Winter weather can wreak havoc on your skin, causing dryness, redness, and flaking. To combat this, here are five natural remedies that work effectively to hydrate and protect your skin:
- Tallow-Based Moisturizers: Deeply hydrates and repairs the skin barrier with vitamins A, D, E, and K.
- Jojoba Oil: Balances skin’s natural oils and provides lightweight hydration.
- Almond Oil: Soothes and deeply nourishes with fatty acids and vitamin E.
- Oatmeal: Relieves irritation and locks in moisture with its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Honey: Acts as a humectant, pulling moisture into the skin while offering antibacterial benefits.
Quick Tips:
- Use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity (around 60%).
- Apply moisturizers or oils to damp skin to lock in hydration.
- Avoid long, hot showers that strip natural oils.
These simple, natural solutions can help keep your skin healthy and hydrated all winter long.
How To Make Tallow Face Moisturizer At Home
1. Using Tallow-Based Moisturizers
Tallow-based moisturizers, made from grass-fed animal fat, are known for their ability to deeply hydrate and mirror the skin's natural structure. Packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K, these moisturizers are great for repairing and protecting dry, winter-affected skin.
Why They Work So Well
Tallow closely matches the makeup of human skin, which helps it penetrate deeply and deliver nutrients that strengthen the skin's barrier. It also has soothing properties, making it a helpful option for irritation caused by eczema or cold weather. These qualities make it a reliable choice for dealing with winter issues like redness and flaking.
Here’s what the vitamins in tallow do for your skin:
- Vitamin A: Promotes cell repair and turnover.
- Vitamin D: Supports healing and skin resilience.
- Vitamin E: Protects against oxidative stress.
- Vitamin K: Improves skin elasticity.
For better results, apply tallow-based moisturizers to damp skin to help seal in moisture. Their natural composition makes them a safe choice for pregnant women and babies.
Top Picks from House of Tallow
House of Tallow offers standout options like the Gaia Unscented Body Cream ($29.99), which provides deep hydration without added fragrances. For a calming effect, try the Persephone Lavender Cream, infused with soothing lavender. These products feature grass-fed tallow, organic oils, and simple, natural ingredients for long-lasting moisture.
For extra hydration, apply a thick layer of tallow cream to dry areas and wear cotton gloves or socks overnight to boost absorption.
While tallow is excellent for deep nourishment, lightweight oils like jojoba can complement your routine by offering a more subtle level of hydration.
2. Hydrating with Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is a game-changer for winter skincare. Its structure is similar to natural sebum, allowing it to sink deep into the skin and deliver hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
How Jojoba Oil Benefits Your Skin
This plant-based oil works with your skin by helping balance its natural oil production. Plus, it's a great option for those who care about eco-conscious beauty choices.
Here’s why it’s perfect for winter:
- Provides deep hydration without clogging pores
- Soothes irritation and redness
- Strengthens the skin’s barrier to combat cold, dry weather
Tips for Using Jojoba Oil
- Morning Moisture: After cleansing, apply 2-3 drops to damp skin to seal in hydration.
- Nighttime Boost: Blend a small amount with your favorite moisturizer (about 1 part oil to 4 parts moisturizer) for extra hydration.
- Target Trouble Spots: Dab a few drops on dry patches or sensitive areas like your nose or cheeks.
While heavier moisturizers like tallow are great for intense hydration, jojoba oil is perfect for balancing lighter hydration needs. Its lightweight feel makes it an excellent addition to your daily routine, especially if you prefer a less heavy option.
3. Nourishing Skin with Almond Oil
Almond oil is a natural remedy for tackling winter dryness, thanks to its blend of vitamins A, B, and E, along with fatty acids that help soothe and hydrate dry, flaky skin.
Why Almond Oil Works
This oil doesn’t just moisturize - it penetrates deeply while forming a layer that helps hold in moisture. The vitamin E in almond oil works to repair damaged skin, encourage cell renewal, and shield your skin from harsh winter weather. Its gentle nature makes it ideal for even the most sensitive skin, making it a go-to during colder months.
Here’s what almond oil brings to the table:
- Intense hydration and moisture-locking properties
- Skin repair and renewal support
- A protective layer to fight moisture loss
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
How to Use Almond Oil
To make the most of almond oil in winter:
- Use a few drops on damp skin after cleansing to seal in hydration.
- Massage onto dry areas like elbows or knees for targeted relief.
- Blend it with your favorite moisturizer for an added hydration boost.
"Dermatologists recommend almond oil for its ability to deeply hydrate and improve elasticity. Pairing it with other natural ingredients can amplify its benefits."
Pro Tip: Mix almond oil with your moisturizer for a lighter, more easily absorbed formula.
While almond oil provides deep nourishment, oatmeal can be a great option for calming irritated winter skin.
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4. Soothing Skin with Oatmeal
Oatmeal works wonderfully alongside natural remedies like tallow or almond oil, making it a great addition to your winter skincare routine. This gentle ingredient helps tackle dry skin by creating a barrier that seals in moisture.
Why Oatmeal Works for Skin
Oatmeal offers multiple skin benefits, including hydration and relief from irritation. Here's what makes it effective:
- Protective barrier: Forms a film on your skin to help retain moisture.
- Calms irritation: Reduces redness and itchiness with its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Gentle hydration: Provides moisture without causing any adverse reactions.
- Sensitive-skin friendly: Safe for all skin types, even for those with eczema.
DIY Oatmeal Skincare Treatments
You can easily incorporate oatmeal into your skincare routine with these simple ideas:
- Soothing Oatmeal Bath: Add colloidal oatmeal to warm (not hot) water and soak for 15–20 minutes. This helps relieve dryness and calm irritated skin [1].
