Winter Skincare Tips: How to Protect Your Skin This Season
Winter in Northern Ireland can be brutal on your skin. Between freezing temperatures, harsh winds, and dry indoor heating, your skin takes a real battering during the cold months.
Dr Conor Bradley, Specialist Dermatology Doctor at Cathedral Dermatology, recently joined Frank Mitchell on U105 to share expert winter skincare tips.
Listen to the full U105 interview with Dr Conor Bradley and Frank Mitchell:
Why Winter Damages Your Skin
“Winter is the perfect storm,” explains Dr Bradley. “We’re driven inside by colder weather, and the air in our homes is extremely dry. When outdoor air comes inside during winter months, it dries out significantly.”
Combined with wind, rain, and friction from scarves and winter clothing, your skin faces multiple challenges during the cold season.
5 Essential Winter Skincare Tips
Don’t Skip SPF Protection
Many people think SPF isn’t necessary in winter, but this is a dangerous myth.
“Although the sun is slightly lower in winter, UVA light – which causes aging and skin damage – is still there constantly,” explains Dr Bradley. SPF protection is vital as a standard for everyone.
Switch to Thicker Moisturisers
Your lightweight summer lotion won’t cut it in winter. Dr Bradley recommends choosing thicker moisturisers with these key ingredients:
- Ceramides – repair your skin barrier and prevent moisture loss
- Urea – hydrates skin deeply and smooths rough patches
- Shea butter – seals in moisture and protects against environmental damage.
Choose Fragrance-Free Products
Your skin’s protective barrier becomes more vulnerable in winter, and fragrances can cause irritation. “Fragrance-free products are ideal, especially when scarves and coats are rubbing against your skin.” notes Dr Bradley
Be Gentle with Cleansing
Harsh soaps strip away your skin’s natural oils, leaving it vulnerable to winter damage.
Winter cleansing tips:
- Use gentle cleansers
- Avoid excessively hot showers
- Pat skin dry gently
- Apply moisturiser immediately after cleansing while skin is damp
Use Moisturiser with SPF
For an efficient routine, Dr Bradley recommends moisturisers with built-in SPF such as Altruist SPF 50 moisturiser (fast-absorbing, non-sticky.)
When to Seek Professional Help
Monitor your skin for any marks that are changing in colour, size, or shape. “Early detection makes a significant difference,” emphasises Dr Bradley. “Survival rates for conditions like melanoma have improved dramatically with new treatments, but they only work if people seek help quickly.”
If you’re concerned about any skin changes, contact your GP or Cathedral Dermatology. We offer comprehensive skin examinations, dermatologist consultations, and our walk in mole screening services.
A Warning About Sunbeds
Dr Bradley has an important message: “Using a sunbed just once increases melanoma risk by around 20%. A base tan only provides SPF 2-4 protection – nowhere near adequate. Please avoid sunbeds.”
Get Expert Support
Winter skincare isn’t just cosmetic – it’s essential biological protection for your skin. If you have concerns or need personalised advice, contact Cathedral Dermatology to book a consultation with our specialists.