Winter’s Coming: Face Yoga & Skincare Tips for the Cold Season
There’s something magical about winter—the cozy sweaters, holiday lights, and evenings spent curled up with a warm drink. But as much as I love this season, I know it can be tough on our skin. The cold air outside and the dry heat inside often leave my face feeling tight, dull, and more prone to fine lines. Over the years, I’ve learned that the key to enjoying winter without sacrificing healthy, glowing skin is to create small, mindful rituals.
Face yoga is at the heart of my own routine, but it works best when paired with thoughtful seasonal care. So, as the temperatures drop, here are my favorite tips for keeping your skin nourished and radiant all winter long.
1. Hydration from the Inside Out
It’s easy to drink less water in winter—we reach for coffee, tea, and hot chocolate instead. But your skin still needs hydration, maybe even more than in summer. I like to sip warm water with lemon throughout the day. Herbal teas also count, especially blends with chamomile or rose that support hydration and calm inflammation. When your body is hydrated, your skin reflects it.
2. Switch to Richer Moisture
Your summer skincare routine may not cut it during winter. Lightweight lotions can leave skin vulnerable to dryness and irritation. I recommend moving to a creamier moisturizer or a nourishing facial oil. Ingredients like jojoba, rosehip, and almond oil are especially soothing. I often massage them in using gentle face yoga movements—it’s the perfect combination of moisture and circulation.
3. Practice Gentle Face Yoga for Circulation
Cold weather can slow blood flow, which means your skin might look dull or tired. A few minutes of face yoga helps stimulate circulation and bring warmth to your skin. I especially love cheek lifts and gentle tapping around the eyes and forehead. These moves don’t just brighten your complexion—they also relax tension that builds up in cold weather.
4. Don’t Forget the Air Around You
Indoor heating can be just as harsh as outdoor winds. Running a humidifier in your bedroom or workspace helps replace moisture in the air. I like to add a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus essential oil for both skincare benefits and relaxation.
5. Protect Your Skin Outdoors
Just because it’s cloudy doesn’t mean you can skip sunscreen. UV rays can still damage skin in winter, especially when reflected off snow. A light SPF during the day, plus a protective balm for lips and cheeks, makes all the difference.
6. Create a Nighttime Ritual
Evenings are my favorite time to really slow down and care for my skin. In winter, I often add a warm herbal steam before bed—just a bowl of hot water with chamomile or rosemary, a towel over my head, and a few deep breaths. It softens the skin, unclogs pores, and preps my face for a relaxing yoga session and a final layer of moisturizer.
A Season for Nourishment
Winter doesn’t have to mean dry, dull skin. With a little extra care, it can actually be a season of nourishment. Think of it as giving your skin a cozy sweater and a warm hug from the inside out. Pairing face yoga with mindful winter rituals keeps not only your skin glowing but also your spirit lifted.
