The Top 3 Things Ruining Your Winter Glow (And How to Fix Them)

Feb 2, 2026

Winter skin looking more flaky than fresh?

You're not alone. This season is notorious for stripping the skin of its natural radiance and replacing it with dryness, dullness, and irritation. But it’s not just the cold - here are three silent culprits that could be hiding in your routine and holding your glow hostage.

Here’s what to avoid - and what to use instead.

1. Over-cleansing or using the wrong cleanser

In winter, many people over-cleanse or continue using foaming, gel-based cleansers that may work in warmer months. This strips your skin’s lipid barrier, leading to dehydration and inflammation.

How to fix it:

  • Switch to a cream-based cleanser that supports the skin barrier.

  • Avoid foam cleansing in the morning if you’re dry or sensitive; a cream cleanser should be your go to.

  • At night, remove SPF or makeup with a double cleanse, start with the Dolce Blue Cleansing Oil to remove gunk without stripping.

Recommended product:
Dolce Dew Cream Cleanser – A gentle, barrier-supportive formula designed to cleanse without stripping. Developed with estheticians to leave the skin soft, not squeaky.

2. Skipping lipid-based hydration

Hydration doesn’t end with a water-based serum. Especially in colder months, your skin craves oils and lipids to restore what dry air and heat systems pull out.

How to fix it:

  • Use a facial oil or cream rich in ceramides, fatty acids, and antioxidants.

  • Apply moisturizer to damp skin to lock in hydration.

  • Consider an occlusive final layer if your skin feels tight or irritated.

Recommended products:

  • Good Greens Facial Oil – A nutrient-rich botanical blend that locks in moisture and nourishes the skin barrier.

  • Enriched Cream – A deeply hydrating, skin-fortifying moisturizer ideal for barrier repair in winter.

3. Ignoring internal hydration and facial lymphatic flow

Glow doesn’t only come from what you apply topically. Stagnant lymphatic flow, poor hydration habits, and lack of circulation can lead to puffiness, dull tone, and congestion.

How to fix it:

  • Practice facial massage three times per week to stimulate flow and reduce stagnation.

  • Hydrate consistently throughout the day — not just at night.

  • Incorporate antioxidant-rich foods and omega-3s to support skin from within.

Recommended method:
Learn the how to de-puff your face with facial lymphatic massage technique..

Start your glow reset today:

  • Cleanse with the Cream Cleanser

  • Hydrate deeply with the Good Greens Facial Oil or Enriched Cream

  • Support internal flow with facial massage and consistent hydration

Next steps:

Back to Diaries Of An Esthetician

Share this