- Hydrating Face Mask: Combine ground oatmeal with warm water to create a paste. You can mix in other ingredients for added benefits:
| Combination | Benefits | Application Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oatmeal + Honey | Hydrates and fights bacteria | 10–15 minutes |
| Oatmeal + Jojoba Oil | Locks in moisture | 15–20 minutes |
| Oatmeal + Warm Water | Simple soothing treatment | 10 minutes |
Apply these treatments 1–2 times a week during the colder months for best results [1]. Always do a patch test before trying any new skincare product, including oatmeal-based remedies [2].
While oatmeal is a great skin soother, pairing it with honey can provide extra hydration and antibacterial support, making it a perfect winter skincare duo.
5. Moisturizing with Honey
Honey is a natural way to tackle dry, winter skin. Its ability to lock in moisture and support skin healing makes it a great addition to your skincare routine during colder months.
Why Honey Works for Winter Skin
Raw, unfiltered honey is packed with properties that help nourish and protect your skin. It acts as a humectant, pulling moisture from the air into your skin, while also forming a shield to prevent moisture loss.
Here’s what honey can do for your skin:
- Pulls in and retains moisture
- Contains enzymes that help repair skin
- Forms a barrier to lock in hydration
- Reduces inflammation
- Offers antibacterial support
Simple Ways to Use Honey on Your Skin
Want to give honey a try? Here are some easy methods:
Basic Honey Mask
Spread a thin layer of raw honey on clean, damp skin. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water [1].
Boosted Honey Blends
Take your honey treatments up a notch by mixing it with other skin-friendly ingredients:
| Treatment Type | Ingredients | What It Does |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrating Mask | Honey + Yogurt | Deeply moisturizes and gently exfoliates |
| Soothing Blend | Honey + Oatmeal | Reduces redness and calms irritation |
| Intense Hydration | Honey + Olive Oil | Delivers deep hydration for very dry skin |
"People with eczema and other chronic skin conditions will also notice a flare during this season. It is especially important that they are compliant with their regimens", explains Dr. Christine Fruth, DO, internist with Mather Primary Care [1].
Quick Tips for Using Honey Safely and Effectively
- Opt for raw, unfiltered honey for the best results.
- Use honey-based treatments 2-3 times a week.
- Always do a patch test first, especially if your skin is sensitive.
- Avoid honey if you’re allergic to bee products [3].
Tips to Prevent Winter Skin Dryness
Natural remedies like tallow and honey can help with hydration, but building good habits is key to keeping your skin protected during the colder months.
How to Keep Skin Hydrated in Winter
Stick to short, lukewarm showers - 5 to 10 minutes is ideal - to avoid stripping your skin's natural oils. After bathing, pat your skin dry and immediately apply moisturizer to lock in hydration. Opt for fragrance-free, gentle cleansers and steer clear of products with harsh chemicals like alcohol. For added moisture, try applying natural oils like almond oil to damp skin right after your bath.
Stay hydrated by drinking water consistently throughout the day. Using a humidifier indoors can also help by maintaining air moisture, which supports your skin’s barrier.
Extra Tips for Winter Skincare
When heading outside, protect your skin from cold winds and low temperatures with proper clothing. Choose natural fibers like cotton to minimize irritation, and cover exposed areas with gloves, scarves, and hats.
Winter Skincare Must-Haves:
- Lip balm with SPF to shield against sun and wind
- Soft towels to gently pat skin dry - avoid rubbing
- Lukewarm water for baths and showers [2]
On top of these tips, sticking to a gentle skincare routine will help your skin stay healthy and moisturized all winter long.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with winter skin dryness doesn't have to be a challenge, thanks to nature-based solutions. The five remedies we’ve covered - tallow-based moisturizers, jojoba oil, almond oil, oatmeal, and honey - offer practical ways to keep your skin nourished and healthy during the colder months. These ingredients work together to hydrate deeply and support your skin's natural defenses.
Natural oils are a must-have for winter skincare. Jojoba oil, which closely mimics your skin's natural sebum, provides balanced hydration, while almond oil is packed with antioxidants and vitamins to shield your skin from harsh weather [4]. Oatmeal and honey are simple yet powerful additions, helping maintain skin health without relying on harsh chemicals.
These remedies are especially helpful for those with sensitive skin or during pregnancy, offering safe and gentle options for winter care. With regular use, you’ll notice improved hydration in just a few weeks. Pairing these natural solutions with mindful habits lets you enjoy winter without worrying about dry, uncomfortable skin - all while keeping things simple and eco-friendly.
FAQs
Does tallow work for dry skin?
Tallow is a great option for dry skin because it penetrates deeply and nourishes effectively. Since it closely resembles the skin's natural structure, it helps combat winter dryness, dry patches, eczema, and even signs of aging. You can use it in various ways, such as balms or salves, to keep your skin hydrated [5].
Can you put straight tallow on skin?
Yes, you can apply tallow directly to your face and body. It works well for very dry skin, eczema, and even cracked heels [6]. Tip: Use just a small amount - tallow is concentrated, so a little goes a long way.
What oils to add to tallow for skin?
Combining tallow with certain oils can improve its hydrating effects. Here are some popular pairings:
| Oil Type | Benefits When Combined with Tallow |
|---|---|
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Improves absorption and adds moisture |
| Rosehip Seed Oil | Promotes skin healing |
| Jojoba Oil | Helps balance the skin's natural oils |
| Shea Butter | Adds an extra layer of hydration |
For an easy mix, try olive oil as a base. Adding a few drops of rosehip seed oil can make the tallow absorb more easily while offering added healing benefits [5].
These tips can help you get the most out of tallow for your skincare routine.
