Winter Skin Care with Natural Oils: A Simple Routine

Winter air pulls moisture out of skin. Hands crack, heels split and lips peel. Before reaching for a cream full of ingredients you can’t pronounce, try the oils Indian grandmothers have used for generations.

For the face: almond oil

Sweet almond oil is light and absorbs well. Warm 2–3 drops between your fingertips and press onto slightly damp skin at night. It is also a gentle choice for the under-eye area.

For the body: sesame oil

Sesame (til) oil is the traditional winter body oil in Ayurveda. Warm it slightly and massage before your bath – 15 minutes is enough. Use the 200 ml sesame oil for massage so your kitchen bottle stays separate.

For lips, hands and heels: virgin coconut oil

Virgin coconut oil is made from fresh coconut milk, so it is light and fresh-smelling. Dab it on lips, rub into cuticles and knuckles, and massage into heels at night with cotton socks on.

A simple winter routine

Before bath: massage sesame oil into arms, legs and feet.
Bath: use lukewarm, not very hot water – hot water strips oil from skin.
After bath: apply a few drops of virgin coconut oil on still-damp skin to seal in moisture.
Night: almond oil on the face, coconut oil on lips and heels.