Winter is the season of warm drinks, cozy blankets… and skin that suddenly looks dull, dry, or flaky. If your complexion has been feeling a little off lately, exfoliation could help bring back your natural glow.
But here's the catch: exfoliating in winter is a bit different from summer. You want to refresh your skin, not irritate it.
So how often should you exfoliate in the colder months? And how can you do it without upsetting your skin's delicate balance? Let’s break it down.
Why Skin Gets Dull in Winter
Before we talk about exfoliation routines, it's helpful to understand what’s actually happening with your skin in winter:
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Lower humidity levels dry out the skin, leading to flakiness
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Heaters pull moisture from the air and your skin
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Hot showers (we get it!) can weaken your skin’s barrier
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Slower cell turnover can cause buildup on the skin’s surface
All of this can make your complexion look dull, uneven, or tired—even when you’re staying hydrated and using good skincare.
That’s where exfoliation comes in.
How Exfoliation Helps in Winter
Exfoliation gently removes the outer layer of dead skin cells, helping your skincare products absorb better and making your skin look smoother and brighter.
When done correctly, exfoliating:
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Helps prevent dry patches from building up.
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Smooths rough texture from cold-weather exposure.
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Enhances your glow naturally
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Prepares your skin for richer moisturizers and serums.
But in the winter, more is not better. Sensitive, dry, or combination skin needs a softer approach.
So, How Often Should You Exfoliate in Winter?
The answer depends on your skin type, but in general:
For Sensitive or Dry Skin:
1x per week is plenty. Stick to ultra-gentle options like Pink Clay Soap paired with a natural loofah or soft washcloth. Avoid strong acids or scrubs that can compromise your barrier.
For Normal or Combination Skin:
1–2x per week. Try alternating between a gentle exfoliating soap and a more moisturizing bar. You’ll get the benefits of exfoliation while keeping your skin balanced.
For Oily Skin:
2x per week. In winter, oily skin still needs exfoliation, but you might notice fewer breakouts and less shine. Stick with purifying ingredients like charcoal, sage, or tea tree, and balance with moisture-rich oils like jojoba.
Signs You're Over-Exfoliating
Even in winter, it’s easy to go overboard, especially if your skin feels dry and rough.
Watch out for:
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Redness or increased sensitivity.
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Tight, itchy skin that doesn’t feel better after moisturizing.
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Flaking or small breakouts that don’t clear up.
If any of this sounds familiar, give your skin a break and double down on hydration.
Pro Tips for Glowing Skin All Winter
Here are a few bonus habits to keep your skin happy and glowing, even when the temperature drops:
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Switch to lukewarm water. Hot water feels good, but strips skin of natural oils.
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Moisturize immediately after bathing. Apply while skin is still damp to lock in hydration.
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Use a humidifier. Adding moisture to dry indoor air helps prevent dry skin at the source.
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Choose products without harsh detergents or fragrance. Our soaps are made with plant-based oils and butters that your skin will love.
What Makes Our Soaps Winter-Friendly?
At Butter & Lye, we create exfoliating soaps that are as gentle as they are effective. No harsh chemicals, no microbeads, and no synthetic fragrance.
Shop our winter ritual:
