Blustery winter winds and dry indoor heat take their toll on our skin, but you don't have to suffer, says Dr. Kenneth Beer, who has a private practice in Palm Beach, Fla., and teaches dermatology at the University of Miami. Choosing the correct moisturizer is the key to keeping your skin soft and healthy.
"The best type of moisturizer is one that agrees with your skin," Dr. Beer tells Newsmax. "I like to look for one with certain ingredients that form barriers between your skin and the environment, such as petrolatum or silicone. They will help keep moisture in your skin.
"In addition to petrolatum and silicone, also look for products containing glycerin because it can soften your skin and attract water to it," Dr. Beer says. "Squalane, which is a natural ingredient that softens skin, and hyaluronic acid also attract water.
"Also keep an eye out for lactic acid and glycolic acid. Both are great at softening skin, but they can be irritating and may need to be mixed with a regular moisturizer.
"If you're not going to be at the beach or skiing, I don't think you need sunscreen," he says. "I really don't like to mix moisturizers and sun protection because I think it 'dumbs down' both of them. For the winter months, I prefer pure moisturizers to decrease the risk of an irritant to the skin or an allergic reaction due to the sunscreen."
Take precautions to keep showers and baths from drying your skin. "Don't use extremely hot water, and take shorter showers and baths," Dr. Beer says. "As soon as you get out of the shower or bath, apply moisturizer to seal in moisture."
If you're braving snow, Dr. Beer makes an exception to his general recommendation of not using sunscreen in winter: "Be aware that the snow reflects a lot of sun, so wear sun protection." He also gives other precautions for saving your skin when out in a snowy winter environment: "Wear lip balm to protect your lips, and use moisturizers all over your body — put some extra on the end of your nose to protect it. And don't forget to drink a lot of fluids."
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