Winter in Edmonton isn’t just cold — it’s skin-punishing.
The freezing temperatures, low humidity, and blasting indoor heat create the perfect recipe for dryness, redness, flaking, and irritation .
If you’re wondering why your skin suddenly feels tight, itchy, or painfully dry every winter, here’s what’s really happening — and what you can do to protect your skin through Edmonton’s harshest months.
Why Edmonton Winters Dry Out Your Skin So Fast
Edmonton’s climate is one of the driest in Canada, especially between November and March. Skin loses moisture faster because:
1. Cold Air Holds Almost No Humidity
When temperatures drop below zero, outdoor air becomes extremely dry — pulling moisture out of your skin.
2. Indoor Heating Makes It Even Worse
Forced-air heating reduces indoor humidity even further, causing your skin to feel tight and flaky.
3. Wind Exposure Damages the Skin Barrier
Our famous Alberta winds remove protective oils and increase irritation.
4. Hot Showers Strip Your Skin
They feel great, but they evaporate moisture and weaken your skin barrier.
This combination makes Edmonton one of the toughest climates for winter skincare.
Build a Winter Skincare Routine That Actually Works in Edmonton
Here are changes that make the biggest difference during deep winter.
1. Switch to a Gentle, Hydrating Cleanser
Foaming cleansers can strip your skin’s natural oils. Look for:
✔ Cream cleansers
✔ Milk cleansers
✔ Balm cleansers
They cleanse without drying your skin out.
2. Use a Richer Moisturizer
In winter, lightweight lotions often aren’t enough. Instead, choose moisturizers that include:
- Ceramides (repair the skin barrier)
- Hyaluronic acid (boost hydration)
- Squalane (locks in moisture)
- Glycerin (attracts water to the skin)
Tip: Apply moisturizer on slightly damp skin to trap moisture.
3. Add a Hydrating Serum
Humectants draw water into your skin — crucial in dry climates. Great ingredients for Edmonton winters:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Niacinamide
- Panthenol
- Beta-glucan
Avoid strong exfoliating serums if your skin is irritated.
4. Reduce Exfoliation
Over-exfoliating in winter damages your skin barrier. Cut back to:
- 1–2 times per week
- Avoid harsh scrubs
- Stick to gentle AHAs or PHAs
If your skin looks red, irritated, or flaky, exfoliate less, not more.
5. Protect Your Skin From the Wind
The wind chill in Edmonton is brutal. Before heading outdoors:
- Apply a thick moisturizer or barrier balm
- Wear a scarf over your face
- Choose wind-resistant outerwear
This helps prevent windburn and cracking.
6. Use Sunscreen — Yes, Even in Winter
UV rays reflect off snow and damage the skin year-round. Choose:
- SPF 30 or higher
- Mineral sunscreen if you have sensitive skin
- Lightweight formulas layered over moisturizer
7. Boost Indoor Humidity
Your skin needs moisture in the air to stay hydrated. Easy fixes:
- Use a humidifier (especially at night)
- Avoid overheating your home
- Drink more water
- Keep showers warm, not hot
Best Ingredients for Edmonton Winter Skincare
We asked the team at PURA Botanicals what it truly takes to protect, hydrate, and replenish skin in harsh, dry climates.
“This northern environment inspires many of the formulas we create, resulting in nutrient-rich, moisture-locking skincare that performs when temperatures plunge,” says Marla Boehr – Senior Marketing & Community Manager
Two of their winter favouriutes include the Overnight Watermelon Mask, a soothing, quenching treatment that restores radiance and deep hydration while you sleep and can also be applied during the day as a barrier against the elements. Also the new Raspbarrier Cleansing Dew, a velvety, antioxidant-rich cleansing oil that strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier instead of stripping it which is key during the dry winter months.
Look for products with:
- Ceramides
- Squalane
- Shea butter
- Hyaluronic acid
- Urea (2–5%)
- Niacinamide
- Fatty alcohols (cetyl, cetearyl)
Avoid or decrease:
- Strong retinoids
- Alcohol-heavy toners
- Harsh scrubs
- Heavy fragrance
- Overuse of acids
FAQ: Winter Skincare in Edmonton
Why is Edmonton so dry in winter?
Cold air can’t hold moisture, and indoor heating removes even more humidity, causing rapid moisture loss from the skin.
How do I stop my skin from cracking in winter?
Use a thicker moisturizer with ceramides, wear protective clothing outdoors, and avoid long, hot showers.
Do I really need sunscreen in winter?
Yes. UVA rays are present year-round and bounce off snow, increasing exposure.
What’s the best moisturizer for Edmonton winters?
Look for barrier-repair creams containing ceramides, squalane, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid.
Final Thoughts
Edmonton’s winter is no joke — but your skincare routine doesn’t have to suffer. With the right products, protective habits, and a little extra hydration, you can keep your skin healthy, calm, and glowing all season long.
