Every year, the same scenario repeats. From the first cold waves, skin in winter changes behavior. It feels tight after showering, reddens at the slightest wind, becomes drier, sometimes very sensitive.
Simple seasonal discomfort? Not only that. Behind dry skin in winter lies a precise biological mechanism, now well documented by dermatologists. We offer you expert insight and concrete solutions to adapt your winter routine.
What cold really does to the skin
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not just the lack of hydration that causes problems in winter. The core issue is the skin barrier.
1. Slowed sebum production
When the temperature drops, sebaceous glands slow down. The hydrolipidic film — this natural shield made of water and lipids — thins.
Consequence: the skin loses water more easily and becomes uncomfortable. This is the beginning of skin dehydration.
2. A weakened skin barrier
The stratum corneum is organized like a brick wall: the cells are the bricks, the lipids are the cement.
In winter, this “lipid cement” becomes scarce. The skin barrier becomes permeable. External aggressions penetrate more easily, hence:
- diffuse redness
- burning sensations
- hypersensitivity
- dry patches
3. Redness: a microcirculation issue
The back-and-forth between cold outside and indoor heating causes sudden changes in microcirculation. Blood vessels contract then dilate. In thin or reactive skin, this results in redness in winter, especially on the cheeks and nose.
The right strategy: repair before moisturizing
The common mistake is to multiply moisturizing products without addressing the main cause: the alteration of the skin barrier.
In winter, the priority is twofold:
- Restore lipids
- Limit water loss
In other words, you need to combine hydration and nourishment.

Winter routine: which facial care to adopt?
Cleanse without stripping dry skin in winter
Cleansing is a strategic step to preserve the skin barrier.
Our 2-step makeup removal is ideal
1- Makeup Removing Paste Graine de pastel or Makeup Removing Oil Graine de pastel
Super creamy, our makeup removers are applied on dry skin and rinsed gently with lukewarm water.
Note: be careful with water that is too hot, as it worsens the feeling of dry skin in winter.
2- Graine de pastel Cleansing Gel
It is essential to perfect makeup removal and cleanse the skin without irritating it.
Its dual action makes it unique: 1/ no sulfates for gentle cleansing / pastel oil that compensates for nutrient loss.
Intelligently layering winter facial care
An effective routine relies on the complementarity of textures and active ingredients.
1- A targeted serum
- Firming Serum to reactivate natural collagen synthesis,
- Anti-spot Serum to block the appearance of spots and even out your complexion,
- Defense Oil, to restore radiance and boost glow
- Resurfacing Serum to smooth the skin—your skin gets to choose!
2- Richer creams to strengthen the skin barrier
We have selected 2 textures very suitable for winter:
- Its simplicity hides a formidable effectiveness on the skin barrier: the Graine de pastel Rich Moisturizing Cream.
- Suitable for skin seeking density and bounce, the Graine de pastel Regenerating Cream can be used morning and evening; thanks to its ultra-comfortable texture, it will be your ally until spring. You can then keep it as a night cream.
3- An oil finish in the evening to seal in hydration
Vegetable oils rich in omega 3 are particularly relevant in the cold season. Applied with the Gua Sha Graine de pastel, the Graine de pastel Antioxidant Defense Oil is your ally this winter. To stimulate your skin and provide its protective shield!

Why pastel oil is especially suited for winter skin
Rich in omega 3, 6, 9, pastel oil is known for its repairing and soothing action.
Omega 3, 6, 9 play a key role in cellular cohesion and the quality of skin membranes.
Integrated into our organic formulas, pastel oil helps to:
- strengthen the skin barrier
- soothe redness
- improve suppleness
- limit the feeling of tightness
A strategic ingredient to care for your skin in winter!
Winter skin: the importance of lifestyle habits
Cosmetics support the skin, but overall balance is just as crucial.
Focus on dietary omega-3s: fatty fish, nuts, flax seeds support the quality of cell membranes.
Maintain good hydration: even in winter, water loss continues. Infusions and broths remain essential to limit skin dehydration.
Support natural defenses: fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants help the skin better resist winter oxidative stress.

Cabin treatment in Toulouse: when winter skin needs a reset
If dry skin in winter sets in or redness persists, professional support can speed up repair.
In our cabin treatment space in Toulouse, at 27 rue de la Pomme, our protocols target:
- restoring the skin barrier
- soothing redness
- intense rehydration
- reviving radiance
A facial treatment in the cabin in Toulouse acts like a true skin reset in the heart of winter and then optimizes the effectiveness of your home routine.
To book an appointment with our dermo-consultants, click here: PLANITY