Winter has a way of sneaking up on the skin. One morning it feels tight after a shower. Another evening, there’s that dull, flaky look in the mirror that wasn’t there a week ago. People blame age, weather, or sometimes just bad luck. But much of winter skin trouble comes from things people believe about cold-weather skincare — beliefs that quietly do more harm than good.
Dermatologists see this every year. And in 2026, voices from clinics across central India, especially advice shared by a top dermatologist in Chhattisgarh, sound clearer than ever: winter skincare isn’t about extremes. It’s about balance, consistency, and unlearning a few stubborn myths.
Let’s talk about those myths. Slowly. Honestly.
Myth 1: You Don’t Need Sunscreen in Winter
This one refuses to die.
Cold air doesn’t cancel UV rays. They still reach the skin, even through clouds. Dermatologists often mention that winter sun damage goes unnoticed because there’s no immediate burn. But damage builds quietly.
A top dermatologist in Chhattisgarh often reminds patients that uneven pigmentation seen in summer usually started in winter, when sunscreen was forgotten.
Myth 2: Dry Skin Means You Need Hot Water
Hot showers feel comforting. Almost addictive.
But that comfort comes at a cost. Hot water strips natural oils, leaving skin weaker and thirstier. Dermatologists recommend lukewarm water, even if it feels less indulgent. The skin barrier matters more than momentary warmth.
Strangely enough, people who reduce water temperature often notice improvement within days.
Myth 3: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturiser
This myth quietly wrecks skin.
In winter, even oily skin loses moisture. When it’s not replenished, oil glands overcompensate. The result? Breakouts that seem confusing and unfair.
Dermatologists suggest lightweight, non-greasy moisturisers. According to a top dermatologist in Chhattisgarh, skipping moisturiser is one of the most common mistakes among young adults during winter.
Myth 4: Lip Balm Once a Day Is Enough
Lips don’t work like regular skin. They lack oil glands.
Once-a-day application rarely helps. Wind, cold air, and constant licking dry them faster. Dermatologists recommend reapplying lip balm several times, especially before stepping outdoors and before bed.
A small habit. Big difference.
Myth 5: Exfoliation Should Stop in Winter
Some people abandon exfoliation entirely. Others scrub harder, trying to remove flakes.
Both extremes fail.
Gentle exfoliation, once a week, helps remove dead skin and allows moisturisers to work better. Dermatologists warn against harsh scrubs. Chemical exfoliants, used carefully, are often safer.
A top dermatologist in Chhattisgarh notes that winter exfoliation should feel “kind,” not aggressive.
Myth 6: Body Skin Takes Care of Itself
Face care gets attention. The rest of the body gets ignored.
Winter exposes this imbalance. Legs itch. Arms turn ashy. Heels crack. Dermatologists recommend applying body moisturiser immediately after bathing, while skin is still damp.
It sounds simple. It works.
Myth 7: Natural Oils Fix Everything
Coconut oil. Mustard oil. Ghee.
They’re traditional, familiar, comforting. But they aren’t universal solutions. Some oils clog pores. Others sit on the surface without hydration.
Dermatologists suggest humectant-based creams that pull moisture into the skin. Oils can seal moisture, but only if hydration comes first.
This distinction matters — and it’s something a top dermatologist in Chhattisgarh often explains during consultations.
Myth 8: Drinking Less Water in Winter Is Fine
People feel less thirsty in cold weather. So they drink less.
Skin notices.
Hydration supports elasticity and glow. Dermatologists often say that no cream can fully compensate for internal dehydration. Warm water, soups, fruits — they all count.
Winter glow starts from inside.
Myth 9: Makeup Alone Can Hide Dry Skin
Foundation settles into dry patches. Concealer cracks. The mirror becomes unforgiving.
Dermatologists stress prep over coverage. Cleanse gently. Moisturise properly. Let products absorb. Makeup then looks smoother, lighter, more natural.
A top dermatologist in Chhattisgarh often advises reducing heavy matte formulas during winter.
Myth 10: Skin Problems Will Fix Themselves in Summer
This belief delays care.
Winter eczema, dermatitis, and sensitivity don’t disappear magically. Untreated, they worsen. Early care prevents long-term damage.
Dermatologists encourage people to seek help early. Quiet symptoms are still symptoms.
What Dermatologists Actually Recommend for Winter Glow
Dermatologists don’t chase trends. Their advice stays grounded.
- Mild cleansers. Nothing that leaves skin squeaky.
- Moisturiser twice daily. Thicker at night.
- Sunscreen, yes — even in December.
- Lip care. Hand care. Foot care.
- Fewer products, used consistently.
A top dermatologist in Chhattisgarh often says winter skincare should feel boring. Predictable. Reassuring. That’s how skin heals.
The Glow People Miss in Winter
Glow isn’t shine. It’s comfort.
Skin doesn’t sting after washing. It doesn’t itch under sweaters. It doesn’t flake by afternoon. That quiet comfort? That’s winter glow.
It comes from letting go of myths and listening to skin instead.
As dermatologists across Chhattisgarh observe in 2026, winter skin problems aren’t harsher than before. People are just more aware now. They ask better questions. They stop blaming themselves.
And when advice comes from a top dermatologist in Chhattisgarh, it carries something reassuring — not urgency, not fear, just clarity.
Winter doesn’t have to be harsh on skin. It just asks for a little honesty. And patience.