Winter Skin Survival: Expert Tips from Palestra’s Estheticians
Winter in Charlotte might be milder than northern cities, but don't let the occasional sunny day fool you; the season still challenges your skin in unique ways. Cold outdoor air combined with indoor heating creates the perfect storm for dehydration, flakiness, and that uncomfortable, tight feeling that no amount of drugstore lotion seems to fix.
After nearly three decades of treating Charlotte skin through every season, our estheticians at Palestra have seen it all. Here's what actually works to keep your skin healthy, comfortable, and glowing through winter.
The Winter Hydration Strategy
The biggest mistake people make is treating winter skin with the same routine they used all summer. Your skin's needs change dramatically when humidity drops and temperatures fluctuate between cold outdoor air and heated indoor spaces.
Our estheticians recommend switching to richer, more emollient products that create a protective barrier against moisture loss. This doesn't necessarily mean buying entirely new products; often, it's about layering: a hydrating serum under your regular moisturizer, followed by a face oil to seal everything in. Think of it like wearing layers of clothing to stay warm.
Professional Treatments That Make a Difference
While a solid home routine is essential, winter is when professional facial treatments truly shine. Our seasonal hydrating facials use Sothys products specifically formulated to replenish moisture deep in the skin's layers, something surface-level moisturizers alone can't achieve.
During your facial, we assess your skin's current condition and customize the treatment accordingly. Some clients need extra exfoliation to remove the buildup of dry, dead cells that make skin look dull. Others require intensive hydration masks that plump and restore radiance. Many benefit from both, applied to different areas based on their skin's varying needs.
The Often-Overlooked Culprits
Your winter skin problems might not be coming from where you think. Hot showers feel amazing on cold mornings, but they strip your skin of its natural protective oils. Our estheticians recommend lukewarm water and applying moisturizer to slightly damp skin to lock in hydration.
Indoor heating is another major factor. If possible, use a humidifier in your bedroom at night to combat the dry air. Your skin does most of its repair work while you sleep, and providing it with a more humid environment significantly supports that process.
Don't Forget Sun Protection
Yes, even in winter. Charlotte's sunny winter days might not feel intense, but UV rays damage your skin year-round. Many of the hydrating products we recommend include SPF, making protection effortless. UV exposure accelerates aging and disrupts your skin's moisture barrier—precisely what you're working to protect in winter.
The bottom line? Winter skin survival isn't about suffering through dry, uncomfortable skin until spring arrives. With the right combination of professional treatments and adjusted home care, your skin can look and feel its best all season long. Our estheticians are always happy to provide personalized recommendations during your facial, because healthy skin is always in season.
