When getting out of bed on cold mornings feels like an Olympic sport, and the sun sets before 5pm, spending extra time on your self-care and wellness routine may be the last thing on your mind! But here’s the thing — winter is actually the time to hit reset and treat yourself to some extra self-love. With the right mindset (and a few essentials), you can slow down, get cozy, and just maybe, turn winter into your favourite season. Keep reading to get our recommendations for soothing skincare, nourishing self-care, and comforting rituals for winter wellness.
1. Hydrate your skin.
Winter weather might be brutal, but your skincare routine doesn’t have to be! Combat the dryness, irritation, and general meh that comes with the season by turning up your skincare for a cold-weather glow-up. For your face, swap out your lightweight moisturizer for a thicker, creamier option (especially at night!) and layer a hydrating serum underneath for an extra moisture boost. And don’t let those grey skies fool you — SPF is a non-negotiable, even in winter! Pair it with an SPF lip balm to keep your lips smooth and healthy in spite of the icy winds. Feeling fancy? Treat yourself to a weekly face mask to give your skin an extra boost of moisture. Bonus points if you pair it with a luxurious bubble bath! For your body, go all in with rich hand creams and buttery body lotions. Think of it as wrapping your skin in its own protective layer to help keep all that moisture in. And let’s not forget the ultimate winter beauty hack: a humidifier. Trust us, the small but mighty humidifier is your skin’s new bestie, working overtime while you sleep to keep you hydrated from head to toe. By adding moisture back into the air, it helps combat the drying effects of indoor heating, so you wake up with skin that’s plump and dewy. Trust us, your complexion will thank you!
2. Winter-proof your hair.
Winter might be tough on your hair, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a season of frizz and flyaways. The key is a moisture-packed routine to keep your locks looking luxe in sub-zero conditions. Start with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner, and don’t skip the deep-conditioning hair masks as often as you need them. For extra shine and protection from those harsh winter winds, invest in a leave-in conditioner or serum. (Fun fact: they can also double as a quick fix for mid-day frizz emergencies!) As much as we all love a good blowout, winter is the perfect time to give your hair a break from heat tools, to avoid drying it out even more. Instead, try heatless alternatives like overnight curls with foam rollers, braids for soft waves, or twisted buns for effortless volume. Your hair will thank you for the TLC. And if you’re a hat lover, we recommend protecting your hair with silk-lined options, or by wrapping your hair in a silk scarf before putting on your favourite toque. It’s a great hack to help keep your hair healthy, prevent breakage, and keep your style intact in the cold weather.
3. Get cozy with layers.
Who says bundling up can’t be a fashion statement? Layering is the secret to staying warm in subzero temperatures, but practicality doesn’t have to be frumpy! Think cozy-but-chic styles, like plush wool sweaters, soft-knitted scarves, discreet thermal leggings you can wear with skirts and dresses, and thermal socks to keep your feet snug and warm. It’s all about finding practical pieces that allow you to express your style comfortably in the cold weather. We recommend starting with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep things cozy, then throwing on a toasty sweater or cardigan to add texture and warmth to your outfit and a pair of insulated leggings you can layer under pants to keep your legs warm on blustery walks. Top it all off with a coat that turns heads — whether it’s a bold puffer, a tailored wool trench, or an edgy leather jacket. When it comes to boots, insulated and waterproof is the way to go. Whether you’re walking to work in the snow or dashing to your car, your footwear should keep your feet warm and dry. And let’s not forget the power of warm accessories! A statement scarf, chic gloves, and a playful hat can not only elevate your look, but help you stay cozy all day long.
4. Glow from the inside out.
Winter sniffles and low energy don’t need to be a part of every winter season! You can power up your body’s immunity by supplementing with vitamin C, which we tend to get less of in the winter months when fresh fruits and vegetables are more scarce. Vitamin D, which we normally get from the sun, is another great vitamin to supplement in the dark winter months. And just like for your skin, hydration is essential for the rest of your body! Keep hydrated from the inside out by sipping on warm herbal teas, or some hot water with lemon and ginger for an extra boost of vitamin C. Don’t stop there — winter is the time to embrace comfort food with a nutrient-rich twist. Whip up cozy soups, hearty stews, and roasted one-pan meals packed with veggies and good-for-you grains to keep your body nourished.
5. Keep moving.
Don’t let the chill in the air freeze your motivation. Winter is the perfect opportunity to heat things up by refreshing your workout routine and discovering exciting new ways to stay active. Embrace the season and keep your fitness journey thriving—no matter how frosty it gets! If it’s just too cold to go out, we recommend levelling up your at-home workouts with gear like yoga mats, resistance bands, or a set of dumbbells for strength training. Want to get into the great outdoors? Bundle up in thermal tights, insulated jackets, and moisture-wicking layers that blend performance and fashion. Try snowshoeing, skiing, or even a hike through snow-dusted trails to get your heart pumping while you take in the natural beauty of winter! Winter doesn’t have to be a time to just endure — it can be an opportunity to embrace wellness, style, and comfort. So, lean into the season, find your rhythm, and let winter become a time to refresh and recharge. Who knows? It might just become your new favourite season. Ready to get your perfect winter season started? Find everything you need at your local CF shopping center today!
By Carolyn Crystal
