10 protection secrets for smooth, glowing skin in cold weather

• Moisturise your skin immediately after washing

After cleansing, the skin is especially receptive to active ingredients. Apply your moisturiser or body lotion straight onto skin that is still slightly damp so water is retained optimally. This prevents tightness and reliably protects the skin from drying out.

• Choose richer care formulas

In winter your skin needs significantly more lipids than in summer. Reach for creams with shea butter, almond oil or ceramides that build a protective barrier against cold and wind. Pharmacies stock winter creams specially developed for different skin types.

• Use lukewarm water instead of hot

Hot water strips the skin of valuable fats and weakens its protective barrier. Wash your face and body with lukewarm water to help prevent dryness and itching. Your skin will remain more supple and less sensitive.

• Strengthen your skin from the inside as well

A balanced diet decisively supports winter skincare. Omega‑3 fatty acids from nuts, plant oils or fish promote skin elasticity, while vitamins from vegetables and berries protect against premature ageing. Nourishing your skin from within leads to visibly better care results.

• Don't forget sun protection

Even in winter your skin is exposed to UV radiation — snow in particular reflects and intensifies it. Use a daily day cream with sun protection to guard against premature ageing and pigment spots. Pharmacy and drugstore offer specially matched products for this.

• Protect hands and lips especially well

Hands and lips have only a weak natural protective barrier and dry out particularly quickly in winter. Use a rich hand cream regularly and a lip care product with nourishing waxes and panthenol. This effectively prevents cracks, pain and inflammation.

• Stabilise the indoor climate

Dry heating air continuously removes moisture from the skin. A humidifier or a bowl of water on the radiator can noticeably improve the indoor climate. Your skin will stay hydrated longer and be less sensitive.

• Care for your face in a targeted way

In winter, opt for gentle, alcohol‑free cleansers to avoid additional irritation. Complement your routine with hydrating serums, masks or soothing actives such as panthenol or hyaluronic acid. You can get competent advice on these products at your pharmacy.

• Shower shorter and more consciously

Long showers greatly dry out the skin — especially if taken daily. Reduce shower time and choose relipidating shower oils or cream washes. This helps preserve your skin's natural protective layer better.

• React immediately to first signs of winter stress

Redness, itching or flaky patches are clear warning signs from your skin. Treat these areas early with reparative ointments to prevent chronic irritation.