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10 Japanese Self Care Tips For Protecting Your Skin During Winter

Simple steps to maintain flawless skin during Japan's cold months

By The Savvy Team |
November 20, 2025 |
Health, In Season, Lifestyle, Style & Beauty, Trending

As the temperature drops, so, too, does the level of moisture in the air. Don't let the colder weather cause stress for your skin—fight back with these self-care remedies.

Despite how much we bundle up, winter weather is never fun for our skin. Winter in Japan requires us to move between indoor and outdoor environments throughout the day, whether stepping out of a roasting train carriage onto an exposed platform, moving from a stuffy office to a coffee meeting or dragging ourselves from under the kotatsu (heated blanket table) for an outdoor run.

Repeated exposure to cold temperatures combined with low humidity levels results in extremely dry air, which can leave our skin parched, itchy and even cracked. Proper care is crucial to getting through the next few months—you’ll need to give your skin a little extra tender, loving care to counteract the effects of winter skin woes.

The good news is that there is a myriad of Japanese products and practices to help you maintain soft and glowing skin. Here are our top tips to keep you looking flawless and fire—no matter how cold it is!

1. Take A Warm (Not Hot) Bath

Woman's hand turning on the water faucet and checking the water temperature in the onsen tub.

When it comes to Japanese beauty and health secrets, taking warm baths is definitely a must-do. During cold nights, it’s hard to say no to a long, hot soak, but as the weather becomes cooler, it’s essential to ensure you don’t turn up the water temperature too high, as it will strip away the essential oils in your skin, resulting in even more damage. The best way to avoid this is to soak in water at a temperature of around 38-40°C for just 10 minutes.

The exception to this is natural onsen (hot springs), which are filled with specific minerals and other properties that counteract the drying effects of excessively hot water and are actually very beneficial for winter skin. If you can, schedule some me-time with a day trip to a nearby onsen; there are plenty of breathtaking resorts all over Japan.

2. Moisturize All Over While Damp

During the winter months, it’s essential to allocate a little extra time to your bathing routine to thoroughly moisturize your body immediately after washing. Applying moisturizer to damp skin helps seal that moisture in and prevent your skin from drying out during the day.

But before you start, it’s essential to know what’s really in the product you’re using. Some active moisturizing ingredients to look out for include:

ヒト型セラミド (hitogata seramido; “human-type ceramide”)

Such as ceramide NP, ceramide AP and ceramide EOP: These mimic the skin’s own lipids and help repair and strengthen the barrier so moisture stays locked in. They are especially helpful if your skin feels tight or dehydrated.

ヘパリノイド (heparinoido; “heparinoid”)

A 医薬部外品 (iyakubugaihin; “quasi-drug”) ingredient that not only hydrates but also calms mild inflammation. It helps reduce itching and redness caused by dryness, making the skin more comfortable overall.

アミノ酸系保湿成分 (amino san-kei hoshitsu seibun; “amino acid moisturizing ingredients”)

Such as glycine, alanine and PCA-Na: These are part of the skin’s 天然保湿因子 (tennen hoshitsu inshi; “natural moisturizing factor”), which help skin hold onto water so it stays soft and plump.

エモリエント成分 (emoriento seibun; “emollient ingredients”)

Such as vaseline, squalane and shea butter: These form a thin protective layer on the skin’s surface to prevent water from evaporating. They are especially effective during winter when the air is dry.

Some body lotions and creams include 石油系成分 (sekiyu-kei seibun; “petroleum-based ingredients”) that may dry out the skin further in colder months. If you’re sensitive to these, look for products labeled オーガニック (ōganikku; “organic”) or オイルイン (oiru in; “oil-in”) for gentler, more nourishing formulas. These organic beauty stores offer a wide range of natural Japanese and imported products.

If you have very dry or sensitive skin, you should probably also choose products labeled:

アルコール［エタノール］フリー (arukōru [etanōru] furī; “alcohol [ethanol]-free”)
無香料 (mukōryō; “fragrance-free”)
無着色 (muchakushoku; “coloring-free”)

For more skin care recommendations, explore our various articles for skincare tailored to your specific skin type.

3. Exfoliate But Don’t Scrub

We often forget to help our skin slough off dead cells in the winter, particularly on our hands and feet. To truly maximize the effectiveness of your moisturizing routine, make sure a buildup of dead skin cells doesn’t block the areas you’re applying extra hydration to. This is why gentle exfoliation, about once or twice a week on the face, body, hands and feet, is so important.

When exfoliating, remember that friction can easily irritate sensitive skin in winter. Rubbing too hard puts unnecessary strain on the skin, accelerates dryness and weakens the barrier function, which can lead to rough or flaky patches. Any time you touch your skin, whether you’re cleansing, exfoliating or applying skincare, handle it as gently as you would a soft piece of tofu.

Choose an exfoliating mask or cream explicitly designed for the face, as these formulas are milder and better suited for colder months when your skin is more vulnerable.

Goodbye Keana’s baking soda wash strikes just the right balance between “scratching my face off” and “ooh, my pores are so clean.” However, if we’re recommending just one, opt for Cure Natural Aqua Gel for its proven gentle exfoliation and strong reputation in the J-beauty world.

