As winter arrives in South Africa, many of us begin to notice the subtle (and not-so-subtle) changes in our skin—dryness, tightness, flakiness, and that elusive glow suddenly feeling out of reach.
But the good news? Science has given us a clear roadmap on how to adapt. These winter skincare shifts are not just trendy—they’re evidence-based, barrier-supportive, and designed to help you maintain hydration, calmness, and radiance even through the harshest months.
Here’s what you need to know.
Cold air and dry indoor heating cause a spike in transepidermal water loss (TEWL)—the skin's moisture escaping into the environment. A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science confirms that TEWL increases by more than 25% in colder months, leaving the skin vulnerable to inflammation, redness, and dehydration.
The solution? Adjust your skincare to work with the season, not against it.
Why: Gel and foam cleansers, especially those with sulfates, strip natural oils. In winter, your skin needs more nourishment and less friction.
Science: According to a clinical review in Dermatologic Therapy, cream-based cleansers help preserve lipid content and reduce skin irritation in low-humidity environments.
Tip: Look for formulas with oat extract, ceramides, or squalane.
Why: Skin becomes more sensitive and reactive in winter. You need ingredients that calm and restore.
Science: This Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology article found that niacinamide and panthenol significantly boost the skin barrier and reduce inflammation when used consistently.
Tip: Use these ingredients under your moisturiser for full-day support.
Why: Gels and light lotions may feel nice, but they won’t lock in moisture like richer formulations do.
Science: Studies published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology showed that moisturisers with the right ratio of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids dramatically reduce water loss and improve long-term barrier resilience.
Tip: Choose creams over lotions and reapply on especially dry areas like cheeks and around the mouth.
Why: Overdoing acids or physical scrubs in winter can worsen sensitivity.
Science: This Journal of Drugs in Dermatology paper highlights how enzymatic exfoliants like papain and bromelain provide a gentle, effective alternative to AHA/BHA when the skin is already compromised.
Tip: Stick to once weekly exfoliation, and follow with a barrier-restoring moisturiser.
Why: UVA rays—the ones responsible for premature aging—penetrate clouds and glass.
Science: The Skin Cancer Foundation confirms that up to 80% of UV rays still reach your skin on cloudy days.
Tip: Keep your SPF 30+ in your morning routine, especially if you’re using retinoids or exfoliating ingredients.
Topical care is vital—but to truly transform your skin, you need to nourish the dermal layer, where collagen, hydration, and firmness begin.
Backed by clinical studies, our hero product Revive Oceanglo is formulated with hydrolysed marine collagen peptides that target hydration, elasticity, and firmness at a cellular level. Clinical trials on our specific peptide matrix show:
A 40% increase in skin hydration
Significant reduction in fine lines
Improved skin density and firmness
Taking Oceanglo daily during winter helps offset TEWL, boost collagen production, and promote plump, glowing skin even when the temperatures drop.
Formulated for your evening ritual, our Moon Mylk Latte isn’t just calming—it’s clinically considered. Each serving contains:
5,000 mg of premium bovine collagen
KSM-66 Ashwagandha for stress support
Hyaluronic Acid for hydration from within
L-theanine and GABA to support relaxation and deeper sleep
Not only does this red velvet-flavoured drink promote recovery and hormone balance overnight—it helps maintain your skin’s hydration and elasticity while you sleep.
Winter is an opportunity—not a setback—for your skin. When you pivot with purpose and lean into science-backed strategies, this can be the season your skin thrives.
At Revive, our mission is to elevate your skincare from superficial to scientific—offering high-performance ingestibles that complement and enhance every topical step.
Let this winter be the one where your skin feels stronger, smoother, and truly supported—from the inside out.
Start with science. Stay consistent. And let Revive Oceanglo and Moon Mylk Latte guide your glow.
