How to Choose a Face Cream for the Heating Season: What to Check on the Label

During the heating season, indoor air gets drier, while cold and wind outdoors can make skin uncomfortable. Moisturising therefore becomes especially important in daily facial care. The Ukrainian outlet Glavred, cited by the Latvian portal Jauns.lv, says a minimalist approach remains relevant in 2026: instead of using many active products, it is better to pick a cream suited to your skin type.

What to look for in the ingredients

When choosing a cream, it is worth checking the ingredient list on the packaging (INCI), which uses internationally recognised names. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid help retain moisture. Ceramides, which naturally form part of the skin's protective layer, and squalane support the skin barrier. Niacinamide, panthenol, beta-glucan and Centella Asiatica can be useful for dry or irritation-prone skin. Still, a cream's effectiveness depends on its overall formula, not a single ingredient.

Determining your skin type at home

In the evening, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and apply neither cream nor serum. After 30–60 minutes, note how the skin feels and whether it looks shiny and oily. Dry skin tends to feel tight, rough or flaky; oily skin shows shine across most of the face; combination skin shines mainly in the T-zone. The test gives only a rough idea.

Recommendations by skin type

• Oily and combination skin: lightweight gels, lotions, fluids or emulsions containing glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and niacinamide. Zinc PCA is often used for skin prone to oiliness.
• Dry skin: a richer cream with ceramides, squalane, plant oils, cholesterol or urea. Petrolatum forms a protective layer and reduces moisture loss.
• Sensitive skin: products with a simple formula and no fragrance. Test any new product on a small patch of skin first; if irritation, marked redness or itching recurs, stop using it and consult a dermatologist if needed.
• Normal skin: a medium-weight cream or light emulsion is usually enough.

Use in the cold season

Apply the cream after washing, on slightly damp skin. If tightness or flaking appears, a light gel can be replaced with a richer cream. Sunscreen should still be used during the day.