My Winter Skin Survival Guide
- Nina Kemppi
- Dec 12, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Hi, Violet Gang!
How has your December started? Any problems with dehydrated skin, aka pintakuiva iho? If you are experiencing breakouts and tightness in your skin more than usual, this is the post for you.
When winter arrives in Finland, it’s not just the temperatures that drop—our skin’s moisture levels plummet, too. With subzero temperatures outside and aggressively dry, heated indoor air, skin dehydration becomes an unavoidable reality for many. If you’ve found yourself staring at dull, tight skin in the mirror this winter, you’re not alone. Luckily, understanding why this happens and adopting the right solutions can make all the difference.
Let’s break it down together.
Why Does Skin Get Dehydrated in Winter?
Winter in Finland is beautiful—a glittering white wonderland with crisp air and long, cozy nights. But the environment is harsh on your skin.
Freezing Temperatures: The frigid outdoor air lacks humidity, sucking moisture from your skin like a vacuum.
Central Heating: Indoors, we crank up the heating to stay warm. Unfortunately, heated air is notoriously dry, exacerbating dehydration.
Behavioral Habits: We Finns are pros at winter survival. Yet, we sometimes neglect to hydrate properly. Especially when all we want is a steaming mug of kahvi. Add in extra-long sauna sessions (a national tradition!) that can strip your skin of its natural oils, and you have a perfect recipe for dryness.
What’s the Difference Between Dehydrated and Dry Skin?
It’s worth noting that dehydrated skin isn’t the same as dry skin. Dry skin is a skin type caused by low oil production. Dehydrated skin is a condition caused by a lack of water in the skin’s upper layers. And yes, even oily skin types can suffer from dehydration!
Dehydrated skin shows up as:
A tight, uncomfortable feeling.
Flaky patches that ruin your makeup game.
Dullness—no amount of highlighter can fake hydration.
More visible fine lines (the cold isn’t playing!).
Winter-Proofing Your Skin: 5 Solutions for Finnish Winters
1. Choose a Hydrating Skincare Routine
Switching up your skincare products is essential when temperatures drop. Look for products that cater to hydration and barrier repair.
Start with a Gentle Cleanser: Skip harsh, foaming cleansers. Instead, try something creamy or oil-based that cleanses without stripping.
Use a Hyaluronic Acid Serum: This ingredient draws water into the skin. It acts like a tall glass of water for your face. Layer it on damp skin after cleansing for the best results.
Choose a Rich Moisturizer: Nordic winters call for thicker, occlusive creams that seal in hydration. Ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, and squalane are your allies.
Don’t Forget SPF!Yes, you need sunscreen, even in winter. UV rays can still damage your skin on bright, snowy days.
Example: Lumene’s Nordic Hydra range has become a go-to for many Finns. It’s infused with Arctic spring water and birch sap. These ingredients are deeply hydrating while honoring our Nordic roots.
2. Invest in a Humidifier
Finnish homes are often sealed tight to keep the cold out, but that also traps dry, heated air indoors. Adding a humidifier to your living space can increase moisture levels and save your skin from that “sandpaper” feeling. Bonus: it’s great for your sinuses and plants, too!
3. Hydrate From Within
It's tempting to sip on countless cups of kahvi or glögi during dark winter days. Despite this, remember to drink plain water. Winter dehydration is sneaky—you might not feel thirsty, but your skin is begging for hydration. Make hydration more enjoyable. Try warm herbal teas like chamomile or mint. Add a slice of lemon to your water for a refreshing twist.
Pro Tip: We Finns often love our berry smoothies. Adding water-rich ingredients like cucumber or frozen blueberries (mustikka) boosts hydration. These ingredients also add a touch of local flavor to your routine.
4. Be Smart About Sauna Use
Ah, the beloved Finnish sauna. It’s a sacred part of our culture. But, spending too much time in the intense heat can strip your skin of its natural oils. This can make dehydration worse. To enjoy your sauna session without sacrificing your skin, follow up promptly with a hydrating body lotion or oil. A light mist of thermal water on your face post-sauna can also work wonders.
5. Layer Up—Your Skin, Too!
We Finns know how to layer clothing for warmth, and the same principle applies to your skincare. Use the “layering method”: start with a hydrating toner or essence, follow with a serum, and finish with moisturizer.
Think of it as dressing your skin for the season!
Cultural Insights: Why Winter Skincare is Especially Important in Finland
In Finland, winter isn’t just a season—it’s a lifestyle. From kaamos (polar night) in Lapland to city strolls in Lahti’s snowy streets, winter is deeply intertwined with our identity. Still, this also means spending long periods in environments that are harsh on the skin.
Saunas, loved as they are, can inadvertently lead to skin dehydration if not followed by proper care. Similarly, traditional winter activities like cross-country skiing expose the skin to windburn, amplifying the problem. Addressing skin hydration isn’t vanity here—it’s about self-care in a climate that demands it.
Looking Ahead: Staying Ahead of Seasonal Changes
As the days slowly start to lengthen after the winter solstice, your skin will thank you for the extra care. Transitioning to spring doesn’t mean abandoning your hydration routine—keeping it consistent ensures your skin stays healthy year-round.
And let’s not forget: hydrated skin is happy skin🙂. It reflects your overall wellness. It gives you the confidence to embrace Finland’s unique beauty, even on the darkest days of winter.🇫🇮❄️
Read my latest post: Peptide Skincare: Benefits, Tips & Best Products for Youthful Skin
Violet Signing Off
Winter in Finland is as magical as it is challenging for your skin. But with a thoughtful, hydration-focused routine, you can keep your skin glowing—even when the sun is in hibernation. You can layer serums to enhance your skincare routine. Investing in Finnish skincare staples can also make a significant impact through these small changes.
So, here’s to embracing winter while keeping your skin in tip-top shape☕️. Because if there’s one thing Finns know how to do, it’s thrive—even in the frostiest of times.
-Nina💜
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