Why November Matters for Your Skin
November sits at a crucial crossroads in your skincare calendar. The central heating has just been switched on, the air is getting drier, and your skin is about to face its biggest challenge of the year: winter. But here's the good news—you still have time to prepare.
As dermatologists often say, prevention is easier than repair. By strengthening your skin barrier and adjusting your routine now, you'll avoid the tight, flaky, irritated skin that so many people struggle with come December and January.
What's Actually Happening to Your Skin Right Now
In November, your skin is dealing with a perfect storm of stressors:
Indoor heating strips moisture from the air (and your skin), outdoor cold constricts blood vessels and reduces natural oil production, and the constant temperature changes between indoors and outdoors weaken your skin barrier. Meanwhile, lower humidity levels mean your skin loses water faster than it can replace it.
The result? That uncomfortable feeling of tightness, increased sensitivity, and the first signs of winter dryness creeping in.
The November Skincare Strategy: Layer, Lock, and Protect
1. Upgrade Your Hydration Game
If you've been using a lightweight moisturiser through summer and autumn, November is your signal to level up. Look for products with hyaluronic acid—it can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it perfect for combating the dry air.
The key is to apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin (never completely dry), then seal it in with a richer moisturiser. Think of it as creating a moisture sandwich that keeps hydration locked in all day.
2. Don't Abandon Your Actives
There's a common myth that you should stop using retinol in winter. The truth? Stopping retinol can actually set your skin back. What you should do is adjust how you use it.
In November, consider:
- Using retinol every other night instead of daily if your skin feels sensitive
- Applying a hydrating serum underneath your retinol
- Following up with a more occlusive moisturiser to prevent irritation
- Never skipping SPF during the day (yes, even in November)
Retinol is one of the most effective ingredients for maintaining skin cell turnover, reducing fine lines, and keeping your complexion glowing—benefits you definitely don't want to lose during the darker months.
3. Add Vitamin C for Brightness
November's grey skies can make your complexion look dull and tired. A vitamin C serum in the morning helps brighten your skin, protects against environmental damage, and boosts your SPF's effectiveness.
Layer it before your moisturiser and sunscreen for maximum benefit. Your skin will thank you when everyone else is looking washed out by mid-December.
4. Strengthen Your Skin Barrier Now
Your skin barrier is your first line of defence against winter weather. November is the time to reinforce it with ingredients like:
- Ceramides to repair and strengthen
- Niacinamide to reduce inflammation and improve barrier function
- Squalane to lock in moisture without feeling heavy
A strong barrier means less sensitivity, better moisture retention, and healthier-looking skin all winter long.
The November Night Routine That Works
Here's a simple but effective evening routine to start this month:
- Gentle cleanser (avoid anything too stripping)
- Hydrating toner or essence on damp skin
- Hyaluronic acid serum while skin is still slightly damp
- Retinol (if using—wait a few minutes after hyaluronic acid)
- Rich moisturiser to seal everything in
- Eye cream for the delicate eye area
This layering technique ensures each product can do its job while building up protection against the elements.
Don't Forget the Details
While you're upgrading your facial skincare, remember these often-forgotten areas:
Your lips need extra care—keep a nourishing balm handy and apply it throughout the day. Your hands are exposed to constant washing and cold air—invest in a good hand cream and use it religiously. Your eyebrows and lashes can become brittle in cold weather—consider a nourishing serum to keep them strong.
The Bottom Line
November isn't just another month—it's your skincare preparation period. The changes you make now will determine whether you sail through winter with glowing, comfortable skin or spend December battling dryness and irritation.
You don't need to overhaul everything. Small, strategic adjustments—richer moisturisers, consistent hydration, maintaining your actives, and protecting your skin barrier—will make all the difference.
Your future self (the one enjoying compliments on their glowing skin at Christmas parties) will thank you for starting now.
Ready to winter-proof your routine? Explore our range of dermatologist-approved serums and moisturisers designed to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing all season long.
