Every winter the same cycle: tight cheeks, flaky shins, cracked knuckles. Creams help, but the missing step in most winter routines is an occlusive layer of the right oil — pressed onto damp skin so it locks water in instead of letting the dry air pull it out.
The winter shortlist
1. Sweet almond — the all-rounder
Vitamin-E rich, gentle, affordable enough to use head to toe. The classic Indian winter body oil.
2. Avocado — for the driest skin
Thick with oleic acid and vitamins A, D and E, avocado oil is the one to reach for when skin is genuinely parched — shins, elbows, heels.
3. Sesame — the warming traditional
The oil Ayurveda prescribes for winter abhyanga (self-massage). Warming, grounding, and excellent for the whole body before a shower.
4. Borage or evening primrose — for the face
Their GLA content makes them the specialists for tight, flaky, reactive winter faces — a few drops mixed into your night cream.