Use it once or twice a week, depending on your skin sensitivity, and then follow immediately with the moisturizing routine above. You’ll feel noticeably smoother and refreshed—just in time for the new year.

4. Cover Up & Protect Your Skin

Photo of sweet adorable lady dressed beige coat rising collar feeling cold outdoors residential complex.

Get into the habit of wearing gloves, scarves and hats to protect your skin from wind, rain and even snow. When choosing what to wear overall, opt for materials that don’t irritate the skin and reduce friction, which helps prevent dryness and other skin problems.

Friction and static electricity can damage the 角質層 (kakushitsu-sō; “outermost skin layer”), or the stratum corneum, which is the protective barrier that keeps moisture in and harmful substances out. Soft, natural fabrics like cotton, silk or baby alpaca will feel gentle against the skin. They’re also the best choice for items that come into direct contact with your skin, such as masks or underwear.

Winter SPF Is Crucial!

Don’t forget to continue your usual sun protection routine even in the colder months. Winter sunshine can be just as damaging—if not more—than the summer sun. Skiers and snowboarders beware: Reflection from those icy slopes can be significantly worse than simply being out and about in the city, so a waterproof SPF 50+ sunscreen is highly recommended.

As for clothing recommendations, we recently introduced a list of sustainable fashion brands in Japan that use natural materials, so be sure to check that out as well.

5. Humidify Your Home

Winter heating can make indoor air painfully dry, which dries out your skin and hair faster than you’d think. Using a humidifier or essential oil diffuser is an easy way to add moisture back into the air. It will not only keep your skin soft and vibrant, but it may also help you avoid getting sick. Have a partner who snores? Humidity may also be the solution to that particular problem as well.

Aim for a room humidity of 40 to 60 percent. Low humidity can dry out your skin, while excessive moisture can cause sweat, disrupt your skin’s natural balance and even encourage mold growth. On that note, you’ll also want to keep your home temperature around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, as being too cold can slow blood circulation, and being too hot can trigger excess oil production.

If you’re currently low on funds and can’t afford a whole new machine, there are also some very simple natural ways to boost humidity in your home:

Dry your towels and laundry indoors: Ensure there is sufficient space for air to circulate, and consider using an antibacterial detergent for indoor use to help prevent odors.
After bathing, leave the bathroom door open to let the extra steam flow into the room: Be mindful of condensation or mold. You may also want to skip this one in terms of safety if you have any small children.
Have nabe (hot pot) for breakfast, lunch and dinner: Having a pot of nabe simmering will naturally release some moisture into the air; a herbal simmer pot works just as well, too!

6. Stay Hydrated

Close up shot of young smiling Asian adult woman, wearing Kimono, sitting and drinking hot tea while looking at the views or landscape of the snowy mountain nature through the big window. She is relaxing inside a traditional Japanese room.

Young happy Asian female traveler or tourist relaxing during vacation or travel in Japan in Winter holidays, enjoying her day resting indoors.

During the winter months, it’s easy to forget to drink enough fluids as we opt for plenty of warm drinks like cocoa, coffee and tea. Remember that your skin needs to be hydrated from the inside out, so carry a water bottle with you wherever you go.

Not sure how much water you should drink per day? According to Dr. Sawako Hibino, a physician and dermatologist, as well as the general director of Sawako Clinic x YS, “you should ideally drink around one and a half to two liters per day, but the specific amount varies depending on your age and weight.”

Here’s how to calculate it:

Your Weight (kg) x (*) = Daily fluid requirement (mL)
*Under 30 years old: 40mL; 30-55 years old: 35mL; 56 years old or older: 30mL

For example, if you’re in your 20s and weigh around 60kg (60kg x 40mL), you’ll need to drink around 2,400mL. A 40-year-old at the same weight (60kg x 35mL) would need 2,100mL, and someone in their 60s at the same weight will only need 1,800mL.

If that sounds like a lot, keep in mind that the amount also includes fluids you get from food, so you don’t necessarily need to drink the whole amount in water. If you prefer hot beverages, opt for green tea or, even better, matcha, as it’s high in catechins, which are naturally occurring antioxidants that also possess anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.

Try to consume as much of the fluids in the morning and during the first half of your day, as this is the body’s prime time for detoxification and fluid elimination.

7. Take In The Right Nutrients

Hot pot dishes that are eaten daily in the sumo room

Eating well during winter isn’t just about staying healthy; it’s one of the best ways to keep your skin glowing from the inside out. A solid winter skincare routine should really start on your plate, and, luckily, Japan has so many meals that naturally incorporate many nutrient-dense ingredients.

Ever wondered how so many people, especially elderly women, in Japan tend to have such young, healthy-looking skin? If you ask them their secret, many would advise that it all begins with their diet.

From seasonal produce at your local supermarket to traditional staple Japanese superfoods like natto, miso, seaweed, tofu and a wide range of fresh winter vegetables, everyday meals here are built around balance and variety. To keep your skin hydrated and resilient, make sure you’re getting the proper nutrients throughout the season.

