How and When to Deep Cleanse Your Face in Winter —Your Glow Depends On It

There’s something sacred about the winter cleanse. The way your skin soaks in every drop of nourishment after a long day spent in cold air, dry heat, and layers of makeup or SPF. But here’s the catch: winter isn’t just about switching to richer creams and skipping harsh actives—it's also about rethinking how and when we really cleanse our skin.

Because yes, there’s a right way to wash your face in winter—and over-cleansing or exfoliating at the wrong time could be the very thing sabotaging your glow.

So, how often should you deep-clean your face in colder months? How do you adapt your routine to drier, more sensitive skin without inviting dullness or breakouts?

What Is Deep Cleansing—and Why Does It Matter More in Winter?

Unlike your regular wash-and-go moment, deep cleansing is about resetting your skin. It's removing every trace of SPF, pollution, makeup, and pore-clogging impurities—without disturbing your delicate moisture barrier which is already stressed in winter.

Deep cleansing isn’t about stripping your skin or chasing that tight, squeaky-clean feeling, it doesn’t mean scrubbing your face raw. It’s more about method than muscle. In fact, winter skin rebels against over-washing. Instead, this ritual is about removing every trace of makeup, pollutants, sweat, and buildup so your skin can properly absorb all the good stuff that follows—think hydrating essences, barrier-repair creams, and radiance-boosting serums. The goal? Skin that’s balanced, supple, and fresh—not inflamed or flaky.

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How Often Should I Deep Cleanse My Face in Winter?

The golden rule? Twice a day cleansing still applies—but think of it in layers:

• Morning: Keep things soft and light. Your skin hasn’t been exposed to makeup or pollution overnight, so there's no need for anything intense. A simple cleanse with a hydrating gel or micellar water is all you need to whisk away overnight creams and sweat.

• Night: This is when you deep cleanse. At night, your skin is ready to reset. It’s been layered with SPF, makeup, pollution—and it deserves a proper clean slate. Start by melting away makeup and SPF with an oil-based cleanser, then follow with a water-based formula to truly purify and prep the skin for nighttime hydration. This is your skincare ceremony, not a chore.

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Step-by-Step Winter Deep Cleansing Routine

1. Start with Makeup Removal (Even If You Wore Barely Any)

Begin by removing surface-level makeup, SPF, and impurities. Micellar water or a gentle cleansing oil is ideal—something that melts away pigment and pollution while being kind to your skin. A double cleanse using a nourishing oil followed by a light gel cleanser ensures the skin is clean without being stripped.

2. Follow Up with a Gentle, Nourishing Cleanser

The second cleanse is where the skin gets truly clean. Opt for a water-based gel or a foaming cleanser that purifies while maintaining your skin’s natural moisture levels. Creamier cleansers work best for drier skin, while gels offer a refreshing finish for balanced or oily types. The goal is clarity, not tightness.

3. Exfoliate (But Think Weekly, Not Daily)

Exfoliation isn’t an everyday affair—especially not in winter. Once a week is more than enough to remove dulling dead skin and reveal that glow beneath. Chemical exfoliants (like AHAs and BHAs) can offer a smoother finish, while physical exfoliants should be used sparingly and gently. Over-exfoliation doesn’t just dull your glow—it compromises the skin’s natural barrier.

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4. Tone to Rebalance

Toners are having a moment—and for good reason. A balancing toner can help reset your skin’s pH and prep it to absorb serums more effectively. Choose an alcohol-free formula with hydrating or calming ingredients like rose water, witch hazel, or chamomile.

5. Indulge in a Hydrating Mask

For the days when your skin feels extra parched, a hydrating mask can be transformative. Think hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or plant-based oils that nourish and plump. After a deep cleanse, your skin is more receptive—so this is the perfect time to let it soak in all the goodness.

Listen to Your Skin, Always

Deep cleansing in winter should feel like a treat, not a chore. If your skin starts to feel tight, sensitive, or dry, it's likely a sign to scale back and simplify. But if you’re noticing buildup, congestion, or dullness, introducing one or two deeper steps—like exfoliation or a double cleanse—can make a world of difference.

In winter, glowing skin doesn’t come from doing more. It comes from doing just enough—beautifully, thoughtfully, and with care.