The cold snap this past week was a good reminder that winter really is here. Cold air outside and dry heat inside can be rough on skin, especially this time of year. Tightness, flaking, and sensitivity are common winter complaints, and they're often less about "bad skin" and more about barrier stress. This week's spotlight looks at a few gentle, evidence-based facial treatments that can help support skin comfort through the colder months.

The cold air outside and the dry heat inside are rough on your skin this time of year. If your face feels more sensitive or dehydrated than usual, you're not imagining it. Winter pulls moisture out faster than most routines can replace it.

Here are five winter-safe treatments, backed by dermatology research, along with local Westchester providers that take a thoughtful, gentle approach. Nothing aggressive, just options that support comfort and hydration in the cold months.

Helps with: dehydration, dullness, tightness

Why it helps: In cold weather, low humidity causes the skin to lose water more quickly. Humectants like hyaluronic acid help draw moisture to the skin surface and improve hydration levels, supporting comfort and flexibility.

Local provider: Farida Studio (White Plains)
Signature Hydrafacial
https://faridastudio.com

A gentle Hydrafacial that cleanses, lightly exfoliates, and infuses hydrating serums containing hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants. The treatment is customized and controlled, which is especially helpful when skin is more reactive in winter.

Helps with: sensitivity, redness, irritation

Why it helps: Cold wind and dry indoor heat can weaken the skin's protective barrier. Treatments that combine gentle exfoliation, hydration, and calming ingredients help reduce irritation and support recovery.

Local provider: European Luxury Day Spa (White Plains)
European Luxury Glow Facial
https://europeanluxurydayspa.com/services/facials/

This facial includes deep cleansing, enzyme exfoliation, oxygen infusion, a hydrating eye treatment with hyaluronic acid and collagen, and a collagen face mask designed to leave the skin feeling plumped and more comfortable.

Helps with: flakiness, uneven texture, dull skin

Why it helps: Enzyme exfoliation breaks down dry, dead skin cells without stripping the moisture barrier. Dermatologists often recommend this approach in winter instead of physical scrubs or stronger acids.

Local provider: Spavia Day Spa (Thornwood)
Age Defense Facial
https://thornwoodny.spaviadayspa.com

Uses enzymes and mild exfoliating ingredients to smooth the skin, followed by serums and facial massage. A good option when skin looks dull but still needs a careful approach during colder months.

Helps with: redness, sensitivity, tired-looking skin

Why it helps: Red-light therapy supports cellular repair and collagen production while helping calm inflammation, all without exfoliation. This makes it appropriate when skin feels overworked or sensitive.

Local provider: The Opus Spa (White Plains)
Time Capsule Facial
https://www.theopuswestchester.com/spa

This treatment combines exfoliation, hydration, massage, and LED therapy while you recline in a zero-gravity position designed to reduce physical strain. The focus is on restoring comfort and clarity.

Helps with: puffiness, tightness, sluggish appearance

Why it helps: Lymphatic facial massage supports lymphatic fluid movement, which can reduce puffiness and help the skin feel less congested. While it doesn't hydrate directly, it's helpful when skin feels heavy or tired.

Local provider: Botanic Face & Body Spa (Tarrytown)
Lymphatic Sculpt Facial
https://www.botanicfacebody.com/facials

This facial uses gentle sculpting techniques, gua sha, and ultrasonic tools to support lymphatic flow without aggressive exfoliation, which can be helpful when skin feels sensitive in winter.

References: Hyaluronic acid research | Enzyme exfoliation | LED therapy | Lymphatic drainage

Before booking a facial, a little preparation helps ensure the treatment matches your skin and the season.

Before you book, it helps to know:

Questions worth reviewing on the website or asking ahead:

Most of this information is available online. If something isn't clear, it's reasonable to call or email before booking.

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Till next time,
Margaret