Winter Skincare Routine
A winter skincare routine for dry, sensitive skin—hydrate, seal, protect.
Canadian winter is a humidity thief. The fix isn’t ten layers—it’s smarter moisture and zero irritants so your barrier can cope with cold, wind, and indoor heat.
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Fragrance-free + essential-oil-free
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Non-comedogenic
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2–3 steps, morning and night
Morning (2 steps)
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Cleanse — Keep it gentle; skip a.m. cleanse entirely if your skin feels dry—splash with lukewarm water instead.
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Moisturize + protect — Apply Schăf Moisturizer to slightly damp skin.
Evening (3 steps max)
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Cleanse — Remove SPF/makeup without foam parties.
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Treat (optional) — Go easy on exfoliants in winter; every-other-night at most.
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Moisturize — Press in; add a dab more to cheeks/jawline. If you’re extremely dry, seal with a thin layer of a bland occlusive over the driest patches only.
Micro-adjustments that matter in cold weather
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Shorter, cooler showers (sorry).
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Humidifier in rooms where you spend hours.
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Moisturize on damp skin—it traps more water.
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Hands off the scrubs/peels—your barrier’s already working overtime.
What to avoid in winter
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“Glow” toners with daily acids
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Strong fragrance or mint/citrus essential oils
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Thick, waxy occlusives across your whole face (use targeted instead)
Why we’re so strict about irritants: see Practice Safe Skincare.
FAQs
Can I layer a face oil?
If your skin tolerates it, sure—use a bland, fragrance-free oil and very little. But many people do best with Schăf Moisturizer alone.
Do I need a separate night cream?
No. Adjust amount, not products. More where you’re dry; less where you’re not.
Is sunscreen really necessary in winter?
UV is still around, and windburn isn’t skincare’s friend. Keep SPF in the routine.
The winter-proof, two-minute plan
If winter keeps stealing your comfort, simplify: Cleanse → Schăf Moisturizer → SPF (AM). Cleanse → Schăf Moisturizer (PM). Or remove all guesswork with the 3-Step System.