Every year, the same scenario repeats itself. As soon as the first cold spells arrive, skin in winter changes its behavior. It feels tight after a shower, reddens at the slightest gust of wind, becomes drier, and sometimes very sensitive.
Just seasonal discomfort? Not only. Behind dry skin in winter lies a precise biological mechanism, now well documented by dermatologists. We offer an expert analysis and practical solutions for adapting your winter routine.
What cold really does to the skin
Contrary to popular belief, it is not just a lack of hydration that causes problems in winter. The heart of the issue is the skin barrier.
1. Slowed sebum production
When the temperature drops, the sebaceous glands slow down. The hydrolipidic film - this natural shield made up of water and lipids - becomes thinner.
As a result, 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, and the lipids are the cement.
In winter, this “lipid cement” becomes less abundant. The skin barrier becomes permeable. External irritants penetrate more easily, resulting in:
- diffuse redness
- burning sensations
- hypersensitivity
- dry patches
3. Redness: a matter of microcirculation
The back-and-forth between outdoor cold and indoor heating causes abrupt changes in microcirculation. Blood vessels contract and then dilate. For thin or reactive skin, this results in winter redness, particularly on the cheeks and nose.
The right strategy: repair before moisturizing
The common mistake is to multiply moisturizing products without addressing the main cause: damage to 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 products should you choose?
Cleansing dry skin in winter without stripping it
Cleansing is a strategic step in preserving the skin barrier.
Our 2-step makeup removal routine is ideal
1- Graine de pastel makeup-removing paste or Graine de pastel makeup-removing oil
Ultra-creamy, our makeup removers are applied to dry skin and gently rinsed off with lukewarm water.
Please note: beware of water that is too hot, as it worsens the feeling of dry skin in winter.
2- Graine de pastel Cleansing Jelly
It is essential for perfecting makeup removal and cleansing the skin without irritating it.
Its dual action makes it unique: 1/ no sulfates for gentle cleansing/ pastel oil to compensate for the loss of nutrients.
Layering winter facial care products intelligently
An effective routine relies on the complementary textures and active ingredients.
1- A targeted serum
- Firming serum to restart the skin's natural collagen synthesis,
- Dark spot correcting serum to prevent the appearance of dark spots and even out your complexion,
- Defense oil, to restore radiance and boost glow
- Resurfacing serum to smooth the skin - the choice is yours!
2- Richer creams to strengthen the skin barrier
We have selected 2 textures that are particularly suited to winter:
- Its simplicity conceals 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 through spring. You can then keep using it as a night cream.
3- An oil as the final step in the evening to seal in moisture
Plant oils rich in omega-3s are particularly beneficial during the cold season. Applied with the Guasha Graine de pastel, the Antioxidant defense oil Graine de pastel is your ally this winter. To stimulate your skin and provide it with its protective shield!
Why pastel oil is particularly suited to winter skin
Rich in omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids, pastel oil is known for its repairing and soothing action.
Omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids play a key role in cell cohesion and the quality of skin membranes.
Included in our organic formulas, pastel oil helps to:
- strengthening the skin barrier
- soothing redness
- improving suppleness
- reducing the feeling of tightness
A strategic active ingredient for caring for your skin in winter!
Winter skin: the importance of a healthy lifestyle
Cosmetics support the skin, but overall balance is just as important.
Relying on dietary omega-3s : oily fish, nuts, and flaxseeds support the quality of cell membranes.
Maintaining good hydration: water loss continues even in winter. Herbal teas and broths remain essential for limiting skin dehydration.
Supporting natural defenses : fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants help the skin better withstand winter oxidative stress.
Treatment room in Toulouse: when your winter skin needs a reset
If dry skin in winter sets in or redness persists, professional support can accelerate the repair process.
In our treatment room in Toulouse, at 27 rue de la Pomme, our protocols target:
- restoring the skin barrier
- soothing redness
- intense rehydration
- restoring radiance
A facial treatment in a salon in Toulouse acts as a true skin reset in the heart of winter and then optimizes the effectiveness of your at-home routine.
To book an appointment with our skincare consultants, click here: PLANITY
