Avoid exposing skin to harsh winter elements such as freezing temperatures and drying cold winds. Dress warmly, in layers, and wear a hat, scarf and gloves when you go out in cold weather. Wear a natural lip balm to protect your lips. A light layer of ghee (clarified butter) can also work as natural lip protection.

Protect facial skin from both cold winds and drying air from heaters with a rich natural moisturizer. Apply moisturizer at least twice a day, once after your cleansing routine in morning and again before you go to bed. Always apply moisturizer on clean skin, preferably after you apply a natural water-based toner. Your hands can also benefit from application of a rich moisturizer in winter.

Three or four times a week, offer dry facial and body skin additional lipid support with a replenishing oil. Choose a nourishing base oil such as almond. Add six-eight drops of a Vata-pacifying pure essential oil such as lavender or neroli to two ounces of base oil, and mix well. Apply to skin damp from bath or shower to seal in hydration. Test first to make sure you are not sensitive to essential oil you choose before you apply it on a regular basis.

The pre-bath warm oil ayurvedic self-massage, called abhyanga, is a must-do in winter. The massage not only keeps your skin silky-smooth, it also tones muscles, calms nerves and aids circulation. Pat excess oil off with a paper towel before you step into bath or shower, and exercise care because oil can be slippery. Choose a nourishing oil such as almond or sesame oil for massage.