How to Maintain Healthy Skin During a Cape Town Winter: A Dermatologist’s Personal Guide

How to Maintain Healthy Skin During a Cape Town Winter: A Dermatologist’s Personal Guide

As a specialist dermatologist in Cape Town, I see many patients struggle with dry, sensitive, and irritated skin during the colder months. Cape Town’s winter may be mild compared to other parts of the world, but the combination of cooler temperatures, wind, and indoor heating can be surprisingly harsh on the skin.

Here’s my personal winter guide to keeping your skin healthy, hydrated, and protected through the season.

1. Switch to a Gentle, Hydrating Cleanser

In winter, your skin's natural oils are easily stripped away, leading to dryness and sensitivity.

What I recommend:

  • Replace foaming or gel cleansers with cream-based or hydrating cleansers.
  • Look for ingredients like glycerin and ceramides to help protect your skin barrier.

Gentle cleansing prevents further irritation and prepares your skin to better absorb moisturizers and treatments.

2. Upgrade Your Moisturizer

Winter calls for a richer, more nourishing moisturizer to combat the drier air and wind.

What I recommend:

  • Choose creams over lotions — creams are thicker and more effective at preventing water loss.
  • Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and shea butter are excellent for winter hydration.
  • Apply moisturizer immediately after showering to lock in moisture.

This simple switch can make a significant difference in preventing flaky, tight skin.

3. Protect Against the Sun — Even in Winter

Many people underestimate UV exposure in winter. However, UVA rays — the ones responsible for aging — are present year-round.

What I recommend:

  • Continue using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily.
  • Focus on exposed areas like the face, neck, and hands.
  • Sunscreen isn’t just for summer — it’s a year-round necessity.

As a dermatologist in Cape Town, I see the cumulative effects of UV exposure daily — prevention is always better than cure.

4. Boost Your Hydration from the Inside

Internal hydration is just as important in winter when environmental moisture levels drop.

What I recommend:

  • Aim to drink 1.5 to 2 litres of water daily.
  • Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, flaxseeds, or supplements) to support the skin’s lipid barrier.

Good hydration helps your skin stay plump and resilient against environmental stressors.

5. Schedule Your Annual Skin Check

Cape Town’s high UV index throughout the year makes regular skin screenings essential — and winter is the perfect time to do it.

 What I recommend:

  • Book a full-body skin examination to monitor moles and detect any early signs of skin cancer.
  • Winter is also an ideal time to treat pigmentation and sun damage, as there’s less UV exposure to interfere with recovery.

Early detection and prevention are at the heart of maintaining lifelong skin health.

Final Thoughts

Winter in Cape Town may be cooler and wetter, but it can still take a toll on your skin if you’re not careful. Simple changes in your skincare routine can help you maintain a healthy, comfortable complexion all season long.

If you’re experiencing persistent dryness, sensitivity, or want to refresh your skincare approach, I invite you to book a consultation. Together, we’ll create a personalized winter skincare plan tailored to your needs.

 Visit us at 28 Brookdale Avenue, Pinelands, Cape Town.
 Book your consultation today.

Let’s talk about how I can help.
— Dr Altaaf Parker
Specialist Dermatologist | Hair Restoration Expert
#DermatologistCapeTown #WinterSkinCare #HealthySkin #CapeTownDermatologist #SkinHealthJourney

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