The Best Drugstore Cold Cream for Winter

The Best Drugstore Cold Cream for Winter


After reviewing two standout products from Korean skincare—Beauty of Joseon Deep Glow Serum and Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice & Probiotics SPF50—I wanted to shift focus to European cosmetics, which have earned my trust over the years.

Among them, Bioderma, a brand renowned for its dermatologist-approved, science-backed formulations, has consistently impressed me with its commitment to sensitive and reactive skin.

One of its standout products, the Bioderma Atoderm Nutritive Cream, has been my go-to moisturizer for several winters, and today, I’m excited to share why it holds such a special place in my routine.

While a reliable skincare routine is essential for managing reactive and sensitive skin, maintaining a healthy diet plays a critical role as well, especially during the colder months. I’ve written an article on superfoods for glowing skin, which highlights nutrient-rich foods that help boost hydration, reduce inflammation, and promote overall skin health.

But let’s not focus on that now. You might be wondering—what makes Bioderma Atoderm Nutritive Cream so special? Soon, you’ll find out.

The Formula

The formula of Bioderma Atoderm Nutritive Cream is thoughtfully designed for sensitive skin that is dry to very dry, emphasizing gentleness and effectiveness.

It’s free from parabens, artificial fragrances, and harsh ingredients that can trigger reactions, making it perfect for my reactive skin.

Key Ingredients

Atoderm Nutritive, an intensive nourishing cream, contains two natural active ingredients (shea and avocado extracts) known for their nourishing, restorative, and soothing properties, and two moisturizing active ingredients (petrolatum and glycerine).

  • Shea Butter & Avocado Oil. Deeply nourishing and replenishing, these ingredients help restore the skin’s lipid barrier and maintain softness.
  • Glycerin. A humectant that draws moisture into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration.
  • Beeswax. Forms a protective barrier to lock in moisture and shield skin from environmental aggressors, ideal for harsh winter weather.

These carefully selected ingredients ensure that the cream not only hydrates but also protects and soothes sensitive skin.

Claims, Recommendations, and Cautions

Bioderma Atoderm Nutritive Cold Cream

  • Intense hydration and nourishment for dry, sensitive skin.
  • Good makeup base.
  • A velvety, non-greasy texture that absorbs easily.
  • No added fragrances.
  • Very well tolerated – non-comedogenic.
  • Long-lasting comfort and smoothness, even in cold or harsh climates.
  • Rinses smoothly.
  • Clinical trials show 95.6% more moisture 2 hours after use. This effect persists after 8 hours (+60.7%) and after 24 hours (+24.1%).
  • Tested under the supervision of dermatologists.
  • It is mostly dedicated to super dry skin types, so for those with oily skin this moisturizer may be too rich.

The Price

  • United States (US): Approximately $16 (40 ml)
  • Europe (EU): Approximately €12.50 to €15.00 (40 ml)
  • United Kingdom (UK): Approximately £10.00 to £12.00 (40 ml)

These prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer, location, and any ongoing sales or promotions. Always compare prices across retailers like Amazon, Boots, Beauty Bay, or Superdrug for the best deal.

The Texture

The Texture of Bioderma Cold Cream

The creamy yet lightweight texture of this moisturizer makes it a pleasure to use. It glides smoothly over the skin, absorbing without leaving a greasy residue.

Bioderna Atoderm Nutritive Cold Cream

Despite its richness, it doesn’t feel heavy or clog pores, making it a great choice for layering under sunscreen or light makeup.

My Favourite Cold Cream

After using this cream for multiple cold seasons, it has proven itself to be a skincare hero:

  • My skin feels consistently soft, smooth, and protected, even in the harshest weather.
  • It’s excellent at tackling dryness and preventing flaky patches, which used to be a constant struggle for me.
  • It helps to deal with my skin’s redness.
  • Has a huge impact on maintaining a healthy and strong skin barrier.

Summary

Main Pros

  • Long-term suitability for dry and reactive skin.
  • Provides intense hydration and nourishment without irritation.
  • Forms a protective barrier against harsh winter elements.
  • Rich yet non-greasy texture that absorbs well.
  • Fragrance-free and safe for sensitive skin.

Main Cons

  • May feel too rich for oily or acne-prone skin types.
  • Needs to be washed very well after all day.
  • Personally, I would use it only in harsh, windy, and cold weather. In warm or hot climate conditions I use more lightweight moisturizers.

The Best Drugstore Cold Cream for Winter

⭐ Rating: 4.6/5

The Bioderma Atoderm Nutritive Cream has been my main cold-weather moisturizer for years, and I can’t imagine my winter skincare routine without it. It’s a true savior for dry and reactive skin, offering reliable hydration and protection season after season.

If you’re looking for a cream to combat dryness during cold weather while keeping your sensitive skin calm and happy, this is a product you’ll want to add to your arsenal!