Here are the key vitamins to focus on and what to eat to get them naturally:

Vitamin A

Helps protect the skin and mucous membranes.

What to eat: liver, unagi (eel), egg yolks, kabocha (Japanese pumpkin), spinach, carrots, sweet potato and other green and yellow vegetables

Vitamin E

Prevents lipid oxidation and supports smoother, more supple skin.

What to eat: almonds, sunflower seeds and other nuts, vegetable and sesame oil, avocado, spinach, salmon and mackerel

Vitamin B2

Supports healthy skin cell turnover.

What to eat: liver, natto, eggs, skim milk or yogurt, liver, wakame, nori, shiitake mushrooms, soba (buckwheat) noodles

Vitamin C

Essential for collagen production and overall skin strength.

What to eat: persimmons, lemons, mandarin oranges, yuzu, strawberries, kiwis, broccoli, bell peppers, daikon and other greens and yellow vegetables

Don’t Forget Protein!

Think of protein as your skin’s construction team—constantly repairing, rebuilding and supporting the structure that keeps everything smooth, firm and resilient. Since our bodies are composed of roughly 20 percent protein, it plays a significant role in maintaining healthy skin.

It supports collagen production, strengthens the skin’s natural barrier and helps your complexion bounce back from dryness and external irritation.

If you read our summer feature on natsubate (summer fatigue), you’ll recall how different ingredients can warm or cool the body according to Eastern holistic nutrition principles. In winter, warming—or yang—foods take center stage.

Most protein sources like fish, meat and soy-based dishes fall into this category, helping keep your circulation flowing. Better circulation means your skin gets the nutrients it needs to stay supple, not flaky.

What to eat: Fish, chicken, pork, tofu, eggs, miso, edamame, mackerel, whitebait, soy milk

If your schedule is packed (and let’s be honest, whose isn’t?), you may not always hit every nutrient naturally. In that case, adding supplements or daily vitamins can help fill in the gaps—preferably as a last resort, though.

8. Take Advantage Of Japan’s Winter Beauty Gadgets

Unique Japanese Goods to Warm You Up This Winter FemOnTech On Kyu Petit

From mini steamers to heated insoles, these innovative tools in Japan don’t just keep you cozy—they actively support circulation, boost hydration and help your skincare products work harder. Think of it as giving your skin a warm hug from the inside out. Even better? Many of these gadgets are affordable, easy to use at home and feel very luxurious after a long, chilly day.

We actually have an article that lists a variety of unique Japanese goods to warm you up this winter, so be sure to check it out. And if you’re after even weirder yet wonderful Japanese beauty gadgets, we have those covered too.

9. Get Your Beauty Rest

Young woman sleeping on bed in the morning

Of all the winter skincare tips, this one might be the easiest to overlook: good sleep is genuinely one of the best beauty treatments you can give yourself. When you sleep well, your body releases growth hormone, which supports healthy cell turnover—essentially helping your skin repair, renew and stay resilient.

When you don’t get enough rest, cortisol can rise, disrupting the turnover of your skin’s protective outer layer. This can reduce sebum production, weaken the skin barrier and leave your complexion looking dull or irritated.

And like some other tips on this list, this advice isn’t unique to Japan either. Japan does, however, make it easier to put into practice with various products, similar to the ones mentioned above, designed for nighttime relaxation. You’ll find a huge range of fun and genuinely effective sleep-supporting products at most variety shops and drug stores for a heavenly night’s sleep.

Aim for seven to eight hours of restful sleep to improve blood circulation and promote skin regeneration.

10. Time To Relax (& Maybe Get A Beauty Treatment)

Relaxation isn’t just a luxury; it’s one of the most underrated essentials for healthy skin. When you’re stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which can slow down cell turnover, weaken the skin barrier and make dryness even worse. Taking time to decompress can have a visible, almost immediate effect on how your skin feels and looks.

Begin with simple, at-home habits that naturally help your body unwind, allowing your nervous system and complexion to reset:

A warm bath before bed (remember—38 to 40 degrees for 10 minutes)
Gentle stretching or yoga
Deep breathing exercises
Using some Japanese essential oils
Sipping a herbal tea
Five quiet minutes with your phone on airplane mode

Truly Treat Yourself

If you want to take it one step further, winter is an ideal time to consider a professional beauty treatment. Of course, it’s completely optional, but a session at a salon can help revive dull, dehydrated skin while giving you the kind of deep relaxation that’s hard to replicate at home. Plus, letting someone else massage away the tension while applying hydrating masks and warm towels is a pretty blissful way to spend an afternoon during the cold winter season.

Beauty salons across Japan offer special winter menus designed to combat seasonal dryness, from moisture-rich facials to aromatherapy treatments. If you’re curious to try one, check out our list of the best beauty salons in Tokyo, or try a Japanese beauty booking app like Hot Pepper Beauty or Rakuten Beauty to book something nationwide.

We hope you can keep your skin happy, hydrated and radiant all season long. Ready to put these tips into action? Start small by trying one ritual today and see the difference for yourself!

This article, originally by Emi Schemmer, has been updated with additional information by The Savvy Team for 2025.