This year, I’m embracing gentle resolutions—and one of them is refining my skincare routine and actually sticking to it. During the holidays, I spent more time than I’d like to admit researching skincare and beauty at Sephora (and I was especially inspired by the thoughtful comments on our Sephora giveaway). I added a few new products to my routine, rediscovered some longtime favorites, and leaned fully into nourishing, glow-boosting formulas.
Winter is the perfect season to focus on skin health and to experiment with beauty looks before calendars fill up again in the spring. From deeply hydrating skincare to small everyday luxuries, these are the winter beauty essentials I’ve been reaching for—along with whether they’re worth a splurge or an easy save.
Splurge: EADEM Cloud Cushion Airy Brightening Moisturizer
Why I love it:
This moisturizer delivers deep hydration without feeling heavy and leaves my skin with a healthy, luminous finish. It layers beautifully under makeup and is especially comforting during colder months when my skin needs extra nourishment.
Key benefits:
- Brightening and hydrating
- Cushiony but lightweight texture
- Ideal for winter dryness
Save Alternative: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (Face & Body)
A no-frills, dermatologist-loved option that delivers long-lasting hydration with ceramides at a fraction of the price.
Save: Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment
Why I love it:
I use this both as an overnight lip treatment and as a prep step before lipstick and it’s less pricey than some of the other popular treatments on the market. It keeps my lips soft, smooth, and hydrated without feeling sticky.
Key benefits:
- Peptide-powered hydration
- Glossy but comfortable finish
- Great under or over lip color
Splurge Alternative: Augustinus Bader The Lip Balm
A luxurious, treatment-focused lip balm that deeply nourishes and repairs dry, winter-worn lips.
Splurge: Cécred Hair & Scalp Balm
Why I love it:
I love everything in this line. The hair and scalp balm is a versatile balm-to-oil that nourishes my scalp and hair strands while adding shine and taming frizz. It’s one of those multitaskers that’s especially helpful in winter when scalp dryness, flyaways, and lackluster texture can feel more intense.
Key benefits:
- Deeply hydrates dry scalp
- Softens hair and smooths frizz
- Tames flyaways and adds shine
- Creates a protective moisture barrier
Save Alternative: Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey
A budget-friendly scalp and hair moisturizer that nourishes, controls frizz, and adds shine to dry or textured hair.
Splurge: EADEM Mami Wata Ultra-Calming Rescue Mist
Why I love it:
This soothing facial mist instantly calms my skin while delivering hydration and a gorgeous glow. It’s perfect for sensitive or reactive skin and works beautifully under or over makeup. I love using it post-cleanse, between skincare layers, or throughout the day when my skin feels tight from winter air.
Key benefits:
- Calms redness and irritation
- Lightweight, non-sticky hydration
- Great for sensitive skin
Save Alternative: La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water Spray
A simple, affordable soothing mist that helps calm irritation and refresh the skin without added actives.
Splurge: Salt & Stone Hand Cream (Santal & Vetiver)
Why I love it:
My hands get painfully dry in winter, and this hand cream truly delivers. It’s deeply nourishing without being greasy, and the Santal & Vetiver scent is addictive—reminiscent of Le Labo Santal 33, but somehow even cozier.
Key benefits:
- Rich, long-lasting moisture
- Elevated, spa-like scent
- Absorbs beautifully
Save Alternative: Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream
A cult-favorite for a reason—intensely hydrating, fragrance-free, and incredibly effective.
Splurge: EADEM Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm
Why I love it:
When I want hydration AND color, this is what I reach for. The shades are buildable and flattering, and the unique applicator feels incredibly soothing on the lips.
Key benefits:
- Hydrating with a soft wash of color
- Buildable, wearable shades
- Cooling metal applicator
Save Alternative: e.l.f. Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balm
A cult-favorite, affordable option that offers incredible shine and hydration in a range of colors.
Save: Aquaphor Hand & Foot Masks
Why I love it:
Aquaphor is a household staple for us, but these masks make it easy to get maximum hydration overnight—especially when hands and feet are cracked from cold weather.
Key benefits:
- Deep overnight hydration
- Easy, mess-free masks
- Great for very dry skin
Splurge Alternative: Patchology Rosé Fingers & Toes
A more indulgent masking experience with added botanical ingredients and a spa-like feel.
Save: Ditoi Face Towels
Why I love it:
I avoid using towels on my face, but I didn’t love how quickly I was going through pricier disposable options. These are soft, gentle, and budget-friendly, making them perfect for daily skincare routines.
Key benefits:
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Lint-free and hygienic
- Great value
Splurge Alternative: Clean Skin Club Clean Towels XL
A slightly thicker, ultra-soft disposable towel option that feels luxurious while still being practical.
Save: Nivea Nourishing Body Milk
Why I love it:
This is one of those underrated drugstore gems. It absorbs quickly, keeps my skin soft all day, and moisturizes without feeling thick or greasy.
Key benefits:
- Super lightweight but deeply moisturizing
- Affordable and effective
- Great for daily winter use
Splurge Alternative: L’Occitane Almond Milk Concentrate
A luxe body moisturizer that firms, softens, and leaves skin delicately scented.
Splurge: Flamingo Estate Green Goddess Soap
Why I love it:
Flamingo Estate’s soap bars are definitely a splurge, but they’re oversized, long-lasting, and smell absolutely incredible. The Green Goddess scent fills my entire bathroom and feels like a sunny vegetable garden escape—especially welcome in the middle of winter.
Key benefits:
- Long-lasting, oversized bar
- Transportive botanical scent
- Elevates everyday routines
Save Alternative: Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Bar Soap
A versatile, affordable bar soap with natural ingredients and a variety of scent options.
At the end of the day, a great winter beauty routine isn’t about choosing all splurges or all saves. It’s about finding what works for you. Mixing investment-worthy products with budget-friendly staples makes it easier to stay consistent while still enjoying a few small luxuries.
What are your favorite splurge worthy or budget friendly beauty finds for winter skin?
Xo, Courtney
The Real Chic Life 
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