Cold Weather and Dry Skin: How to Protect Your Barrier Before It Breaks

November in Wisconsin brings crisp air, dry wind, and the season’s first real drop in humidity. While the weather is shifting outside, your skin is shifting with it. The skin barrier has to work harder in winter, and without the right support, dryness, tightness, or irritation begin to show.

At Monarch Salon, we believe seasonal care should feel simple. Below are the changes that keep your skin steady and comfortable through winter.

Why Cold Weather Impacts Your Skin

Cold air holds less moisture, and indoor heat pulls hydration from your skin even faster. Your barrier is not the problem; it is simply responding to a more demanding environment.

The goal of winter skincare is not to overhaul your routine. It is to adjust it.

Five Winter Skin Shifts That Protect Your Barrier

1. Add Hydration Before Moisture

Humid summer air naturally supports your skin’s hydration. Winter does not.
Applying a hydrating mist or serum while your skin is still damp helps your moisturizer seal in water, giving your barrier what it needs to stay balanced.

2. Strengthen Instead of Exfoliating More

When your skin feels dry, the instinct is often to exfoliate. In winter, this leads to more irritation.
Choose creamy cleansers, ceramides, and soothing ingredients that help rebuild your barrier.

3. Choose Winter Weight Moisturizers

Your summer routine is too light for cold Wisconsin air. Winter requires richer creams to keep your barrier intact.
If you are unsure which moisturizer is right for you, visit us. We can help you choose the right Glo Skin Beauty formula based on your current skin needs.

4. Support Overnight Repair

Nighttime is when your skin recovers most effectively. Winter is the perfect time to upgrade your night cream to something more protective.

5. Consider Your Indoor Environment

Long showers, dry heat, and low humidity inside all affect your skin.
Shorter warm showers, a humidifier, and applying moisturizer immediately after bathing can create noticeable improvements.

Need Help Choosing Your Winter Routine?

If you want help choosing the right products and routine for your winter skin,stop by Monarch for a personalized winter routine recommendation.

We will walk you through what your skin needs based on how it is responding to the season.