Written and reviewed by the pharmacist team at Stanmore Pharmacy. Last updated June 2026.

The short version: in winter, switch to a gentler cleanser and a richer moisturiser, keep showers short and lukewarm rather than long and hot, put moisturiser on while your skin is still damp, drink enough water, and keep using sunscreen. That last one surprises people, but in much of Australia the UV can still reach skin damaging levels in winter. Below we explain why, and walk through a simple routine you can actually stick to.

Here in Stanmore, the cold, dry air across the Inner West tends to leave skin feeling tight, flaky and itchy by mid winter. A few small changes make a big difference.

Why does my skin get so dry in winter?

Cold air holds less moisture, and that dries out your skin. Add cold winds outside and heating inside, and the air around you pulls water out of the skin faster than usual. This weakens the skin's natural barrier, the layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out. When that barrier is under pressure, skin can feel tight, rough, flaky and itchy. Sydney dermatologists and the Australasian College of Dermatologists point to this drop in temperature and humidity as the main reason skin struggles in the cooler months.

What does a good winter skin care routine look like?

It does not need to be complicated. A few consistent habits do most of the work.

• Use a gentle cleanser. Swap harsh, foaming or soap based washes for a gentle, soap free cleanser that does not strip your skin. This matters most on your face.
• Keep showers short and lukewarm. Long, hot showers feel great in winter, but they strip the natural oils your skin needs. Lukewarm water and a shorter shower are kinder to your skin.
• Moisturise while your skin is still damp. After you pat yourself dry, put your moisturiser on within a few minutes. This traps water in the skin rather than letting it evaporate.
• Go richer in winter. A light summer lotion often is not enough now. A thicker, creamier moisturiser holds moisture in for longer. Look for a fragrance free option if your skin is sensitive.
• Do not overdo exfoliation. Scrubbing too often can damage an already dry barrier. Ease off harsh scrubs and strong acids while your skin is dry.
• Look after lips and hands. These dry out and crack first. A lip balm and a hand cream you keep nearby make a real difference.

If you are not sure which products suit your skin, our pharmacists can help you pick a suitable cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen from our skin care range, or just have a chat in store.

Do I really need sunscreen in winter?

In most of Australia, yes. The thing to understand is that sun damage is driven by the UV index, not by how warm it feels. UV is not the same as heat, so a cold or cloudy day can still carry enough UV to damage your skin. Cancer Council advice is to protect your skin, sunscreen included, whenever the UV index is 3 or higher, at any time of year.

In Sydney, the UV often still reaches 3 or higher around the middle of the day in winter on clear days, so daily sunscreen still makes sense here. The current recommendation is a broad spectrum SPF 50 or higher, applied in the morning. This matters because Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. You can check the UV for the day on the free SunSmart app or at myuv.com.au. In the far south of the country, winter UV can drop below 3, and on those days sunscreen is not needed unless you are outside for long periods or near reflective surfaces like snow.

Can winter make eczema and other skin conditions worse?

Yes. Cold, dry air and a stressed skin barrier are a common trigger for flare ups. Skin clinics report seeing more eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis through winter. Eczema is very common in Australia, with national estimates suggesting around 2.8 million people are affected. healthdirect notes that with eczema the skin does not hold moisture well, so it becomes dry and easily irritated, and that moisturising regularly helps protect it.

For mild dryness, the routine above is a good start. If your skin is very itchy, painful, cracked, bleeding, or just not settling, see your doctor or pharmacist, since some conditions need specific treatment rather than moisturiser alone. Our team is happy to point you in the right direction.

Does drinking water and what I eat help my skin?

They help your overall health, which shows in your skin. People often drink less water in the cold because they do not feel thirsty, so keep a glass or bottle nearby. A varied diet with plenty of vegetables and fruit supports your skin along with the rest of you. For more on staying well through the season, see our guide on winter health tips.

Do not forget your skin checks

It is easy to cover up and forget about sun damage in winter, and skin clinics do see fewer skin checks in the cooler months. Skin cancers do not wait for summer though. Get to know your own skin, and see your doctor if you notice a new spot, or a mole or freckle that is changing in size, shape or colour.

How our pharmacists can help

Your local pharmacist is an easy first stop for everyday skin questions, with no appointment needed. We can help you choose a gentle cleanser, a suitable moisturiser and a sunscreen, and talk through simple steps for dry or irritated skin. For anything persistent or worrying, we will help you decide whether to see your doctor or a dermatologist. You will find us at Shop 12, 140 Percival Road, Stanmore, directly opposite Stanmore Station, and you can also get in touch here.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my skin so dry and itchy in winter?

Cold air holds less moisture, and heating and cold winds dry the air around you. This pulls water out of your skin and weakens its barrier, which leaves skin tight, flaky and itchy.

How often should I moisturise in winter?

At least once or twice a day, and always within a few minutes of a shower or washing, while your skin is still damp. Dry hands and lips may need topping up through the day.

Should I stop using sunscreen in winter?

In most of Australia, no. Sun protection is based on the UV index, not the temperature. Whenever the UV is 3 or higher, which it often is around midday in Sydney even in winter, sunscreen still helps protect your skin. Check the daily UV on the SunSmart app or at myuv.com.au.

Are hot showers bad for my skin?

Long, hot showers can strip the natural oils that keep your skin soft, which makes dryness worse. Shorter, lukewarm showers are gentler, and moisturising straight afterwards helps lock water in.

What kind of moisturiser is best in winter?

Generally a richer, thicker moisturiser than you might use in summer, and a fragrance free one if your skin is sensitive. If you are unsure what suits your skin, ask our pharmacist.

Can winter make my eczema worse?

Yes, flare ups are common in the cold. Moisturising regularly and avoiding triggers helps, but if your skin is very itchy, sore or not settling, see your doctor or pharmacist, as some flares need specific treatment.

Do I need to drink more water for my skin in winter?

It is easy to drink less when it is cold, so keeping your fluids up is sensible for your overall health. Moisturising and a gentle routine do the most direct work for dry winter skin.

This article is general information only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please speak with your pharmacist or doctor about your own skin. The team at Stanmore Pharmacy, opposite Stanmore Station, is happy to help.