The Winter Skin And Scalp Rx

Winter may bring cozy vibes, but for skin and scalp, it’s a stress test. Cold temps, low humidity, and constant indoor heating can leave clients dry, flaky, and irritated. For beauty professionals, this season is an opportunity to position services, treatments, and retail regimens that keep skin healthy and clients loyal. 

Prioritize Barrier Care 

According to Patricia Boland, SVP of R&D and Quality at Colorescience, barrier resilience is the foundation of winter skin health. “Vitamin D plays such a crucial role in our barrier health, including hydration levels, skin immunity, renewal and repair, and overall more resilient, healthy skin,” she explains. Since about 50% of the global population has vitamin D insufficiency, especially in colder months, pros can use barrier-support products to help prepare and strengthen skin both in treatments and at home. 

Boland also reminds pros that SPF remains a daily essential—even in winter. “Cumulative exposure adds up and can lead to advanced photo aging and even skin cancer,” she says. Powder formulas make it easy to protect the scalp and hairline without mess—don’t forget to suggest at checkout.  

Treat Winter Skin Shifts

For master esthetician Jenna Crandall, the most consistent winter issues are dehydration and rosacea flare-ups. “To prevent dryness and rosacea, I use a barrier-repairing serum with ceramides, plus bakuchiol, a retinol alternative that stimulates collagen and helps control redness.”

She adds that retail is the bridge between services and results: “Retinol alternatives, serums, and moisturizers—these three products will increase the results of their clients’ treatments. It’s a win-win for everyone.” 

Don’t Forget the Scalp 

The scalp is skin, too, and it suffers in winter. Trichologist Sophia Emmanuel says pros should watch for flakes, redness, and complaints of tightness or irritation. “I explain to clients that scalp care is one of the foundations for growing healthy hair. Waiting too long to wash can increase itchiness and buildup, which doesn’t create a healthy environment for hair growth.” 

To meet these needs, she recommends add-on services like pre-shampoo treatments with Biolage Scalp Sync Purifying Concentrate or soothing options like Living Proof Scalp Care Dry Scalp Treatment to restore hydration and balance. 

Dermaplaning as a Winter Win 

Dermaplaning continues to trend—and it’s perfect for a seasonal refresh. The service, which uses a fine, sterile blade to exfoliate skin and remove hair, has gained notoriety as it leaves clients glowy without any downtime. “A signature winter facial is a great way to incorporate dermaplaning for increased hydration and exfoliation,” says Crandall. Use a system specifically created for pros like ClearChoice Dermaplaning Deluxe Kit, which has bundled everything you need to add this service to your menu.  

Skincare expert to the stars Pietro Simone emphasizes that the service belongs in professional hands: “In-clinic, it’s a precise treatment that enhances product penetration and makes application smoother. Strategically, I’d say: ask the client if she truly wants it, then perform it perfectly as an add-on service.” Pairing dermaplaning with barrier repair serums or balms ensures hydration and protection post-treatment. 

The Seasonal Opportunity 

The pros agree: winter is prime time to expand into barrier-focused facials, scalp treatments, and dermaplaning add-ons while curating at-home regimens that extend results. As Simone puts it, “Educated prescriptions not only reinforce in-salon work, they also build trust and keep retail strong.” 

By combining smart seasonal services with winter-themed retail kits—beauty professionals can keep clients glowing, comfortable, and coming back all season long.