help to restore the skin’s natural barrier and spread on the skin. Common emollients include shea butter, colloidal oatmeal and lipids.

Recommendations: Rich and Hydrating Moisturizers For Dry Skin As We Move From Winter To Spring

Looking for some recommendations on the best rich, hydrating moisturizers for very dry skin? We’ve got you covered with our recommendations of the best winter moisturizers for dry skin.

Best For Travel – Weleda Skin Food

Weleda Skin Food is a rich, intensive moisturizer that can be used for the face or the body. It’s truly nourishing, moisturizing and works extremely well to protect and repair the skin, banishing flakes along the way. Made with organic plant oils, this smells amazing, and a little definitely goes a long way.

It’s pretty inexpensive and comes in a range of sizes, the handy tube making it perfect for travel and applying on the go. Word of warning: it can be a little greasy, so you need to be careful with your clothing and if you’re prone to breakouts.

Welda Skin Food

Welda Skin Food

Best For Reapplication Throughout The DayCeraVe Moisturizing Cream Daily Moisturizer

This skincare fan favorite is a seriously budget friendly emollient that’s absolutely ideal for dried-out skin that needs plenty of TLC. It blends hyaluronic acid with three essential ceramides for the skin. This helps to rehydrate, rebalance and repair the skin.

It’s fragrance free, absorbs quickly and feels thick without being greasy.

Cerave Moisturizing Cream

Cerave Moisturizing Cream

Best Moisturizer to match your Personalized Skincare RoutineYours Moisturizer

If you’re looking for a moisturizer that will fit perfectly into the rest of your skincare routine, then Yours has you covered.

Our skin assessment will make sure your skin needs are matched with a skincare routine that includes a day cream and night cream so that your skin stays hydrated the whole day.

Yours Moisturizer

Yours Moisturizer

Best For Locking In MoistureElemis Superfood Facial Oil

If you really want to lock in moisture then you need an oil, and the Elemis SuperFood Facial Oil does just that. It’s filled with antioxidants that hydrate, protect and boost stressed-out skin. You can even layer it over a moisturizer for a huge hydration kick.

If you don’t like the feeling of an oil on your skin, or you struggle with breakouts, then this probably isn’t the product for you. It does smell absolutely amazing though, so if you do want to try out an oil then this is the one to pick up.

Elemis Superfood Facial Oil

Elemis Superfood Facial Oil

One Final Note…

Your skincare routine should definitely be seasonal – don’t wait until your skin is already dried-out and damaged to change it up. Using richer, thicker moisturizers and oils to keep your skin balanced and hydrated is a must if you have dry skin. Cracked, dry skin is no fun at any time of the year.

It’s also worth making some simple changes to your everyday routine to help your skin to balance. This could be taking cooler showers, turning down the heat at home or protecting your face when you’re out in the elements. Drinking enough water, getting enough sleep and eating a balanced diet can all help your skin. These easy steps can make a big difference, especially when paired with the right moisturizer for your skin.