If you’ve spent more than one winter in Edmonton, you know the drill — the air gets crisp, the snow piles up, and suddenly your skin feels like it’s been living in a desert.
Between freezing outdoor temperatures, low humidity, and indoor heating, winter in Alberta can be brutal on your skin. Dryness, redness, flakiness, and irritation all become part of the seasonal struggle. But with a few smart adjustments to your routine, you can help your skin stay hydrated, protected, and glowing all winter long.
Here are the top skincare tips for surviving (and thriving) through an Edmonton winter — because your skin deserves to feel as healthy as you do.
1. Hydration Starts From the Inside Out
The first rule of winter skincare? Moisture matters — and not just from your moisturizer. When it’s cold outside, we naturally drink less water, which can leave both your body and your skin dehydrated.
Simple ways to stay hydrated:
- Drink warm water or herbal tea throughout the day — it’s comforting and hydrating.
- Add electrolytes if you work out indoors or notice your skin looking dull.
- Eat water-rich foods like cucumber, oranges, and soups with broth bases.
And yes, coffee lovers — caffeine can be mildly dehydrating, so balance your lattes with an extra glass of water.
YEG Thrive Tip: Keep a reusable water bottle with you during the day. If you’re teaching a class or seeing clients, having it nearby is a visual reminder to sip regularly.
2. Switch to a Richer Moisturizer
That light lotion that worked perfectly in July probably won’t cut it in January. Edmonton’s dry winter air pulls moisture from your skin, so it’s time to upgrade your moisturizer.
What to look for:
- Ceramides and hyaluronic acid – help your skin retain water.
- Squalane and glycerin – attract and lock in moisture.
- Shea butter or jojoba oil – create a protective barrier against wind and cold.
For daytime, use a hydrating cream instead of a gel. At night, opt for something richer and restorative.
YEG Thrive Tip: Apply your moisturizer within 30 seconds of washing your face or showering to seal in hydration before it evaporates.
3. Don’t Skip Sunscreen (Even When It’s -20°C)
It might seem counterintuitive, but the winter sun — especially when it reflects off snow — can still damage your skin. UV rays don’t take a break in cold weather.
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even if it’s cloudy.
- Choose a hydrating formula with added antioxidants to protect against free radicals.
- Don’t forget your neck, ears, and the tops of your hands — they’re often exposed in winter.
Pro tip: Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide tend to be less irritating on dry or sensitive skin.
4. Shorten Your Showers (and Skip the Scalding Water)
We all love a long, hot shower after braving Edmonton’s freezing winds — but here’s the catch: hot water strips your skin’s natural oils, making dryness worse.
Try this instead:
- Keep showers under 10 minutes.
- Use lukewarm water — enough to feel warm, but not hot.
- Switch to a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
- Pat skin dry (don’t rub!) and apply moisturizer immediately after.
If your skin feels tight or itchy after bathing, that’s your cue that the water was too hot or your cleanser too harsh.
5. Use a Humidifier Indoors
Edmonton’s indoor heating systems are notorious for sucking the moisture out of the air.
Running a humidifier adds humidity back, helping prevent dry skin, chapped lips, and even nosebleeds.
Ideal humidity range:
- Keep your indoor humidity between 40–50% for comfort and skin health.
Place a humidifier in your bedroom at night or near your workspace during the day — your skin (and sinuses) will thank you.
YEG Thrive Tip: Add a few drops of essential oil like lavender or eucalyptus to your humidifier’s diffuser tray for a spa-like experience and a little relaxation boost.
6. Protect Lips, Hands, and Other “High Exposure” Areas
Some body parts get hit harder by Edmonton’s climate than others. Lips, hands, and cheeks often suffer the most because they’re constantly exposed to the cold and wind.
Quick fixes:
- Lips: Use a thick balm with beeswax, lanolin, or shea butter. Avoid menthol or camphor, which can be irritating.
- Hands: Apply hand cream every time you wash. Keep a mini tube in your bag and car.
- Face: Use a barrier cream before heading outdoors, especially if you’re skiing or running in the cold.
YEG Thrive Tip: Overnight treatments aren’t just for your face. Apply a thick layer of balm to your hands and feet, then wear cotton gloves or socks to lock in moisture while you sleep.
7. Gentle Exfoliation Is Your Winter Friend (Used Wisely)
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells that can make your complexion look dull — but go easy.
Over-exfoliation during dry months can damage your skin barrier.
How to exfoliate smartly:
- Use a gentle chemical exfoliant (like lactic acid or PHA) once or twice a week.
- Avoid harsh scrubs with large granules or rough particles.
- Always follow with a nourishing moisturizer or hydrating mask.
If you notice stinging or redness, pull back. Your skin barrier is your best defense against Edmonton’s dry air — don’t strip it away.
8. Feed Your Skin from the Inside
Healthy skin starts with what you eat.
Winter can make it harder to get fresh produce, but your skin still craves nutrients.
Focus on foods rich in:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, flaxseed, chia) – to strengthen your skin barrier.
- Vitamin C (bell peppers, citrus fruits, broccoli) – to support collagen production.
- Vitamin E (almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach) – for antioxidant protection.
If your skin is chronically dry, talk to a nutritionist or naturopath about supplements — sometimes internal hydration makes all the difference.
9. Don’t Forget Rest and Stress Management
Yes, even your stress levels show up on your skin.
Cold weather, shorter days, and holiday chaos can throw off your sleep and stress balance, leading to breakouts and dullness.
Try incorporating small daily rituals to calm your nervous system:
- Evening journaling or gratitude lists.
- 10 minutes of yoga or meditation.
- A tech-free wind-down before bed.
Because radiant skin isn’t just about products — it’s about overall wellness.
10. When to See a Professional
If you’ve tried all the right products and your skin is still struggling — think painful dryness, redness, flaking, or eczema flare-ups — it’s time to call in expert support.
Local Edmonton dermatologists, medical spas, and skin clinics can help identify underlying causes and recommend treatments like:
- Professional hydrating facials
- LED light therapy
- Prescription barrier creams
Sometimes the best self-care move is asking for professional help — especially in harsh climates.
Final Thoughts
Edmonton winters are tough — but your skin doesn’t have to suffer through them.
With a few mindful changes to your routine, you can protect your skin’s barrier, maintain hydration, and feel confident no matter how frosty it gets outside.
The key is consistency — small, simple habits practiced daily. Drink water, moisturize mindfully, humidify your space, and treat your skin kindly.
Because thriving through an Edmonton winter isn’t just about surviving the cold — it’s about taking care of yourself, inside and out.
