Why Your Skin Flares Up Every Winter and How to Calm It Naturally

Posted by Amelia Goff on

If your skin starts feeling tight, dry, or irritated as soon as the cooler weather sets in, you’re not alone. Many people experience flare-ups of inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, perioral dermatitis, and general skin sensitivity during winter. You might even find yourself thinking, “My dermatitis comes back every winter.”

The good news? There are simple, effective ways to care for your skin and prevent winter flare-ups — and it all starts with your skin barrier.

 

Why Winter Is So Tough on Your Skin

Cold air, harsh winds, and indoor heating all contribute to one major issue: a compromised skin barrier. When the skin barrier becomes dry or weakened, it can’t hold onto moisture or keep irritants out. This makes it easier for inflammation and conditions like eczema or perioral dermatitis to return with force.

Signs your barrier is under stress may include:

  • Itchy, red, or flaking skin
  • Tightness or stinging after cleansing
  • Patches of dryness or irritation
  • More frequent flare-ups of existing conditions


What Causes Winter Flare-Ups of Dermatitis and Eczema?

Winter skin issues are often triggered by:

  • Dry air (both outdoors and from heaters)
  • Hot showers that strip natural oils
  • Cold wind exposure, weakening the barrier
  • Poor hydration, inside and out
  • Incorrect skincare – harsh or stripping products

If you find yourself saying “my dermatitis comes back every winter,” it’s likely your skin barrier needs extra love and support during this time.

 

Prevention Is Powerful: How to Stay Ahead of Skin Flare-Ups

Preventing flare-ups doesn’t mean overloading your skin with products. It’s about being gentle, consistent, and barrier-focused. Here’s how to protect your skin this winter:

  • Switch to barrier-supportive skincare and avoid harsh cleansers
  • Avoid overly hot showers to prevent dehydration
  • Use lukewarm water to cleanse your skin
  • Apply products to damp skin to lock in hydration
  • Use a humidifier to reduce indoor dryness
  • Stay hydrated with plenty of water

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Nurture Your Skin with Our Fresh Face Skin Winter Favourites

We’ve created a winter-ready skincare solution that’s simple, natural, and effective. Whether you're managing perioral dermatitis, eczema, or just irritated skin, our barrier-focused products are designed to help strengthen and support your skin during the cooler months.

Barrier Mist

This lightweight, hydrating mist reinforces the skin barrier with anti-inflammatory botanicals. It calms, soothes, and hydrates without heaviness. Perfect for layering throughout the day to protect your skin against dry air and environmental stress.

Recovery Mask

Think of this as your skin’s reset button. Designed for dry, irritated, and inflamed skin, it delivers deep nourishment and reduces redness when your skin needs extra support or is in a flare. Use 1–2 times a week as a sleep mask for a soothing night treatment that restores comfort and glow.

Soother Cleanser & Soother Treatment

The perfect duo to calm, strengthen, and nourish. Designed for all skin types and concerns, these award-winning products offer extra support when your skin needs TLC, helping maintain a healthy barrier all year round.

Barrier Pack

Struggling with recurring winter flare-ups? The Barrier Pack includes our Soother Cleanser, Soother Treatment & Recovery Mask — a complete routine to repair and protect your skin all season long.

Real Stories from Our Community

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"I've struggled with eczema my whole life, but this is the first winter my skin hasn’t flared up. The Barrier Pack has changed everything." – Emily

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"The mist is incredible. So calming and hydrating. I use it morning and night during winter and my perioral dermatitis is finally under control." – Jayne

Explore the Barrier Range today and experience the difference natural, mindful skincare can make.  Shop the Barrier Collection

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