I am not a winter person. The only things I genuinely enjoy are the one or two days when the snow actually looks pretty before it melts into gray slush, and my unapologetic love for coats. Beyond that, winter and I have never been friends. But even I can admit the season serves one very specific purpose. It is the perfect time for high maintenance prep.
In the gym world people treat winter as bulking season, the phase where you put in the heavy work so the results show later. This is the beauty version of that. Less sun, fewer plans, more time indoors, and a naturally slower pace create the perfect conditions for treatments that need downtime or consistency. Winter becomes the season to get ahead, to refine the details, and to set yourself up for a year that feels more low effort and less chaotic. It is not about loving winter. It is about using it.
1. Brow Lamination
Brow lamination gives you that lifted, fluffy, polished-brow look that makes your face instantly look more put together. Winter is the perfect time to do it because you’re sweating less, you’re inside more, and the results last beautifully.
Where to go: Brow studios that specialize in lamination or licensed estheticians.
How often: Every 6 to 8 weeks.
At-home alternative: Brow soap or a strong clear gel for that structured, brushed-up finish.
2. Lash Lift & Tint
If you want to wake up looking awake, this is your girl. A lash lift opens the eyes, adds curl, and the tint gives natural definition without mascara. It’s the ultimate low-maintenance beauty trick.
Where to go: Lash studios or certified lash technicians.
How often: Every 6 to 8 weeks.
At-home alternative: A lash serum for growth plus a tubing mascara for a long-lasting, smudge-free lift.
3. Laser Hair Removal
Winter is the best time to start laser because your skin isn’t exposed to the sun. Most providers recommend avoiding tanning entirely, which makes this season ideal.
Where to go: Dermatology clinics or reputable med spas with licensed laser techs.
How often: Every 4 to 6 weeks for 6 to 8 sessions total.
At-home alternative: IPL devices for long-term hair reduction and maintenance.
4. Teeth Whitening
There’s something about a bright smile in the winter that feels fresh and clean. Whether you’re doing holiday events or just want to feel more polished, this is the easiest upgrade.
Where to go: Dental offices for in-office whitening or custom trays.
How often: Every few months, depending on lifestyle.
At-home alternative: Whitening strips, LED kits, or whitening pens for touch-ups.
5. Russian Manicure
This is the manicure that actually holds up. A Russian manicure gives perfect cuticles, clean details, and polish that stays for weeks. It makes your hands look intentional without constant upkeep.
Where to go: Nail techs trained in Russian or e-file techniques.
How often: Every 3 to 4 weeks.
At-home alternative: Gel polish with a mini UV lamp and a gentle cuticle remover for a clean finish.
6. Hair Botox or Hair Gloss
Winter air can make hair look dull, frizzy, or tired. A hair botox treatment smooths and strengthens, while a gloss brings shine and richness back.
Where to go: Most hair stylists offer glosses as a standard service, so you can book this anywhere you get your hair done. Hair botox varies by salon, so inquire ahead of time to make sure they offer the treatment and use a formula you trust.
How often: Hair botox lasts 3 to 4 months. Gloss lasts 4 to 6 weeks.
At-home alternative: Clear shine treatments, bonding masks, or weekly hydrating hair masks.
7. Chemical Peels
Welcome to peel season. With the sun hiding for months, winter is the safest time to try a chemical peel for texture, brightness, and clarity. The downtime is also easier when you’re bundled up anyway.
Where to go: Dermatologists or licensed estheticians trained in chemical peels.
How often: Light peels every 4 to 6 weeks. Medium peels a few times per year.
At-home alternative: Gentle exfoliating acids like lactic or mandelic for routine skin clarity.
8. Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Cold weather brings sluggishness, bloating, and that “heavy” feeling. Lymphatic massages help you de-puff, stimulate circulation, and feel lighter.
Where to go: Massage therapists specializing in lymphatic techniques or med spa professionals.
How often: Weekly or biweekly for best results.
At-home alternative: Dry brushing, body gua sha, or stomach lymphatic rollers for daily maintenance.
Do you need all of this? Absolutely Not.
Are these things necessary? No. Are they fun? Yes (well, not all….). Are some expensive? Most definitely. Winter can feel long and mentally draining, so having something to look forward to makes the season softer and more enjoyable. And if you want to mix a few professional treatments with a few at-home moments, that’s the sweet spot.
You do NOT need to do the entire list. You don’t even need to do half. As long as you’re taking care of yourself, keeping up with your hygiene, and doing the routines that make you feel grounded, that’s more than enough.
Winter gives you quiet time. If you choose to use that time to refresh, reset, or glow up a little, let it be fun and not pressure. Your routine is yours. Your maintenance is yours. And your comfort matters more than any treatment.
Tell us in the comments if you do any of these, which ones you recommend, or what winter maintenance rituals you absolutely love. We want to hear all of it.