Expert beauty tips to help transition and care for your skin as the weather shifts from warm to cool.
As the seasons change, so does your skin—and it often doesn’t go quietly. Moving from warm, humid weather to cold, dry conditions can leave your complexion feeling dry, tight, irritated, or just plain unpredictable. Changing the way you care for your skin is important for good skin health.
At Bondi Beauty, we know that great skincare isn’t about perfection—it’s about smart habits that work with your skin’s natural rhythm. Just like you change your wardrobe when the weather shifts, your skincare routine deserves a refresh, too.
Just like nature shifts, your skin evolves with the seasons—and that’s perfectly normal. The key is adaptation, not an overhaul. With a few thoughtful tweaks, you can protect your glow, avoid irritation, and enjoy skin that feels comfortable, soft, and balanced year-round.
So this winter, treat your skincare like your favourite knit jumper: soft, supportive, and made to make you feel good from the inside out.
Here’s your expert-backed, fuss-free guide to managing the shift and keeping your glow intact no matter the forecast.
1. Upgrade Your Cleanser—With Care
That fresh foaming cleanser you loved all summer? It might now be too harsh. In cooler weather, your skin produces less oil and is more prone to dryness and sensitivity. Transition slowly to cream, milk, or oil-based cleansers that cleanse gently without stripping away natural oils.
Pro Hack: Try double cleansing two to three times a week—start with an oil cleanser to break down SPF and makeup, followed by a hydrating cleanser to keep your moisture barrier in check.
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2. Hydrate Like You Mean It
Cold air, indoor heating, and low humidity can sap your skin of hydration. The fix? Moisturisers packed with humectants(like hyaluronic acid), emollients (like squalane or jojoba oil), and occlusives (like shea butter) to seal everything in.
Tip: Apply your moisturiser to slightly damp skin to boost absorption. Bonus points if your formula includes niacinamide—a winter-friendly ingredient that helps support the skin barrier and calm redness.
3. Don’t Skip the SPF—Even in Winter
It may feel counterintuitive, but winter sun can be just as damaging as summer rays. UVA rays, which contribute to ageing and skin cancer, are present all year and can even penetrate glass and clouds.
Choose: A broad-spectrum SPF 30+ that’s hydrating enough to double as your morning moisturiser. If you’re skiing, hiking, or spending time outdoors, remember snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays—so reapply every two hours.
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4. Exfoliate—But Not Like It’s Summer
Winter skin can be dull, but that doesn’t mean scrubbing is the solution. Swap gritty scrubs for chemical or enzyme-based exfoliants that gently renew your skin without causing micro-tears or irritation.
Top Picks:
- Lactic acid (great for hydration and sensitivity)
- Mandelic acid (gentle and suitable for beginners)
- Papaya enzymes (for natural, non-abrasive exfoliation)
Follow with a rich moisturiser or barrier repair serum.
5. Don’t Forget the Little Things: Lips, Hands & Neck
Your lips and hands are some of the first places to show signs of seasonal stress. Cold air and constant hand-washing can lead to cracked skin and chapping.
What to stash in your bag:
- A lip balm with lanolin or beeswax
- A hand cream with glycerin, urea, or vitamin E
- Cuticle oil for nourished nails and no more painful peeling
Style tip: Pop on a pair of cotton gloves at night after applying hand cream to lock in moisture while you sleep.
6. Eat for Your Skin
Skincare isn’t just what you apply—it’s also what you eat. Focus on anti-inflammatory and hydration-supporting foods like:
- Omega-3-rich salmon, flaxseed, or walnuts
- Hydrating fruits like cucumber, watermelon, and citrus
- Leafy greens for vitamin C and antioxidants
- Avocado for skin-loving fats
Hydration hack: If cold water isn’t appealing, sip on warm lemon water or herbal teas throughout the day.
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7. Know When to Book a Skin Check-In
Even with the best at-home routine, seasonal transitions can throw your skin off. If you’re noticing persistent redness, flakiness, or breakouts, it might be time to consult a dermatologist or aesthetician at a specialised skin and aesthetic clinic in Singapore.
When to seek help:
- New sensitivities or flare-ups
- Starting stronger actives (like retinoids or acids)
- Reassessing your routine for your age or climate
A professional can help tailor your products and avoid guesswork.
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