Winter Skincare 101: How to Keep Your Skin Radiant Through the Chill
Winter has its charms - frosty mornings, cozy evenings, and perhaps even a snow-dusted getaway. But for your skin, this season is no holiday. Between the biting cold, central heating, and the reflection of UV rays on snow or water, your skin faces unique challenges. That’s why a solid winter skincare routine, complete with SPF and hydration, is your ultimate ally.
Here’s how to keep your skin glowing, hydrated, and protected all season long - with help from our treatments and expertly curated SPF products at Pfeffer Sal.
Why SPF is Essential, Even in Winter
When it comes to sun protection, winter can be deceptive. While we may not feel the warmth of the summer sun, UV rays remain active and can be just as harmful.
1. UVA Rays Are Year-Round
UVA rays - the primary culprits behind premature aging - are present every day, regardless of temperature or weather. They penetrate clouds, glass, and even the deeper layers of skin, causing oxidative stress, a process where free radicals overwhelm your skin's defences, leading to cell damage, fine lines, and pigmentation. Over time, this damage weakens the skin's structure, making sun protection crucial even in colder months.
2. Snow Can Double Your UV Exposure
Snow and ice reflect up to 80% of UV rays , exposing your skin to indirect sunlight. This increases the likelihood of damage, especially on ski slopes, where UV rays bounce back at you from every angle.
3. High Altitudes Amplify UV Intensity
If you’re heading to higher altitudes for skiing or hiking, the thinner atmosphere provides less UV filtration. For every 1,000 meters above sea level, UV radiation increases by about 10–12% , making sun protection absolutely non-negotiable.
The Best SPFs for Winter Sun
Protecting your skin doesn’t mean compromising on nourishment. These sun protection products not only shield but also hydrate and nurture your skin.
LESSE Every Tone SPF 30
A mineral, nano-zinc sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection while hydrating and calming the skin. Packed with plant-based antioxidants, it’s perfect for anyone looking for lightweight, everyday protection that suits all skin tones.
Esse Sunscreen SPF 30
This ultra-gentle, probiotic-enriched sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection while reinforcing your skin’s barrier. Ideal for sensitive or reactive skin types, it also layers effortlessly under makeup.
Synergie UberZinc SPF 15
Combining physical UV blockers with anti-inflammatory properties, this zinc-based formula not only protects but also soothes and hydrates. Perfect for drier or redness-prone winter skin.
*For prolonged sun exposure, we recommend pairing UberZinc with an SPF30 or higher for optimal protection.
Le Prunier Plumscreen SPF 31
This multitasking sunscreen blends 100% mineral UV filters with Le Prunier’s signature antioxidant-rich plum oil. The result? A velvety texture, hydrating properties, and a healthy, luminous finish.
SPF Application Tips for Winter
Layer It Right: Apply your SPF as the final step in your morning skincare routine, after moisturising.
Reapply: If you’re outdoors for extended periods - especially in snowy or high-altitude settings - reapply SPF every two hours.
Don’t Forget These Spots: Pay extra attention to the nose, under the chin, and even under your sunglasses. These areas are particularly prone to being missed.
Hydrate, Protect, and Glow: Your Winter Skincare Routine
Step 1: Double Down on Hydration
Winter weather demands extra care for your skin, making hydration, barrier repair, and nourishment non-negotiable. Start your routine with the Esse Sensitive Cleanser, a gentle yet effective option that removes impurities without stripping, ensuring your skin barrier stays intact during colder months.
Hydration is key, and the Lesse Regeneration Mist offers a refreshing burst of moisture while prepping the skin for further products. Follow up with Cosmetics 27 Baume 27, a deeply revitalising cream packed with antioxidants and repairing ingredients that soothe and strengthen the skin. For an extra moisture boost, apply the MAY Botanicals Golden Hour Facial Oil, a luxurious oil designed to calm and protect the skin barrier. To address sensitivity and redness, finish with Synergie DermaCalm, a calming moisturiser that hydrates and reduces irritation.
For an extra boost of overnight nourishment, treat your skin to the Wildsmith Super Hydrating Overnight Mask, a rich, restorative treatment that replenishes moisture while you sleep, leaving your skin soft, plump, and ready to face the elements.
Step 2: Incorporate Skin-Loving Facials
Pfeffer Sal’s treatments are tailored to give your skin exactly what it needs during the colder months. Here are our top picks for winter, when you can handle the additional downtime or when your skin needs some extra TLC:
Fitzrovia Facial
This combines ClearLift laser and Near Infrared (NIR) for plumping, toning, and contouring, while boosting hydration. It’s a winter multitasker - leaving skin refreshed, radiant, and prepped for SPF.Gentle Facial
Ideal for sensitive or windburned skin, this treatment soothes irritation and restores the skin barrier with probiotics and hydration.iPixel Face
Perfect for combating dullness and dryness, this fractional resurfacing treatment boosts collagen production and enhances elasticity, delivering transformative results.-
ClearLift + ClearSkin Facial
An excellent option for congested skin, this treatment clears pores and refines texture, leaving your skin prepped and flawless for any winter adventure.
Elevate Your Winter Skincare at Pfeffer Sal
This winter, let your skincare routine be as luxurious as your favourite cashmere jumper. Whether you’re facing the city’s chill or embracing alpine adventures, our facials and SPF collection are here to protect and perfect your skin.
Stop by our clinic to explore these winter must-haves, or book a treatment today to keep your skin radiant and hydrated - even in the frostiest months.
If you have any questions, you can always reach us at hello@pfeffersal.com or +44 (0) 203 8834 702.
