The skin barrier in winter: how to keep it healthy

Winter is the season when our skin understands a simple truth: the wind doesn't ask if you have time for a routine. Cold, dry air, heating, hotter showers and "let's have another acid, my face is looking gray"... and suddenly the skin tightens, flakes, turns red and starts reacting to everything.

In most cases, the problem is not “bad skin.” The problem is a tired skin barrier.

What exactly is the skin barrier (and why is it so important)?

The skin barrier is the top protective layer of the skin – the “shield” that:

• retains moisture inside ,

• protects against external aggressors (cold, wind, pollution, allergens),

• reduces sensitivity and irritation .

When the barrier is healthy, skin looks calm, smooth, and “full.” When it’s compromised, the drama begins.

Why are the cold months the biggest test for the barrier?

The most common "winter saboteurs" are:

• cold + wind → drying and micro-irritations

• heating and low humidity → skin loses water faster

• hot showers → lipids in the barrier are diluted

• too aggressive cleansing/exfoliation → “squeaky clean” = often “bare”

And yes, there's another classic trap in winter: "If I'm not sweating, then I don't need hydration." (That's exactly when you do.)

Signs that your barrier needs help

If you recognize yourself in 2–3 of these, it's probably time for "barrier mode":

• tightening after washing

• peeling around the nose/mouth

• burning from products that were previously ok

• redness and reactivity

• the makeup is smudging

• feeling dry even though you apply cream

How to protect the barrier in winter: 6 working rules

1. Gentle cleansing

2. Hydration of layers

3. Lipids + Ceramides

4. Soothing formulas

5. SPF even in winter

6. Less active ingredients when skin protests

Why are Antonia Beauty products specialized in skin barrier care?

At Antonia Beauty, we chose Zipiderm because the line was created with a clear direction: restoring and strengthening the skin barrier , especially for sensitive and irritated skin. The brand was developed by Celltrion Skincure (part of Celltrion Inc.) and, according to the manufacturer, has a large R&D base behind it, including a claimed 89,880 hours of development .

Tips for a winter routine

Morning

1) Cleaning

If your skin is sensitive, the most important thing is not to “exfoliate it to the point of squeaking.” Zipiderm Cleansing Foam is gentle, has a slightly acidic pH, is hypoallergenic, and has an instant effect on skin irritated by physical irritation.

2) Cream-toner (the first “shield” after water)

Zipiderm Cream Toner is one of those products that makes the skin stop “crying.” The description emphasizes nanoliposomal ceramide and soothing, plus clinically claimed rapid visible change after application.

3) SPF

Zipiderm Sun Cream has SPF50+ / PA++++ and is positioned as a sun protection that both supports the barrier and is suitable for sensitive skin.

Evening: recovery + “locking in” moisture

1) Cleaning

Again, gently - this is the basis of the barrier.

2) Ampoule (when there is dehydration/tightness)

Zipiderm Hydro Ampoule is a concentrated care for a weak and damaged barrier , with “Double Barriering” technology and 5 types of ceramide complexes , plus active ingredients for hydration and elasticity.

3) Intensive cream

Zipiderm Intensive Cream is formulated as intensive barrier care and according to the description, it has a claimed 100 hours of hydration and a rapid effect on barrier restoration.

4) Mask (1–3 times a week when skin is “in winter mode”)

Zipiderm Dressing Mask Pack is deeply hydrating, soothing and aimed at supporting barrier repair , including redness and discomfort.

Mini-guidelines according to the situation

• If skin is peeling/flaking → temporarily reduce acids/retinol and switch to a “barrier routine” for 7–14 days.

• If you have very reactive skin → keep the routine simple: cleansing + toner + cream (and SPF in the morning).

• If the problem is severe redness, eczema, or cracking → it is a good idea to consult a dermatologist (the barrier is cosmetic, but diagnoses are medical work).