Winter Skin Care Tips

Dry, flaky cheeks . . . cracked cuticles . . . parched lips . . . do these telltale signs of winter sound familiar? Colder, drier air and bitter winds outside combined with

interior heating units can really do a number on the skin.

No matter your skin concern: acne/problem, sensitive/allergic, hyperpigmentation, environmentally damaged, or anti-aging, the change of seasons may necessitate a change in skin care protocol.

What happens to skin in the winter? Our bodies are composed of nearly 70% water and the water in the body (and skin) is constantly being rebalanced based upon environmental conditions.

Dry-cold air will steal water molecules from the skin while a moist/hot environment will cause water to move from deeper layers in the skin to the surface in order to readjust the body's temperature. In winter, dry cold winds and indoor forced hot air can make even the most radiant skin look ashy and dull.

We cannot change the water balance in the air, but we can make some changes in our daily protocol to adjust to the drier atmosphere. We can also make environmental changes, like using a humidifier indoors and choosing steam heat where we have an option. Or put pots of hot water on the radiators to generate more moisture in the air. Showers will be more skin-friendly than long hot baths, and remember to leave skin slightly damp before applying moisturizers whose primary function is to hold water in the skin.

Below are a few winter skin care protocol tips from experts at DDF (Doctor's Dermatologic Formula):

• Winter Skin Care Tips: Acne/oily skin

  If you are currently using a strong benzoyl peroxide cleanser along with a topical treatment, you may find your skin is extremely dry this time of year. Think about switching to a milder cleanser like DDF Blemish Foaming Cleanser (with only 1% salicylic) rather than discontinuing your BP treatment all together. And of course, protect your skin with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with an SPF of at least 15.

• Winter Skin Care Tips: Environmentally damaged skin/anti-aging skin care

  You may want to consider a slightly richer daily moisturizer such as DDF Retinol Energizing Moisturizer to provide an extra boost of moisture and protection from the harsh winter elements.

• Winter Skin Care Tips: Irritable/dry skin

  If you suffer from eczema or dermatitis, you may notice an increase in irritation this time of year. First step? Switch to a non-drying, gentle cleanser that will do the job without stripping your skin of vital moisture or causing further problems.

  While many pharmaceutical companies offer a range of heavy-duty steroid creams to soothe eczema and similar inflammations, start with an over-the-counter product first; no need to over-medicate.

• Winter Skin Care Tips: Keep winter skin moist

  Carry a moisturizing lotion or cream with you at all times and place a tube or tub on your bedside table. Apply a generous coat to affected areas before going to bed and you will wake up to healthier, happier skin!

• Winter Skin Care Tips: Don't forget your hands and feet

  Those poor toes get jammed into boots day after day for months without even a glance down. Pamper those babies with a rich foot cream - applied while skin is still damp, followed immediately by a pair of socks. For really dry, scaly or callused areas, a foot cream containing glycolic acid, such as DDF Pedi-Cream.

• Winter Skin Care Tips: Don't forget your sunscreen

  That big yellow orb IS still up there and can still work that solar evil on your skin. Find a daily moisturizer with SPF that you like and remember to apply it to your face everyday. Skiers and snow-shovelers should be even more careful; the UV rays in the glare reflecting off the snow can age the skin faster than you may think. DDF Organic Sunblock is one of the best you can buy.

DDF Labs (Doctor's Dermatologic Formula) has variety of products to cleanse, tone, moisturize, exfoliate, soothe and repair. The most effective winter skin care available without a prescription.

DDF was founded and is run by Howard Sobel, M.D., a leading New York City dermatologist.

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This article is for information only. It does not purport to offer medical advice.

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