Winter in New Zealand has its own kind of magic — crisp mornings, cosy evenings, and a slower pace. But as the temperature drops and the heaters go on, your skin can start to feel the chill.
Dry patches, dullness, tightness, or increased sensitivity? These are all signs your skin is craving more support.
At Hark & Zander, we’re here to help you build a routine that not only protects and nourishes your skin through winter — but leaves it glowing with vitality.
Here are our five winter skincare essentials, plus our go-to layering method that really works.
1. Start with a Gentle, Nourishing Cleanse
Cleansing is still step one — but in winter, it’s time to ditch harsh foams or over-exfoliating scrubs. Our Purifying Oil Cleanser is the perfect solution: it gently melts away makeup, sunscreen and impurities while respecting your skin’s natural oils.
No stripping, no stinging — just a fresh, clean canvas that feels soft and balanced.
2. Replenish Hydration with a Skin-Quenching Toner
Cold air + indoor heating = serious water loss. To counteract it, your skin needs a burst of hydration straight after cleansing. Our Hydrating Gel Toner is rich in soothing botanical extracts, including Aloe Vera to calm and comfort, and Hyaluronic Acid — a powerful humectant that draws and holds moisture deep within the skin.
Think of it as the first drink of water your skin gets — and it’s thirsty.
3. Treat & Brighten with Targeted Actives
Your skin can get a little sluggish in winter, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for dullness. Our MiracleFirm Smoothing Serum delivers brightening and firming power in a silky, lightweight formula.
Use it daily to boost radiance and help your skin stay smooth, plump, and full of life.
4. Nourish & Protect with a Rich Moisturiser
In winter, your moisturiser needs to work a little harder. Our Brightening Face The Day Crème is a beautiful morning go-to with natural antioxidants, while our Restoring Good Night Crème deeply replenishes and soothes overnight with New Zealand native Red Algae Extract, Black Fern & Green Tea.
Both are designed to lock in hydration and keep your skin’s barrier strong — essential in the cooler months.
5. Seal the Deal with SkinTonic Face Oil
If you’re not using a face oil yet — winter is the perfect time to start.
Our award-winning SkinTonic Face Oil is a beautifully refined, fast-absorbing blend of cold-pressed Kōakaheart and Grape Seed Oils, designed to:
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Lock in long-lasting moisture
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Strengthen and support the skin barrier
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Defend against environmental stressors
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Deliver essential fatty acids for a dewy, healthy glow
This luxurious yet lightweight oil is your skin’s secret weapon against winter stress — deeply comforting, non-comedogenic, and perfectly balanced for daily use.
At its heart is Sativelle3™, our signature active — a triple skin shield that calms redness, soothes irritation, and supports your skin’s natural equilibrium.
Infused with Sea Buckthorn, rich in antioxidants and collagen-supporting nutrients, and delicately perfumed with Grapefruit and Ylang-Ylang, the SkinTonic Face Oil not only nourishes your skin — it indulges your senses.
It’s your skin’s secret weapon against winter stress — lightweight, fast-absorbing, and deeply comforting.
How to Layer Your Winter Skincare Like a Pro
Here’s the layering routine we recommend for maximum results and minimal fuss:
- Cleanse with Purifying Oil Cleanser
- Hydrate with Hydrating Gel Toner
- Treat with MiracleFirm Smoothing Serum
- Moisturise with Brightening Face The Day Crème (AM) or Restoring Good Night Crème (PM)
- Seal with SkinTonic Face Oil (AM and/or PM, 2–3 drops pressed into skin)
Pro tip: For extra hydration, add a drop of oil into your crème before applying — especially if your skin’s feeling extra dry.
Your Skin Deserves to Thrive — Even in Winter
Cold weather doesn’t mean your glow has to hibernate. With the right products, a simple routine, and a little self-care, your skin can feel soft, supple, and luminous all season long.
Explore our winter-ready skincare and find your new favourites!
