Not only am I a skincare-obsessed mum, but I’ve also authored skincare and beauty articles and interviewed top dermatologists. So when I tell you what’s worth stocking up on this Black Friday, you can trust I’m speaking from experience!
Winter is officially here, and while the festive season is always exciting, the cold air, dry indoor heat, and constant temperature shifts can leave our skin feeling parched, irritated, and dull. As a skincare enthusiast and mum, I’ve learned the hard way that a good winter skincare routine is essential to combat these harsh elements and keep skin hydrated, glowing, and protected. With Black Friday deals in full swing, there’s no better time to stock up on the skincare essentials you’ll need to survive the cold months ahead.
To help you prep your skin for the chill, I’ve consulted two leading skincare experts to find out which products are non-negotiable this winter—and I’m sharing the best Black Friday deals you can grab right now.
From budget-friendly drugstore gems to luxurious premium picks, there’s something here for every budget. Let’s start shopping!
LIVE Black Friday deals on winter skincare
Save 46%: Aveeno Face Calm+Restore Oat Moisturiser - was £11.99, now £6.47
Save 40%: Curél Intensive Moisture Facial Cream for Dry, Sensitive Skin -was £19.50, now £11
Save 40%: Jurlique - Nutri Define Supreme Restorative Rich Cream- was £99.50, now £59.70
Save 39%: Weleda Skin Food Face Night Cream, Night Moisturiser- was £14.95, now £9.07
Save 25%: Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant - was £35, now £26.25
Save 20%: SUQQU Protecting Day Cream was £48, now £38.40
Save 20%: Clarins NEW Double Serum | Anti Aging Face Serum - was £65, now £52
Save 25%: Medik8 Advance Day Ultimate Protect SPF 50- was £59.00, now £44.25
Save £5.55: CeraVe Foaming Cleanser 473ml - was £12.95
LIVE Black Friday deals on beauty advent calendar and beauty sets
Save 32%: Jurlique 24 Day Advent Calendar- was £110, now £75
Save £20: Boots Beauty Full Size 12 Day Advent Calendar - was £99, now £74.25
Save £16: Paula’s Choice The Breakout Resolution Gift Set -was £75, now £59
When is Black Friday?
Black Friday used to be just one day, but those days are long gone. This year, Black Friday falls on November 29, but there are massive deals on now many of which will lead you straight up to Cyber Monday, December 2.
Why winter skincare is so important
Dr. Paris Acharya, leading aesthetics and skincare expert and co-founder of The Ardour, explains why winter skincare is crucial: "In winter, dry, cold air holds less moisture, which can compromise your skin's barrier. Low temperatures, harsh winds, and indoor heating strip the skin of its natural moisture, leaving it tight and uncomfortable. Hyaluronic acid is key for instant hydration—it helps the skin retain water, with just half a teaspoon holding around 3 gallons of water. It's a must-have for your daily routine."
According to Dr. Marko Lens, founder of Zelens, “In winter, skin is more likely to feel dry, and it’s important to incorporate bio-mimetic lipids like ceramides into your routine. These ingredients help replenish your skin’s moisture barrier and protect against environmental damage.”
The best Black Friday deals on winter skincare products you need this season
With expert advice in mind, here are the top winter skincare essentials you’ll need to keep your skin hydrated, glowing, and protected all season long. And the best part? These products are all on sale this Black Friday!
1. Hydrating serums
Why you need it: Winter's cold air and dry indoor heating can strip your skin of its moisture, leaving it feeling tight, dehydrated, and irritated. A hydrating serum, enriched with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, is essential for locking in moisture and preventing dryness.
Expert Tip: Dr. Paris explains, “A serum should be a vital step in your skincare regimen, especially in winter, as it contains super-concentrated amounts of active ingredients like vitamins, nutrients, hydrators, and antioxidants to provide optimal results.
Many people think moisturiser alone is enough for hydration, but as the weather gets colder and our skin becomes drier, a serum offers nourishment that moisturisers can't. The molecules in a serum are smaller, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin for more effective results."
Incorporating hyaluronic acid into your routine is non-negotiable—it helps the skin retain moisture, keeping it plump, hydrated, and radiant all winter long.
Save 20%
I’ve been a loyal Clarins Double Serum user for years, and it’s no surprise that millions of others are too, with a bottle sold every four seconds globally. This all-in-one powerhouse is the ultimate winter solution, tackling everything from fine lines and uneven skin tone to dehydration. Packed with 21 plant extracts, including antioxidant-rich turmeric, it deeply hydrates, boosts radiance, and firms the skin, making it the perfect addition to your winter skincare routine.
Clarins Double Serum is especially beneficial in winter, when your skin needs extra hydration and protection against cold, dry air. The unique blend of ingredients like oats, ginseng, and turmeric helps to lock in moisture, while promoting a more youthful, glowing complexion. Its potent formula boosts the skin’s natural ability to retain moisture, making it less likely to become irritated or dry.
While Clarins Double Serum doesn’t come cheap, now is the perfect time to grab the deal and treat your skin to this luxurious, results-driven serum.
