Skincare Tips: How to Keep Skin Moisturised and Dewy in Winter

Peace out, dry skin!

As we experience the “cooler” temperatures of Hong Kong’s winter, we can no longer rely on its humidity to keep our complexion dewy (ok, on most days, oily). Our makeup and skincare expert, Gabbie Lee shares her tips on how we can maintain that gorgeous, plump and moisturised skin not just during the winter but all year long.

Read more: An Easy Fall Makeup Tutorial by Gabbie Lee

Thanks to the talented Janelle from By Janelle Photography for all of the beautiful images above! Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

The first tip to healthy, supple skin according to Gabbie is to tone and moisturise immediately after washing your face. She says, “It’s best to pour alcohol-free toner onto a cotton pad and swipe over damp skin.” This ensures that all cleanser residue is removed from the face. Gabbie loves Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extra Toner (available at Kiehl’s) for normal to oily skin and suggests the Hada Labo Moisturising Toner (available at Sasa) if you have dry skin.

When making sure your face is well moisturised, Gabbie says that you should always start with the skin around your eyes (who knew?!). She loves using NUXE Crème Prodigieuse Contour Des Yeux Contouring Eye Cream (available at Look Fantastic). If you’re looking to splurge, Gabbie also suggests the Chanel Hydra Beauty Micro Gel Yeux Intense Soothing Eye Gel (available at Chanel).

After applying your preferred eye product, moisturise the rest of your face while layering skin care products. Apply a serum like The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane (available at Beautylish) first and then with a moisturiser like the Embryolisse Multi-function Nourishing Moisturiser (available at Net-a-Porter) after. Look at it as an at-home facial to start your day off. You deserve it, mama!

For skincare in the evening, Gabbie swears by using the Glycel 42 Degrees Mobile Skin Therapist. She says, “The tool helps your skin to absorb skin products better and it’s effective for anti-wrinkle and skin rejuvenation by its micro-current treatment.” Anti-wrinkle? Sign us up!

Contrary to popular belief for those with oily to combination skin, using oil will not only help you produce less oil, it’ll make you less greasy as well! Repeat after us, oil is your friend. Gabbie says, “Non-fragrant plant facial oils are for anyone whose skin could use a boost of nourishment, especially when the seasonal cold or drier climates disturb your skin.”

Use a fast absorbing facial oil after putting on your usual skin care products for an extra boost of moisture. The Guerlain Abeille Royale Face Treatment Oil (available at Sasa) is a great one to start with. I have personally used both Aesop Damascan Rose Facial Treatment Oil (available at Aesop) and The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil (available on ASOS) and am a convert to facial oils!

Keep up the regime by using a hydrating face mask at least once a week to help boost your complexion. Gabbie loves using, the Omorovicza Midnight Radiance Mask (available at Joyce Beauty). 

When in doubt, exfoliate and deep clean all year around. The best way to maintain that healthy glow (no matter the season!) is to slough off dead skin cells that are hanging around. Gabbie explains, “Exfoliating gets rid of excess dirt your cleanser won’t remove and makes room for fresh cells to flourish.” She uses NUXE Gentle Exfoliating Gel with Rose Petals (available at Sasa). By applying a deep cleansing mask once a week to remove deeply embedded impurities from pores, your skin will absorb your moisturiser, serums and cream better.

As the temperature drops and the space heaters are turned on, the air can start feeling a bit dry. The best remedy for parched skin is to carry a refreshing, hydrating face spray like the Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist Intense (available at Jurlique) to instantly add moisture back into your complexion. Another cult classic to throw into your hand bag is the Caudalie Beauty Elixir (available at Caudalie) which smells amazing. You can use it as a setting spray on top of your makeup as well. Perfect!

Just because the weather has cooled down and the sun isn’t always shining, it’s still vital to protect your skin against sun damage even during winter. Gabbie loves using NOV UV Milk EX Protective (available at Sasa).

Read more: Sun Protection: Our Favourite Sunscreens