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Winter skin care routine: why exfoliating comes before moisturiser
Anyone who lives through cold winters knows the signs: dryness, dehydration and dullness. So, should you just use more moisturiser? Not necessarily. Here’s the winter skin care routine I recommend, why gentle exfoliation makes such a difference, and how I prep skin for winter brides.
By Corrie Elle, founder and lead makeup artist · Updated October 2026 · 5 min read
The short version
- Moisturiser works better when it isn’t sitting on a layer of dry, dead skin.
- Gentle exfoliation, once or twice a week, reveals fresher skin and helps your hydration sink in.
- Follow with a richer moisturiser, a hydrating serum and SPF, even in winter.
- For a winter wedding, start your skin routine weeks ahead and never try a new exfoliant right before the day.
Why moisturiser alone isn’t enough in winter
Moisturiser is great for everyone. However, in winter it can be at an unfair disadvantage. Our skin renews itself roughly every month, depending on age and other factors, so dry, damaged cells can build up on the surface long before they’re shed.
If we simply apply more moisturiser, we may just be moisturising a layer of dull, dry skin, rather than nourishing the fresh skin underneath. As a result, skin can still feel tight and look flat, and makeup can cling to dry patches.
Why exfoliating belongs in your winter skin care routine
Exfoliating helps clear away dead skin cells and reveals the newer, healthier-looking skin beneath. In addition, it helps your moisturiser and serums do their job, can help keep pores clearer and leaves an all-over healthy glow.
For makeup, the difference is huge. On smooth, well-prepped skin, foundation glides on, sits evenly and looks like skin, instead of catching on flakes.
Corrie’s tip
Be gentle. In winter, skin is already stressed, so exfoliate once or twice a week rather than every day, and stop if your skin feels tight, red or stings.
My winter skin care routine, step by step
This is the routine I suggest to clients through the colder months. Of course, if you have sensitive skin or a skin condition, check with your dermatologist first.
01
Cleanse gently
First, swap a foaming cleanser for a creamy or gel one, so you don’t strip your skin’s natural oils.
02
Exfoliate weekly
Next, use a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week to clear away dry, dull skin.
03
Hydrate
Then apply a hydrating serum on slightly damp skin, which helps it hold on to moisture.
04
Moisturise richly
After that, switch to a richer moisturiser than you’d use in summer, and don’t forget your lips.
05
Protect
Finally, wear SPF every morning. Winter sun, especially reflected off snow, still reaches your skin.
Types of exfoliants to choose from
There are three main types, and each one suits different skin. When I first wrote this post, my favourites were one of each, pictured above.
Gentle and quick
Enzyme gels
- Fruit enzymes that loosen dead skin
- A soft option for most skin types
- Massage in, then rinse off
Easy and even
Acid pads
- Mild AHAs, such as lactic or glycolic acid
- Swipe over clean skin, without rinsing
- Start slowly, especially if you’re sensitive
Smooth and polished
Gentle scrubs
- Fine, soft particles, never harsh grains
- Use light pressure, as well as lukewarm water
- Skip them on irritated or broken skin
Happy exfoliating! For more skin and beauty tips, follow us on Instagram.
Winter skin care routine for brides
If you’re getting married in winter, begin your routine at least six to eight weeks before the day, so your skin has time to settle. Above all, don’t try a brand-new exfoliant, peel or facial in the final week.
On the wedding morning, we prep the skin with hydration before any makeup, so your base looks smooth and fresh in photos, indoors and out in the cold. For long winter days, a hydrating primer (or a light layer of airbrush makeup) and a soft, satin-finish foundation look far better than a heavy matte base.
Winter skin care routine: your questions
Planning an autumn wedding instead? See my guide to fall wedding makeup.
How often should I exfoliate in winter?
Usually once or twice a week is enough. Winter skin is already dry and sensitive, so over-exfoliating can cause redness and irritation.
Should I exfoliate before applying makeup?
Exfoliate the evening before, or a day or two ahead, rather than right before makeup. That way, your skin is smooth but calm when your foundation goes on.
What is the best winter skin care routine for dry skin?
Generally, a gentle cleanser, weekly exfoliation, a hydrating serum, a richer moisturiser and daily SPF. If you have a skin condition, ask your dermatologist first.
When should brides start their winter skin routine?
Ideally, six to eight weeks before the wedding. Then avoid any new products or treatments in the final week, so there are no surprises.
Getting married this winter? Let’s plan your glow.
Share your date and venue. We’ll talk skin prep, design your look at your trial and check availability in Toronto, the GTA and Ottawa.