How to Take Care of Skin in Winter Naturally: The Ultimate Indian Home Remedies Guide
Winter in India has its charm, warm haldi doodh, cosy sweaters, sunshine naps…
But your skin? That’s a whole different story.
Cold winds, low humidity, and hot showers strip away moisture, leaving your skin dry, flaky, itchy, and sensitive. The good news? You can protect your skin naturally with age-old Indian remedies that genuinely work.
In this guide, we’re combining science-backed skincare with dadi-nani ke trusted nuskhe, designed to nourish your skin in the most natural way.
Why Does Skin Become So Dry in Winter?
During winter,
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humidity drops
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Moisture evaporates faster
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natural oils deplete
- The skin barrier weakens
This leads to:
✔️ dullness
✔️ itchiness
✔️ dry patches
✔️ tightness
✔️ redness
The solution?
Hydration + nourishment + gentle care.
And that’s where nature works beautifully.
1. Start Your Morning With a Gentle Cleansing Routine
Avoid face washes that foam excessively; they strip natural oils.
Instead, use:
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Honey + raw milk cleanser
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Besan + rose water paste (very gentle)
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Aloe vera gel + a few drops of coconut oil for dry skin
These home-made cleansers maintain your skin’s moisture barrier while removing dirt effectively.
2. Oil Massage (Abhyanga) – The Secret to Winter Glow
Winter skincare in India is incomplete without an oil massage.
Best natural oils for winter:
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Cold-pressed coconut oil (deep nourishment)
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Sweet almond oil (great for dull, dry skin)
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Sesame oil (Ayurvedic favourite for the winter season)
Massage for 5–7 minutes before bath to boost circulation and lock moisture naturally.
For babies and adults, traditional oiling is a game-changer, and forms the heart of CITTA’s philosophy too.

3. Use Natural Moisturisers That Actually Work
Your moisturiser needs to be:
✔️ thick
✔️ nourishing
✔️ barrier-protecting
✔️ free from harsh chemicals
Natural ingredients that help:
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Aloe vera
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Shea butter
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Ghee
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Coconut oil
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Oat extracts
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Ceramides (skin-barrier strengthening)
Aloe vera + glycerin is an excellent DIY combination for quick hydration.
4. Hydrate From Within (Most Ignored Step!)
We drink less water in winter, and it shows on the skin.
Try:
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Warm water with honey
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Jeera water
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Tulsi + lemon infused water
Also include water-rich fruits like:
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oranges
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cucumbers
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sweet lime
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pomegranate
Good hydration = naturally glowing skin.
5. Use Indian Face Packs Weekly for Winter Glow
Here are powerful home remedies that are gentle and effective:
• Honey + Malai Pack
Deeply moisturises and brightens.
• Banana + Honey Mash
Repairs dry, flaky skin.
• Aloe Gel + Haldi + Milk
Great for sensitivity and redness.
• Mashed Papaya Pack
Softens and rejuvenates skin.
Use 2–3 times a week for visible results.
6. Switch to Lukewarm Water (Not Hot!)
Hot showers feel great, but strip essential oils.
This makes your skin extra-dry and can trigger irritation.
Use warm water instead
- Apply moisturiser immediately on damp skin (“moisture-lock method”).
7. Use Sunscreen Even in Winter
Most people skip sunscreen in winter; that’s a mistake.
UV rays are still active.
Dry, damaged skin is even more prone to pigmentation in winter.
Choose hydrating sunscreens that protect and nourish, especially those with:
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SPF 50 or higher
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PA+++
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non-greasy texture
- moisturising ingredients
8. Strengthen Your Skin Barrier Naturally
The skin barrier is your protection layer, and winter weakens it.
Natural ways to repair the skin barrier:
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Use aloe vera gel
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Apply squalane or almond oil at night
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Avoid over-scrubbing
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Switch to creamy cleansers
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Use ceramide-based moisturisers
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Add oat-infused products
Healthy barrier = soft, glowing, irritation-free winter skin.
9. Nourish Yourself with Warm, Healthy Foods
Winter skincare is also internal.
Eat more:
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ghee
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dates
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til laddoos
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nuts & seeds
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haldi doodh
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green vegetables
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oranges & strawberries (rich in Vitamin C)
These foods naturally improve skin texture and immunity.
10. Follow a Simple Night Routine
Night is when your skin heals.
Here’s an easy, natural winter night routine:
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Wash with a mild cleanser
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Apply aloe vera gel or rose water
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Use a nourishing cream or natural oil
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Seal with a thick moisturiser or butter
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Sleep well (very important!)
