Winter is coming—and while that might sound chic in a Game of Thrones kind of way, your skin is probably less excited. Cold winds, central heating, and zero sunlight mean one thing: dull, dry, irritated skin. But don’t worry—we’ve got the winter skincare playbook ready.

Step 1: Double down on hydration.
Your lightweight summer gel moisturizer isn’t going to cut it. Swap in a richer cream with ceramides or hyaluronic acid (think La Roche-Posay Toleriane or Augustinus Bader’s Rich Cream).

Step 2: Exfoliate—but gently.
Flakiness doesn’t look good with any outfit. Use a mild exfoliant like Paula’s Choice 2% BHA or a lactic acid serum to buff away dead cells without stripping your glow.

Step 3: Oil up.
Face oils aren’t scary, promise. A few drops of squalane or rosehip oil can lock in moisture and leave you looking more runway dewy than radiator dry.

Step 4: Don’t ditch SPF.
Yes, even in winter. UV rays don’t hibernate, and neither should your sunscreen. Go for a hydrating formula that doubles as a shield.

Step 5: Body talk.
Your face isn’t the only thing that deserves love. Slather on body butter or a luxe cream (we love Kiehl’s Soy Milk & Honey Whipped Body Butter).

Winter skin is all about prevention, not panic. Prep now, and you’ll be glowing while everyone else is crying into their dry lattes.