The "Winter Uglies" Are Very Real—Experts Recommended These 10 Beauty Products to Bring Back My Radiance.

      I'm not sure about you, but my skin and hair definitely take a hit every winter. I already deal with dark spots and breakouts, which is challenging enough, but when the temperatures drop, my skin tends to become even more dehydrated and can appear quite dull. Although I've learned more about how to tackle these harsh seasonal changes than I used to know, I thought it would be helpful to seek some expert advice. Emma Nowakowski, the education curriculum manager at Bioelements, emphasizes that protection is crucial during this time. "It's essential to optimize the skin's barrier function, especially during seasonal transitions," she explains. "The shift in climate, both indoors and outdoors, can significantly disrupt your protective hydrolipid barrier. When the temperatures fall and humidity decreases, many people notice their skin becoming dry, itchy, tight, or flaky. This isn't arbitrary—it's a seasonal issue known as winter xerosis, a clinical term for cold-weather dryness caused by barrier disruption and environmental stress. The lack of humidity in the air literally pulls vital surface moisture from our skin. So, consider these steps from now until spring: gentle cleansing, a moisturizer rich in emollients, soothing protective serums, and facial oils to provide dewy hydration from head to toe." If you're looking for a complete guide to restoring your winter glow, keep reading. I consulted Nowakowski and a few other experts for their best tips on fighting winter skin issues.

      What leads to your skin losing its glow in the winter? There are numerous factors that contribute to dry, dull skin during winter, but SkinSpirit aesthetician Samantha Duffy explained it further. "Both internal and external factors affect hydration and glow," she clarifies. "Low humidity can cause the skin to become drier and more sensitive or irritated in the winter. When you add in the inflammatory foods, drinks, and stress common during this season, it creates a perfect storm for dull and irritated skin." Duffy suggests the best course of action during this time is to take a holistic approach to skincare. Reducing stress, watching your sugar and alcohol consumption, and most importantly, enhancing both your internal and external hydration are key. "Switch to a more lipid-rich moisturizer, and cut back on heavy exfoliation if you're experiencing dryness or flakiness," she advises. "For more advanced options, consider treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, BBL, or laser treatments to achieve that extra glow you’re after." Master aesthetic nurse and aesthetician Terri Miller, BSN, RN, LE, also shared some tips. "In winter, my main focus is keeping my skin hydrated and consistent," she states. "I ensure I'm diligent with my serums, moisturizer, and use a hydrating mask a few times a week to maintain a glow even when it's cold and dry outside. I also incorporate LED light therapy at least twice a week to help keep my skin calm, healthy, and radiant."

      **10 Glow-Restoring Products Experts Recommend for Winter**

      *CeraVe Moisturizing Cream*

      If you're watching your budget this winter, Duffy recommends affordable drugstore brands like CeraVe and Cetaphil for added moisture. This dermatologist-developed cream is a winter essential. She also suggests, "Change your gel or foam cleanser for a cream cleanser from these brands, and remember to double cleanse at night. Incorporate a hyaluronic acid hydrating serum into your routine and opt for a heavier moisturizer morning and night. Gentle exfoliation two to three times a week can be beneficial based on your skin type, through either a gentle scrub or a liquid AHA/BHA exfoliant."

      *Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask*

      This mask deeply cleanses pores with kaolin, bentonite, and rose clay. Miller is a big fan, stating, "I love the Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask with rose clay weekly for gently smoothing and brightening dull winter skin."

      *Shani Darden Skin Care Sake Nourishing Essence*

      I genuinely believe that the products by celebrity aesthetician Shani Darden have transformed my skin. It's hard to believe that most of her products are oil-free given how hydrating they are, without causing congestion for those with acne-prone skin. This essence has become a staple in my regimen; I've tried many good essences, but none brighten, hydrate, and plump my skin like this one. The effects are immediate too. If I happen to go without using it for a while (a huge mistake), my skin quickly regains its radiance after just a few days of use.

      *Shani Darden Skin Care Hydration Peptide Cream for Dry Skin*

      If you're prone to acne like I am, finding a rich winter moisturizer that won't cause congestion can be challenging. This moisturizer from Darden is indispensable for me because it forms a substantial hydration barrier without being heavy or causing blackheads—the telltale sign of a moisturizer that's too