The Best Beauty Finds for Winter Skin
Upgrade your routine with these gentle cleansers and superstar moisturizers
The chill outside and the dry warm air inside can lead to a complexion that’s in need of some love. Now is the perfect time to indulge in some skin-nourishing self-care.
Shoppers Beauty Pro Shayne Fukala says that gentle, hydrating formulas and balms make great additions to any routine. “For winter, I recommend cleansers that won’t strip the skin’s natural oils or leave skin feeling tight and dry,” he says.
Want to learn more about your skin’s particular needs? Check out the virtual skin analysis tool from Shoppers Drug Mart to learn more about the health of your skin and get personalized product recommendations. In the meantime, check out Fukala’s top picks and tips for winter skincare.
Clean Slate
Soap & Glory Glow Your Mind Nourishing Cleansing Balm, $23
Take the day off with this gentle balm, formulated with soothing avocado oil and brightening vitamin C. It breaks down makeup—even waterproof formulas—without leaving any residue or tightness behind.
“This balm is like a nourishing smoothie for your face,” says Fukala. “I love the texture that literally melts into the skin and breaks down makeup without feeling greasy.” It can be used on its own or as a first step in a double cleansing routine, he adds. Fukala recommends applying the balm with your fingertips and massaging it onto the skin in circular motions. To remove mascara, “apply gently to lashes and leave it on a bit longer, then gently twirl the lashes with your finger instead of rubbing them.”
Sensitive Skin Soother
Pacifica Vegan Ceramide Extra Gentle Face Wash, $14.99
This gentle, sulphate-free cleanser is made with marshmallow root extract and calendula to calm your complexion while vegan ceramides support the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
“This is a great cleanser (with no added fragrance) for dry or sensitive skin,” Fukala says. “The gentle foaming action works well to remove makeup and impurities without stripping the skin. This type of cream cleanser is also ideal for use with skin cleansing devices.”
Hydrating Hero
Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Serum, $140
Ideal for normal to extra dry skin types, this milky serum firms and moisturizes with wheat bran, meadowfoam seed oil and olive extract complex. It also improves the look of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
“This luxurious serum helps your skin look smoother and feel hydrated throughout the entire day,” Says Fukala. Another pro tip: “You can use a serum both day and night, as long as you apply moisturizer on top. Apply serum to tips of fingers and massage it upwards (going against gravity) on the face, neck and décolleté.”
Calming Cream
Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream, $19.99
Get a major hydration boost with this innovative, fast-absorbing daily moisturizer. Made for all skin types, the cooling gel-cream texture works to hydrate and calm skin, thanks to powerhouse ingredients like green tea and aloe vera.
“A moisturizer doesn’t have to be thick and heavy to be effective,” Fukala points out. “This lightweight, soothing formula is soft and easily absorbed, and will help all skin types to stay hydrated.” Aloe vera and green tea make this cream ideal for acne-prone or congested skin, he says. “I also find it has a mattifying effect on oily skin.” This gel-cream is suitable for day or night, says Fukala, “so feel free to mix and match your moisturizers. If you enjoy this calming formula at night, you might want to consider a day cream with vitamin C for brightness.”
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