Skin repairs better when you rest well.
CITTA’s Natural Philosophy Fits Perfectly Here
At CITTA, every formula is crafted using:
✔️ Indian traditional wisdom
✔️ modern skin science
✔️ safe, transparent ingredients
✔️ pediatrician & dermatologist approvals
CITTA's skincare range is rooted in the same approach you trust - natural nourishment, transparency, and gentle care that respects your skin barrier.
Because… WHY NOT choose products that honour tradition and science together?
Also Read: 10 Best Fruits for Skin Glow (Dermatologist-Approved & Science-Backed List!)
Final Thoughts
Winter skincare doesn’t have to be complicated.
With a mix of gentle routines, natural ingredients, and Indian home remedies, you can easily keep your skin soft, glowing, and healthy.
Stay consistent. Be gentle. Trust nature.
And remember, the best skincare is the one that respects your skin barrier.
FAQs
1. How often should I moisturise my skin in winter?
At least twice a day, morning and night. Reapply if skin feels dry.
2. Is coconut oil good for winter skincare?
Yes! It nourishes deeply and prevents moisture loss. Patch-test if you have acne-prone skin.
3. Which natural ingredients are best for dry winter skin?
Aloe vera, honey, ghee, shea butter, almond oil, and oats work beautifully.
4. Can I skip sunscreen in winter?
No. UV rays are present year-round and can cause tanning & pigmentation.
5. What is the best home remedy for glowing skin in winter?
Honey + malai + haldi applied 2–3 times weekly gives excellent results.
Also Read: Damaged Skin Barrier: Signs, Causes & Dermatologist-Approved Fixes
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Baby Skin Care Tips Every New Parent Should Know
There’s nothing softer, purer, or more precious than your baby’s skin. But that also means it’s more delicate and vulnerable - to dryness, rashes, and irritation. As new parents, you...
Read moreBaby Skin Care Tips Every New Parent Should Know
There’s nothing softer, purer, or more precious than your baby’s skin. But that also means it’s more delicate and vulnerable - to dryness, rashes, and irritation. As new parents, you want to give your baby the gentlest care possible - something safe, effective, and inspired by the wisdom of generations. At CITTA, we believe that baby skincare should be a mindful ritual - rooted in dadi-nani ke nuskhe, yet perfected with modern dermatological science. Here’s your dermatologist-approved guide to understanding, protecting, and nourishing your little one’s skin naturally. 1. Understand Your Baby’s Skin A newborn’s skin is thinner and more sensitive than an adult’s, making it prone to dryness and irritation. Their skin barrier is still developing, so using gentle, chemical-free, and pH-balanced products is essential. CITTA Tip: Choose products that are free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, and synthetic fragrances.Try: CITTA Natural Foaming Baby Wash - made with Coconut Oil, Aloe Vera, and Rice Protein, this gentle cleanser maintains skin’s natural pH while preventing rashes and dryness. 2. Moisturize Daily - The Secret to Rash-Free, Baby-Soft Skin Moisturizing is the most crucial baby skin care step. A rich, oil-based formula helps lock in hydration and strengthen the skin barrier. CITTA Tip: Always apply moisturizer right after bathing to seal in moisture.Try: CITTA Natural Moisturizing Baby Balm - a luxurious blend of 7 natural oils, Shea Butter, and Vitamin E that keeps your baby’s skin soft, rash-free, and nourished all day. 3. Choose the Right Bath Routine Your baby’s skin is delicate and loses moisture quickly. Keep bath time short - around 5 to 10 minutes, and use only lukewarm water. Avoid strong soaps or bubble baths that can dry out the skin. Instead, choose a gentle, pH-balanced baby wash like CITTA Gentle Foaming Baby Wash to cleanse while maintaining your baby’s natural oils. 4. Prevent Diaper Rashes Naturally The diaper area stays warm and moist, making it prone to rashes and irritation. To keep your baby