Ashly who? Skin protection in harsh winters

Winter can challenge even the best skin care with dry winds and bitter temperatures. Thankfully, more cosmetics brands are being formulated for melanin-rich complexions.
Winter has a way of announcing itself before the calendar does. Cold, bitter winds, low humidity, and indoor heating quietly wreak havoc on skin, hair and nails — especially for people with melanin-rich skin, where dryness, dullness, or hyperpigmentation can show up faster and linger longer. 

The good news: A winter skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. More cosmetic brands — including several Black-owned companies — are being formulated with inclusive shade ranges, pigment-rich formulas, and moisturizers. With the right routine and a few budget-friendly products, it’s possible to protect your skin barrier, maintain your glow, and address dark spots without spending a fortune.

Many products cost under $25, making it easier to assemble a full routine without spending a fortune or sacrificing quality. Social media influencers stress that budget-friendly skin care and makeup staples can deliver impressive results.

Winter hits skin differently

Winter air and heated indoor environments pull water from the skin, leaving melanated skin looking dull, grayish or uneven. Winter is also when hyperpigmentation can worsen since dryness weakens the skin barrier, making it more vulnerable to irritation, breakouts, and slower healing. 

As one influencer notes, “Whether you have oily, combination, dry or normal skin, chances are whether it’s the wind, the snow or the temperature the winter most likely will affect you.” This is why maintaining moisture and gently exfoliating matters just as much as using targeted treatments. 

As with any skincare routine, people with chronic skin conditions or persistent irritation should consult a dermatologist for personalized guidance. But here’s how to build a cost-conscious routine that stays aligned with principles these influencers return to season after season.

1. Start with a gentle, non-foaming cleanser

During colder months, experts consistently recommend mild, creamy cleansers during colder months. These formulas clean without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Using a gentle cleanser in the morning helps retain overnight moisture and preps the skin for protective products.

2. Use a lightweight hydrating serum

Influencers frequently stress the power of humectant-rich serums for getting that “winter glow.” Look for a formula with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, beta-glucan, or other water-binding ingredients. They help plump the skin, soothe sensitivity, and prevent tightness under makeup. Niacinamide, in particular, is beloved for winter because it supports oil balance while softening hyperpigmentation without irritating the skin.

3. Apply a rich but breathable moisturizer

Winter is not the time for lightweight gels. Opt for an affordable moisturizer that includes ceramides, shea butter, squalane or glycerin. These ingredients support the skin barrier, reduce flaking, and maintain elasticity.

4. Don’t skip sunscreen — no, not even in winter

Dermatologists repeatedly push back on the myth that darker skin doesn’t need sunscreen in cold months. The sun’s UV rays and visible light affect skin year-round. Choose a budget sunscreen that dries clear on deeper tones and doesn’t leave a gray cast. It could also serve as a protective moisture-locking layer beneath makeup.

5. Finish with complexion products designed for melanin-rich skin

When it comes to cosmetics, influencers often highlight hydrating complexion products that complement winter dryness: creamy concealers, satin-finish foundations, and illuminating skin tints. A dewy finish helps counter dullness while still delivering coverage. Powder should be used sparingly and only where needed to avoid highlighting dry areas.

A budget-friendly restoration routine 

1. Remove makeup with an oil or balm cleanser

Use a double cleansing routine that begins with applying an affordable oil or balm to dissolve sunscreen and makeup without pulling on the skin. This step prevents clogged pores and protects the skin from drying surfactants.

2. Follow with a hydrating cleanser

This second cleanse removes remaining impurities and allows the skin to absorb treatments more effectively. A creamy or milky cleanser is ideal for maintaining moisture levels.

3. Add a gentle dark-spot treatment

Winter is a strategic time to tackle hyperpigmentation because there is less intense sun exposure. Recommended products include those that have niacinamide, azelaic acid, lactic acid, or gentle botanical brighteners. These are less irritating than strong acids and safer for deeper tones. Apply only to dark spots to avoid lightening the surrounding skin.

4. Seal with a thick nighttime moisturizer

For overnight repair, choose dense creams or balms fortified with fatty oils — crucial for waking up with supple, even-toned skin.

Jennifer Porter Gore is a writer for Word in Black.