Connecting Filipinos in Finland
Winter is here! If you’re a Filipino living in Europe and bracing for your first chilly season, your skin might already be feeling the effects. Coming from a tropical climate, adjusting to cold, dry weather can be tough. But with the right products, your skin can stay soft, hydrated, and healthy through it all. Here’s your guide to surviving (and thriving!) in winter with glowing skin.
1. Gentle Cleanser: Be Kind to Your Skin
Winter air is harsh enough—it’s not the time for cleansers that leave your face feeling tight and dry. Look for creamy, non-drying formulas that gently cleanse without stripping your natural oils.
Top Picks: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser or Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Budget: €10–€15
Pro Tip: Use lukewarm water when washing your face. Hot water feels cozy but dries your skin out even more.
2. Thick Moisturizer: Your Winter Shield
Cold weather calls for an upgrade to your moisturizer. Go for thick, rich creams that create a barrier to keep moisture in and dryness out.
Top Picks: Nivea Soft Cream, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, or La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm
Budget: €12–€20
Pro Tip: Apply moisturizer immediately after showering or cleansing to seal in hydration.
3. Sunscreen: Yes, Even in Winter
Snow and cloudy skies don’t stop harmful UV rays, and in fact, snow can reflect UV rays back at you. Sunscreen is just as important in winter as it is in summer.
Top Picks: Biore UV Aqua Rich or La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF 50
Budget: €15–€25
Pro Tip: Apply sunscreen daily, even when it’s gloomy outside.
4. Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Your Hydration Booster
Hyaluronic acid is like a drink of water for your skin. It attracts moisture and helps keep your skin plump and hydrated even in the driest conditions.
Top Picks: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 or Vichy Mineral 89
Budget: €8–€25
Pro Tip: Layer it under your moisturizer for an extra hydration boost.
5. Lip Balm: Say Goodbye to Chapped Lips
Dry, cracked lips are one of the most common (and annoying) winter skin issues. A nourishing lip balm can prevent and heal damage from cold winds and dry air.
Top Picks: Vaseline Lip Therapy or Burt’s Bees Lip Balm
Budget: €3–€8
Pro Tip: Reapply frequently, especially after eating or being outside in the cold.
6. Body Lotion: Care for the Rest of Your Skin
Winter dryness doesn’t stop at your face. A good body lotion will prevent itchy, flaky skin on your arms, legs, and everywhere else.
Top Picks: Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion or Nivea Rich Nourishing Body Lotion
Budget: €8–€15
Pro Tip: Use lotion while your skin is still slightly damp after showering for better absorption.
7. Hand Cream: Keep Your Hands Happy
Your hands are exposed to the elements and constant washing, making them extra prone to dryness and cracking. A rich hand cream will keep them soft and protected.
Top Picks: Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream or L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream
Budget: €5–€20
Pro Tip: Apply hand cream after washing your hands and before going outside.
8. Facial Oil: Lock in Moisture
Facial oils add an extra layer of nourishment to your winter routine, sealing in moisture and giving your skin a soft, dewy finish.
Top Picks: The Ordinary 100% Organic Rosehip Oil or Bio-Oil Skincare Oil
Budget: €8–€20
Pro Tip: Pat a few drops onto your skin after moisturizer, especially at night.
9. Overnight Hydrating Mask: Wake Up Glowing
Winter nights can dry out your skin, so treat yourself to a deeply hydrating overnight mask once or twice a week. You’ll wake up with soft, supple skin.
Top Picks: Laneige Water Sleeping Mask or Neutrogena Hydro Boost Overnight Mask
Budget: €15–€30
Pro Tip: Think of this as a mini self-care ritual—apply before bed and let the mask do its magic.
10. Gentle Exfoliator: Say Goodbye to Dull Skin
Winter slows down skin cell turnover, which can leave your skin looking dull. A gentle exfoliator will help remove dead skin cells without causing irritation.
Top Picks: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner or COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Toner
Budget: €10–€18
Pro Tip: Use sparingly—once a week is enough to keep your skin glowing without overdoing it.
Winter in Europe may feel intimidating at first, but it’s also a season of cozy nights, festive celebrations, and snowy landscapes. Taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be a chore—it’s a way to feel confident and comfortable as you enjoy the magic of the season. So layer up, pamper yourself, and let your skin thrive in the cold!