comfortable, change diapers frequently, gently clean the area, allow diaper-free time daily, and apply a soothing, protective cream like CITTA Diaper Rash Cream to prevent redness, dryness, and discomfort while nourishing delicate skin. 5. Protect from Environmental Stressors Dust, pollution, and sun exposure can easily irritate your baby’s sensitive skin. Keep your baby indoors during peak sun hours and always use breathable, cotton clothing. CITTA Tip: For outdoor time, apply a gentle baby-safe sunscreen.Try: CITTA Protecting Baby Sunscreen SPF 70 PA+++, crafted with Zinc Oxide, Aloe Vera, and Shea Butter, it provides safe, non-sticky sun protection for delicate skin. 6. Massage for Healthy Skin & Better Sleep Baby massages are more than just bonding moments, they play a crucial role in improving blood circulation, strengthening muscles, and promoting better sleep. Regular gentle massages with nourishing oils like coconut or almond oil also help keep your baby’s skin soft, supple, and healthy. CITTA Tip: Warm the oil slightly before massage and use gentle, circular motions.Try: CITTA Nourishing Baby Massage Oil - enriched with Coconut, Almond, and Turmeric oils, this traditional blend improves circulation, promotes relaxation, and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier. 7. Keep Your Baby Hydrated (Inside & Out) Even though babies get most of their hydration from milk, their skin needs external hydration support too - especially during dry seasons. Use a natural face mist or moisturizer throughout the day if the skin feels dry. Try: CITTA Hydrating Face Mist with Rose & Aloe Vera - safe for babies and adults alike, this gentle mist instantly refreshes and soothes the skin. 8. Patch Test Every New Product Even natural ingredients can cause reactions if your baby’s skin is sensitive to them. Always do a small patch test on your baby’s inner arm or thigh before applying any new product all over. Because WHY NOT? Give Your Baby the Care They Deserve At CITTA, we’ve got everything your little one’s skin could ever need, and then some!Safety? Absolutely.100% transparency? You bet.Dermatologist-tested and inspired by grandma’s wisdom - that’s the CITTA way. When you choose CITTA, you’re not just choosing skincare; you’re choosing mindful care backed by love, science, and generations of trust. FAQs 1. What are the most important baby skin care tips for newborns? Keep baths short, use mild cleansers, moisturize daily, and protect from harsh sunlight and rashes. 2. Which baby skincare products are best for sensitive skin? Use dermatologist-tested products like CITTA Baby Balm, CITTA Baby Wash, and CITTA Baby Massage Oil - all made from natural, chemical-free ingredients. 3. How often should I bathe my newborn? 3–4 times a week is enough for newborns. Over-bathing can cause dryness. 4. Can I use regular lotion on my baby? No. Baby skin is more delicate, so always use a product specifically formulated for babies, like CITTA Moisturizing Baby Balm. 5. How can I prevent diaper rashes? Keep the area clean and dry, change diapers often, and apply CITTA’s Natural Baby Balm after every change. 6. Are natural or Ayurvedic baby products safe? Yes, as long as they’re dermatologically tested and free from harmful chemicals. CITTA blends Ayurveda with science to ensure safety. 7. Can I use baby products on my own skin? Absolutely! CITTA’s baby range is gentle, nourishing, and perfect for adults with sensitive skin too. 8. When should I start using baby skincare products? You can begin from day one, as long as the products are safe, natural, and dermatologist-approved, like CITTA’s newborn-safe range.
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Castor Oil vs Coconut Oil for Baby Massage – Wh...
In every Indian household, baby massage is more than just a daily ritual; it’s an age-old tradition rooted in love and wisdom. From dadi-nani ke nuskhe (grandmother’s tips) to modern...
1 commentRead moreCastor Oil vs Coconut Oil for Baby Massage – Which Is Better?
