In winter skin gets dry due to low humidity in the air.

Our Skin's protective layer contains both oils (Sebum ) and NMF( Mixture of humectants like Amino acids, Lactate, PCA, Glycerol, Hyaluronic acid, and others). The layer of oils helps to keep water in the skin. 

If the humidity is high in air,  humectants in the skin will attract water from the air and keeps the top layer hydrated.

But if the humidity is low, the water evaporates into the air. But we have a protective layer of oil which stops the TEWL (water loss from skin). 

The amount of water inside the skin is a direct measure of healthy skin.

Also, it's important to note that less Oil (Sebum) is produced in winters as the temperature is cold. 

This tightens the skin’s pores and reduces blood circulation.  This makes it more vulnerable to dryness. 

So winter Skin Needs both Humectants that retain water and also Oils that keep the water inside.

Biggest Mistake I see is using only Hyaluronic Acid Gel to treat dry skin in winter.

Hyaluronic Acid Gels or Mists may seem very hydrating at the moment but if you don't seal them with an occlusive (sealing oil), skin can get more dry afterward, because there is less humidity in air so it cannot get water from air, instead it can pull water from lower layers of skin, making it more dehydrated next time.

Always follow up with an oil or butter or heavy cream after HA serums. But if the humidity is high or your skin is Oily enough, HA gel would alone be enough. 

Actives or Moisturizers?

When skin gets dry it gets inflamed or reactive. The last thing we want to do when skin is reactive is to use actives. Also inflamed skin ages faster.

So in winters, more importance should be placed on moisturizers than actives. 

Lessen your amount of actives and lessen frequency. 

Always go for gentle cleansers that are non-drying for you, See if you can lessen the number of times you can use cleansers. 

Have you tried our Calendula Lip Balm, great for those who have flaky and dry lips.