The Truth About Moisturizing in Winter Mornings
- Nina Kemppi
- Jan 5
- 5 min read
Hi, Violets! I’m back from my winter break and ready to kick off 2026 with some skincare truths.
The cold has officially arrived here in Finland — we’re talking -10°C or even lower. And that gave me the idea for this first post of the year: busting the myth that you shouldn’t moisturize your face in cold winter mornings — whether you live in Finland or are just visiting a place like it.
I remember hearing this advice from my mom before ski trips. Back then, Vitalis was our go-to. The trick? Waterless moisturizer. Let’s unpack what actually happens to your skin in winter and which moisturizers you really need.
Should You Moisturize Your Face in Cold Weather?
It’s left many of us staring at our skincare in winter, unsure what to do. And in Finland’s deep freeze, the confusion makes sense. Between icy winds and dry air, your skin becomes dry, tight, and sensitive — especially during the coldest months: January, February, and March.
Knowing how to care for your skin in this climate makes the difference between just getting by and actually thriving.
Can Moisturizer Freeze on Your Skin?
Some travel guides still warn against using moisturizer in cold weather, claiming it increases your risk of frostbite. The idea is that moisturizer creates a false sense of warmth — your skin feels protected, but it might actually freeze underneath.
The science behind this? That theory misses key facts. Skin stays relatively warm even in freezing weather — typically between 26.5°C and 37°C. So, unless your skin barrier is severely compromised, your cream won’t freeze on your face.
Water-Based vs. Oil-Based Moisturizer: What’s the Difference?
The myth comes from a misunderstanding of ingredients. In extreme cold, water-based moisturizers could, in theory, freeze — just like water in a freezer. And freezing water expands, which could damage tiny blood vessels in the skin.
But not all moisturizers are created equal.
Water-based creams can evaporate quickly or feel cooling in the cold.
Oil-based or wax-based moisturizers form a protective layer that helps prevent moisture loss.
This is why choosing the right product — not skipping moisturizer — is what matters most.
Why This Skincare Myth Still Exists
This advice comes from a time when we didn’t have access to specialized winter skincare. Today, we understand more about how skin works in extreme cold, and we have better products to match.
Modern formulations are designed for Nordic winters. Experts now recommend:
Ointments, balms, or creams rich in oils (like shea butter or ceramides)
Avoiding thin water-based gels in extreme conditions
Adapting your routine to your skin type and environment
So no — don’t skip moisturizer. Just switch to the right one.
What Cold Weather Really Does to Your Skin
Finnish winters change how your skin functions. Here's how:
How Cold Air Strips Away Natural Oils
Temps can drop to -20°C or lower. That dry, cold air pulls moisture from your skin — fast. Add wind into the mix, and your natural oil barrier gets wiped out, leaving skin exposed and uncomfortable.
The Role of Indoor Heating in Drying Skin
Heating systems dry out the air inside, turning your home into a moisture vacuum for your skin. Within hours, the outer layer of your skin starts to lose water faster than it can be replaced.
Why Your Skin Barrier Weakens in Winter
Your skin barrier — made up of lipids, oils, and proteins — is what keeps moisture in and irritants out. But winter conditions damage this barrier through:
Cold and wind (removes oils)
Heating (dries skin out)
Temperature shifts (adds stress)
This leads to increased sensitivity, flaking, redness, and even flare-ups of conditions like eczema or rosacea.
Best Moisturizers for Winter Skin
Switch to oil-based or wax-based moisturizers as soon as it gets cold. Look for:
Shea butter
Ceramides
Jojoba, marula, or other plant oils
If you have oily skin, use lightweight gel-creams with ingredients like squalane or peptides. Don’t be afraid of oils — even oily skin benefits from the right ones.
*These are my ShopMy affiliate links.
Yes, You Still Need SPF in Winter
Even when it’s cloudy and grey, UV rays still reach your skin. Snow also reflects sunlight, increasing exposure to sunlight. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, ideally one with added moisture.
Try: La Roche-Posay Anthelios — light, effective, and moisturizing.
Avoid Harsh Morning Cleansers in Winter
In the morning, keep it gentle:
Skip foaming or sulfate-heavy cleansers
Try just rinsing with lukewarm water if your skin is dry
Never let your skin feel tight after washing — that means it's dehydrated
Let Your Moisturizer Absorb Before Going Outside
This is key: give your skincare time to absorb before heading out in the cold. Apply moisturizer right after washing your face while your skin is slightly damp. Wait a few minutes before layering up and heading out.
How to Layer Skincare in Winter
Apply products from thinnest to thickest:
Hydrating toner
Serum
Moisturizer
Facial oil (to seal everything in)
Oils trap moisture — they don’t give it. So they work best as the final step.
Extra Winter Skincare Tips for Finland
Cover Your Face Outdoors
Use scarves, balaclavas, or neck gaiters to protect your skin from windburn. And wear sunglasses — snow glare can damage eyes even in winter.
Use a Humidifier at Home
Indoor air dries your skin. A humidifier helps restore moisture levels. Aim for 30–50% humidity for healthy skin and better product absorption.
Eat Skin-Friendly Foods
Add omega-3-rich foods like walnuts, salmon, and flaxseed to your meals. Drink enough water — about half your body weight in ounces daily.
Use the Sauna for Glowing Skin
Sauna bathing increases circulation, opens pores, and boosts skin glow. Always moisturize afterward while your skin is still warm and receptive.
Wear the Right Clothing
Layer up — especially in Lapland, where temperatures drop to -30°C. Protect your head, hands, and feet with insulated, water-resistant gear. Your skin will thank you.
Violet Conclusion: Don’t Skip Moisturizer — Choose the Right One
Winter skincare myths persist because they’re based on partial truths. Yes, water-based creams might not be ideal in extreme cold. But skipping moisturizer altogether? That’s not the solution.
Finnish winters attack your skin from all sides — cold, dry air outside and dehydrating heat indoors. What your skin needs is smart care: richer products, barrier support, SPF, gentle cleansing, and protective routines.
You can absolutely maintain healthy, glowing skin in Nordic winter — you just need the right tools, products, and habits.
So that’s my two scents (yes, skincare pun!) on why you don’t have to skip moisturizer in winter.😉
Nina.
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