In every Indian household, baby massage is more than just a daily ritual; it’s an age-old tradition rooted in love and wisdom. From dadi-nani ke nuskhe (grandmother’s tips) to modern dermatologists’ recommendations, parents have always looked for the best oil for newborn massage that keeps their baby’s skin soft, strong, and healthy. Among the many choices, two oils always spark debate: castor oil for baby massage and coconut oil for baby massage. Both are trusted, both are natural, but which one is truly better for your little one? Let’s dive in. Why Baby Massage Matters In India, baby massage is not just skincare; it’s an emotional bonding experience. Traditionally done every morning, it is believed to: Strengthen muscles and bones Improve blood circulation Aid digestion and sleep Nourish and protect delicate skin And of course, the choice of oil makes all the difference. Coconut Oil for Baby Massage Coconut oil is one of the most commonly recommended oils for baby massage, especially in tropical climates. Benefits of Coconut Oil for Baby Massage: Light & Non-Sticky: Quickly absorbed by delicate skin, making it ideal for daily use. Cooling Effect: Naturally soothes the skin, perfect for summers or hot weather. Skin Protection: Its antimicrobial properties help reduce the chances of skin infections. Hair & Scalp Care: Helps reduce dryness and keeps the scalp nourished. Gentle on Sensitive Skin: Less greasy, making it a favorite among parents worldwide. However, coconut oil may not provide enough nourishment in harsh winters when skin tends to get extra dry. Castor Oil for Baby Massage Castor oil has been trusted for generations, especially during winter or when babies have dry skin. Benefits of Castor Oil for Baby Massage: Deep Nourishment: Rich in fatty acids that moisturize deeply. Strengthens Muscles & Bones: A popular choice in traditional massage routines. Soothes Irritation: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Hair Growth Support: Helps strengthen roots and promote healthy hair. But unlike coconut oil, castor oil is thicker and stickier, which may feel heavy during hot or humid weather. If you’d like to explore more about castor oil’s skin benefits, check our detailed guide: 5 Surprising Benefits of Using Castor Oil for Baby Skin Care. Castor Oil vs Coconut Oil – The Key Difference When deciding between castor oil and coconut oil for baby massage, the difference lies in texture, climate suitability, absorption, and specific skin needs. Texture: Coconut oil has a light and smooth consistency, making it easy to spread and massage into your baby’s skin without leaving residue. Castor oil, on the other hand, is thicker and denser, giving a richer, more protective layer on the skin. This makes castor oil especially beneficial for babies with dry or flaky skin. Climate Use: Coconut oil naturally provides a cooling effect, which is why it is the go-to choice for hot and humid climates. It keeps the skin fresh and non-sticky even during summer. Castor oil works best in cold or dry climates because its heavier texture helps lock in moisture and prevent the skin from drying out in the winter months. Absorption: Coconut oil is known for its fast absorption, quickly sinking into the skin without greasiness. This makes it ideal for daily massages, even if you’re short on time. Castor oil, however, takes longer to absorb, but in return, it offers deep moisturization that lasts longer, creating a protective barrier against dryness. Skin Concerns: Coconut oil is more suited for normal to sensitive skin types, thanks to its gentle, soothing, and antimicrobial nature. Castor oil is best for babies with very dry, rough, or flaky patches, as it delivers intense hydration and helps calm irritation. In short: Choose coconut oil if you want a lightweight, cooling, and quick-absorbing option for everyday massage, especially in warmer weather. Choose castor oil if your baby needs deep nourishment, extra hydration, or lives in a colder, drier region. A Thoughtful Alternative – Why Choose One When You Can Have Both? Instead of choosing between the two, many parents prefer a balanced oil that combines the goodness of castor oil, coconut oil, and other natural oils. That’s exactly what you get with CITTA Natural Nourishing Baby Massage Oil. Why Parents Love CITTA: 12 Oils in 1 Blend – Includes Castor oil, Coconut oil, Almond, Sesame, Olive, Sunflower, Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Basil, Brahmi, Cinnamon & Camphor oils. Lightweight yet Nourishing – Absorbs easily without feeling sticky. Season-Friendly – Works equally well in summer and winter. Safe for Babies – Dermatologist-tested, toxin-free, cruelty-free, and allergen-free. Multi-Purpose – Can be used on both skin and hair. With CITTA, you don’t have to worry about choosing; you give your baby the balanced nourishment of both oils in one safe, modern, and effective formula. Add to cart Conclusion When it comes to castor oil vs coconut oil for baby massage, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both are treasures of Indian tradition, each offering unique benefits. But for today’s parents who want safety, nourishment, and convenience in one, CITTA Baby Massage Oil brings the perfect solution, a thoughtful blend of 12 natural oils, inspired by dadi-nani’s nuskhe, designed for modern parenting. Because when it comes to your baby’s skin, why settle for one when you can have it all? FAQs 1. Which is better for newborn massage, coconut oil or castor oil? Coconut oil is lighter, making it more suitable for newborns. Castor oil can be used occasionally in winter for extra nourishment. 2. Can I mix castor oil and coconut oil at home? Yes, but getting the right balance and purity can be tricky. A pre-formulated blend like CITTA Baby Massage Oil ensures safety and consistency. 3. Is coconut oil enough for dry baby skin? It works for mild dryness, but for very dry skin, castor oil or a multi-oil blend is better. 4. Can castor oil be used in summer? It’s safe but may feel heavy on your baby’s skin in hot weather. Coconut oil or a lightweight blend is preferable. 5. What’s the best oil overall for baby massage? A dermatologist-approved blend that combines coconut, castor, and other nourishing oils, like CITTA Natural Nourishing Baby Massage Oil, offers complete care.
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