The 5-Step Bodycare Routine That’ll Get You Through Winter
Nikki is a writer, former makeup artist, and Communications Specialist at Adore Beauty. She kicked off her writing career at Fashion Journal, penning beauty articles and interviewing musicians she’d still name-drop seven years later. In 2023, she made a very big and bold career leap (writing about fashion instead of beauty). Now, she’s come full circle – but still loves to think outside the box.
Like all fair-weather bodycare users, I’m guilty of pouring the last of my after-work energy into a comprehensive skincare routine and skipping out on a body moisturiser because I don’t feel like it. Then I’m shocked when my legs turn scaly and my eczema flares up.
Though I’m happy to report I’ll be undergoing a seasonal rebrand, having scoured the internet for expert advice and hacks and products that help my skin thrive in colder conditions.
Call it winter-boots-on-the-ground journalism. Do try this at home.
Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Gel Moussant Ultra-Soothing Foaming Body Wash Cleanser, $36.99
If you’re loyal to Bioderma’s soap-free Atoderm Shower Gel like me, try the brand’s even gentler, winter-proof counterpart. Formulated for very dry and eczema-prone skin, this intensive gel cleanser works to soothe any discomfort or irritation and help strengthen your skin barrier.
I use a dry brush like this to cleanse the hard-to-reach parts of my back, which is typically where sweat and oil build up (cue bacne). Not its intended use – and its benefits definitely stretch beyond extension – but it works.
Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Gel Moussant Body Wash Cleanser reviews:
"I have repurchased this multiple times. I have eczema and find that it does not dry or irritate my skin." - AB customer Cathy.
"I'm looking for a gentle body wash that I can use on my face as well. I have sensitive skin, so I need something that won't irritate me. I found this body wash and it's perfect! It's very gentle and it doesn't have a strong scent, which is great for me because I'm sensitive to fragrances. I would definitely recommend this body wash to anyone with sensitive skin." - AB customer Su.
Alpha-H Smoothing AHA Face & Body Scrub with 12% Glycolic Acid, $49.95
Since the skin on our body is thicker than the skin on our face, body scrubs tend to be coarser and more emollient. But sensitive, winter-affected skin calls for extra TLC. Or Alpha-H.
This dual-action exfoliator is formulated with 12% glycolic acid and super fine bamboo stem particles to buff away dead skin cells in that ultra-satisfying way without leaving your skin red and raw.
You can take Adore eComm Specialist Alexina’s word for it, too:
“This scrub really hits the sweet spot. It has a much finer texture than I was expecting but still left my skin feeling soft and hydrated (my dry winter elbows don't know what hit them) plus it rinsed off very easily – which is not always easy to find in a body scrub! I tried it on my sensitive, redness-prone face just once, and while I probably wouldn't dare to do it regularly, it did leave my skin feeling super soft and smooth.”
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Lait Body Milk, $41.95
La Roche-Posay’s Lipikar range is the crème de la crème of bodycare – and Body Milk is the best moisturiser for those who want hydration without the heaviness.
It’s packed with nourishing shea butter and niacinamide but has a non-sticky finish that easily absorbs into the skin. I suggest mixing in a few drops of body oil (see below) for a buttery-soft cocktail that gives your skin a summer-level glow.
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Lait Body Milk reviews:
"Actually hydrate without making me feel sticky or oily and I really like how this layers well with body oils and perfume." - AB customer Kav.
"Absorbs quickly and not at all irritating for sensitive skin. Great for everyday and bonus that it comes in such a large size." - AB customer Siena.
NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Multi Purpose Dry Oil, $49
Speaking of French pharmacy brands to know and love, Nuxe’s iconic multi-purpose oil has been replenishing skin and hair since its launch in 1991. It’s now become internet famous (naturally) and arrives in richer, shimmery and floral-scented iterations. Though, you can’t go wrong with the OG.
Apply it directly to your bod’ or team it with a lotion to make the dream work.
NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Multi Purpose Dry Oil reviews:
"The pump spray is very handy, feels great to use straight out of the shower." - AB customer S.
INNISFREE Foot Mask Treatment, $5
For most, foot masks are fairly novel – but I’m trying to make fetch happen.
This one from INNISFREE is only $5 and softens dry, rough feet in under 20 minutes. I’ll wear the serum-soaked socks while I’m watching a 20-minute episode of a comfort show I’ve seen ten times over and call it a Friday night well spent. You do you, though.
INNISFREE Foot Mask Treatment reviews:
"Love foot masks, especially after a night out or big walking day, feet feel amazing and so soothing. Such a cheap and hydrating product, highly recommend." - AB customer LG.
"I love that you don't have to apply the product and they leave my feet feeling SO soft and moisturised without feeling sticky. They're so affordable too!" - AB customer Carly.
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