Using Retinol in Winter: How to Keep Skin Comfortable
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Retinol-type ingredients are a favourite in anti-aging skincare, but many people find their skin feels drier or more sensitive with them in winter. Cold air outside, heaters and hot showers inside all dry the skin. The good news is that a few changes help you keep using retinol comfortably all season.
Why winter changes things
- Cold, dry air outdoors.
- Heaters and hot water indoors.
- Less water because you feel less thirsty.
Together these can make skin feel tight, and retinol products may feel stronger than they did in summer.
Theraglam products with retinol-type ingredients
- The Time Rewind Gel is a lightweight gel with Swiss apple cell extract, pro retinol and hyaluronic acid. It is applied to face and neck with upward massage.
- The Night Repair Cream combines hyaluronic acid and retinol. It is made for dark circles, pigmentation, blemishes and dryness, is dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, suits all skin types and is applied every night.
Winter tips for retinol
- Use it at night only, as retinol products are usually used.
- Apply to dry skin after cleansing, unless the directions say otherwise.
- Use a small amount, avoiding the eyelids and the corners of the nose and lips.
- Follow with moisturiser if your skin feels dry.
- Space it out if your skin feels tight, such as every other night, and follow the product directions.
- Wear sunscreen every morning, even on cool, cloudy days.
Add a hydrating night
On nights you skip retinol, a hydrating step keeps skin comfortable. The HydraRenew Collagen Overnight Mask contains hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen, multi-peptides and aloe vera. It is used overnight on face and neck and rinsed off in the morning.
A sample winter week
| Night | Step |
|---|---|
| Mon, Wed, Fri | Retinol product, then moisturiser if needed |
| Tue, Thu | Overnight hydrating mask |
| Sat, Sun | Gentle cleanse and moisturiser only |
Adjust to your skin and the product directions.
Habits that help
- Wash with lukewarm water, not hot.
- Keep showers short.
- Drink water even when it is cold.
- Do not sit right in front of a heater.
- Use lip balm often.
What to avoid
- Scrubs and harsh exfoliation on retinol nights.
- Using more product to speed things up.
- Starting a new retinol product right before a trip or event.
Stop using a product if you notice burning, peeling that does not settle or irritation, and see a dermatologist for persistent problems.
Read more: pro retinol for beginners, retinol and hyaluronic acid together and winter skincare routine.
Quick questions
Should I stop retinol in winter? Not necessarily. Many people keep going with slower use and more moisture.
Gel or cream in winter? Drier skin often prefers a cream in winter. A gel can be followed by moisturiser.
Not sure which products suit your skin? The Theraglam Glow Scan builds a personal skincare routine from 3 photos and a short quiz. Rs 599, one time.
Patch-test any new product on your inner arm for 24 hours first. Stop using it if you notice irritation. This article is general skincare guidance, not medical advice.