2. Moisturisers with ceramides and omega fatty acids
Why you need it: Winter can damage your skin’s natural barrier, leaving it vulnerable to dryness and irritation. Moisturisers with ceramides and Omega-3 fatty acids help restore the skin’s protective barrier, locking in moisture and keeping it soft.
Expert tip: Dr. Marko recommends, “Ceramides and Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for replenishing the skin’s natural barrier and protecting it from the cold weather.”
Save £4.95
www.boots.com
CeraVe is one of those rare drugstore skincare brands that truly delivers, and as a skincare-obsessed mum, it’s a staple in my routine. Dermatologists I’ve interviewed often rave about it, and for good reason. The CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion, now £4.95 off at Boots, is a winter skincare essential. Working from home doesn’t mean skipping SPF—those sneaky sunrays still penetrate through window panes! Knowing this lotion is infused with SPF 30 gives me peace of mind that I’m protecting my skin from premature ageing while ticking off my to-do list.
What makes it even better is its lightweight, non-greasy formula that works beautifully for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It absorbs quickly, never feels sticky, and offers lasting hydration. With 3 Essential Ceramides, it helps restore the skin’s natural barrier and locks in moisture for up to 24 hours. Plus, 94% of users say their skin feels healthier after using it. Affordable, effective, and protective—this is one Black Friday deal you don’t want to miss!
zelens.com
Dr. Marko says, "Vitamin D is an unsung hero in skincare. I always recommend it because it provides several benefits for all skin types, particularly in the protection of the skin against environmental factors. A perfect example is the Zelens Emulsion D Moisturiser paired with a few drops of our Power D Concentrate which will help to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, build its resilience and protect the skin against environmental aggressors."
What's so great about this moisturiser is its lightweight, glides like butter on the skin yet powerful. It's a must-have for the colder months. It's enriched with bio-mimetic lipids and vitamin D, and it strengthens the skin’s natural barrier and protects against environmental aggressors.
Dermatologist tested and suitable for all skin types, it calms and replenishes dry skin, leaving your skin feeling soothed and healthy all winter long. “Lightweight yet strengthening, this moisturiser soothes, calms and protects from environmental factors” – Dr. Marko adds. Grab a deal, this one's 50% off!
3. Vitamin C for radiance and protection
Why you need it: Winter may bring less sunlight, but your skin still needs protection from environmental stressors. Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient that brightens your complexion, makes it glowing and youthful and shields against free radicals, which are even more harmful in colder weather.
Vitamin C (also known as L-ascorbic acid) helps even out skin pigmentation, boost collagen production, reduce scars, and fight free radical damage. Wondering what vitamin heals skin fast? It’s Vitamin C.
Expert tip: Dr. Paris swears by Vitamin C, saying, "No matter your skin type, I always recommend applying Vitamin C to your skin daily for brightening and collagen boosting. It is a fantastic addition to a skincare regimen as it is a potent antioxidant and great for discolouration.
Vitamin C is perfect for autumn/winter routines as it provides powerful protection against DNA damage caused by sun and pollution. It also encourages collagen production to strengthen the skin, preventing lines and wrinkles from forming."
Black Friday deal coming soon! Expect up to 40% off!
www.johnlewis.com
This super-strength vitamin C serum is the ultimate winter pick for tired, dull skin. With a potent 30% vitamin C formula, it brightens, evens skin tone, and shields from environmental stressors.
Have just been using it for a week now and my skin looks bright and healthy. Its luxurious texture provides a burst of radiance, making it ideal for mums looking for a quick glow boost during the colder months. Always patch-test before use!
4. Gentle exfoliators to combat winter dullness
Why you need it: The dry air can leave your skin looking dull and flaky. Gentle exfoliators help slough off dead skin cells and improve skin texture, allowing your other skincare products to work more effectively.
Expert tip: Dr. Marko suggests using a mild exfoliant to keep your skin looking fresh without irritating it. “Exfoliation is key in winter to prevent buildup and maintain a healthy, radiant glow.”
Save 25%
Neglecting exfoliation in winter can leave your skin extremely dry, dull, and flaky due to the build-up of dead skin cells. Combat this with skincare featuring AHAs like Mandelic Acid and Lactic Acid. These gentle chemical exfoliants work to remove dead cells from the skin's surface, revealing smoother, healthier-looking skin underneath.
This lightweight, no-rinse exfoliant from Paula's Choice is perfect for gently repairing a compromised skin barrier. It helps improve sun damage, dullness, and fine lines while visibly reducing wrinkles.
It’s formulated with 6% Mandelic Acid and 2% Lactic Acid, this exfoliant enhances skin renewal and targets discoloration without triggering post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, making it suitable for deeper skin tones. With an optimal pH range of 3.0-4.0, it’s a must-have for achieving smooth, radiant skin this winter.
5. SPF: Yes, You Still Need It in Winter!
Why you need it: Even in winter, the sun’s harmful rays can damage your skin. SPF is an absolute must every day of the year, and it’s even more important during the colder months when our skin is more sensitive. This weather is being declared an “anticyclonic gloom” (a term coined by Brits who are fed up with the gloomy weather) which essentially means weeks with no sunshine. It’s easy to forget that even in these dreary conditions, the sun’s UV rays can still be a risk. The cool, damp weather may make it tempting to forget your sunscreen, but it’s important to remember that SPF isn't just for sunny days. Despite the lack of bright, clear skies, harmful UV radiation can still reach your skin and lead to damage.
Expert tip: "Even though the sun may not feel as strong in winter, it’s crucial to apply a broad-spectrum SPF daily,” says Dr. Paris. “UV rays can still damage your skin, leading to long-term aging and irritation.”
Save 20%
www.libertylondon.com
If you’re looking for a luxurious SPF moisturiser, SUQQU Protecting Day Cream ticks all the boxes. I’ve always admired Japanese beauty brands, and SUQQU stands out for its thoughtful, innovative skincare.
This hydrating day cream with SPF 50+ doesn’t just protect against UV rays but also incorporates advanced technologies to shield your skin from external aggressors. Enriched with moisturising botanicals, it keeps your skin hydrated and glowing all day.
It’s so lightweight, you barely notice it’s there—perfect for those of us who want reliable protection without the heavy, greasy feel of traditional SPFs. Plus, it sits beautifully under makeup, making it a great multitasker for busy days.
Save 20%
Another beauty powerhouse, Medik8, may be on the pricier side, but their products are worth every penny—and with their bestsellers on sale, now’s the time to stock up! One of my personal favourites is the Advanced Day Ultimate Protect, now 25% off and absolutely worth it.
This age-defying moisturiser offers superior UVA and UVB protection while harnessing advanced DNA repair enzymes and carnosine to help your skin recover from daily damage and shield against environmental stressors. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula leaves an invisible finish, making it perfect for all skin tones. Bonus? It works beautifully under makeup, so it’s easy to incorporate into your morning routine.
Winter skincare routine for busy parents
For busy parents who are juggling little ones and skincare routines, keeping things simple yet effective is key. Dr. Paris recommends, “Stick to a creamy cleanser, followed by an antioxidant-based serum (vitamin C or niacinamide), and finish with a hydrating moisturiser. And never forget SPF, even in winter!”
Dr Paris strongly advises to avoid makeup wipes, "I recommend steering way clear of makeup wipes, especially in winter, as they can actually do more harm than good. Most makeup wipes are full of harmful chemicals that can disrupt the skin and cause barrier problems. These chemicals can be very harsh on your skin and strip the skin of its natural moisture, causing your skin to become dry and dehydrated."
With the right products and expert advice, you can give your skin the hydration and protection it needs this winter. This Black Friday, there’s no better time to stock up on these winter skincare essentials and save big on top brands. Don’t let the cold weather take a toll on your skin—shop these deals and keep your skin glowing all season long!
Winter-proof your skin: Hydrating make-up tips for radiant complexions
"Don’t overload your skin with thick and mattifying foundations. Look out for foundations and primers that claim to be moisture-enhancing and deliver buildable (rather than full) coverage. The Zelens Lens Ready Perfecting Foundation contains multiple ingredients that provide moisture to the skin while probiotics protect microbiome balance, which is very important during cold weather," says Dr. Marko.
To avoid looking cakey or having makeup settle into dry patches during colder weather, Dr. Marko advises, "Prep first with an excellent moisturiser and choose skincare that doesn’t include silicones, which can cause makeup to pill."
Black Friday deal coming soon! Expect up to 40% off!
www.johnlewis.com
This lightweight yet long-wearing BFF All Day foundation is your secret to flawless coverage without the cakey feel. Its breathable formula offers a modern, natural matte finish that lasts all day (or night). Enriched with pro-ceramides and vitamin B3, it enhances your complexion, smooths the skin, and reduces the appearance of fine lines. You can count on this comfortable coverage to stay put.
What I love most is how it feels like your skin, only better. It gives you the coverage you want while delivering the glow your skin craves. Imperfections are hidden, but your skin still looks healthy and radiant. Plus, it's makeup infused with skincare—so you look great and feel even better.
About the experts
Dr Paris Acharya co-founder of Ardour Clinic, is an expert in skin health, injectables, and hormone therapy. With dual certifications in medicine and dentistry, she combines beauty and wellness in her treatments. She also provides specialised skincare advice for babies, toddlers, and mums. Known for her natural results and meticulous care, Dr. Paris is a trusted voice in the industry and an ambassador for leading skincare brands.
Dr. Marko Lensis a globally recognised authority on skin aging and skin cancer, known for his straightforward approach to achieving radiant, healthy skin. Based in London, he is a highly sought-after plastic and reconstructive surgeon and a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of England. As the founder of the acclaimed skincare brand Zelens, Dr. Lens combines his expertise in dermatology and science to create innovative products that deliver flawless complexions and long-lasting results.
About the author
Anne Lora Scagliusi is a Senior Digital Writer at Mother & Baby. She is a Scotland-based journalist with over a decade of international writing experience, specialising in women’s health, maternal mental health, and wellness. Her work has been featured in Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, and Glamour and has appeared on several Vogue global editions. She is mum to a one-year-old bambino and lives between Italy and the UK.