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Steps to pick the right moisturizer for your skin type

In numerous regions, winter can be particularly harsh on the skin. The combination of cold, dry air outside and hot, dry heat inside creates an environment reminiscent of the Sahara Desert. Adding frequent handwashing to ward off viruses further exacerbates the issue, leading to dry, itchy skin.

For most individuals, combating dry skin involves tweaking their moisturizing routine. But with so many products available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. To guide you, we consulted board-certified dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology for their recommendations on the best moisturizers for various skin types. Here’s their advice:

Understanding Emollient Options

“There’s no universal solution for all skin types,” says Dr. Rebecca Kazin, a board-certified dermatologist in Bethesda. Moisturizers, which both hydrate the skin and prevent water loss, come in various forms like lotions, gels, creams, and ointments. Each type has its characteristics: gels are typically water-based and lighter, lotions are slightly heavier, creams have a higher oil content and are more hydrating, and ointments are the thickest, offering the most intensive moisture.

Identifying Your Skin Type

Choosing the appropriate moisturizer depends on your skin type and the level of dryness you experience. Dr. Jason A. Clark, a board-certified dermatologist in Atlanta, emphasizes that for personalized advice, seeing a dermatologist is best. However, he provides general guidelines:

  • Normal Skin: For seasonal dryness in otherwise normal skin, lotions are usually adequate for younger people. With age, skin retains less moisture, so those 50 and older should switch to a cream-based moisturizer.
  • Dry Skin: For inherently dry skin, particularly worsened by winter, creams or ointments are more effective than lotions. Dr. Clark advises starting with a cream or ointment for better hydration.
  • Oily Skin: Excessive moisturizing can clog pores and cause acne, especially in those with darker skin, leading to discoloration. Dr. Clark suggests using a gel or potentially skipping moisturizer altogether.
  • Combination Skin: For combination skin, which is dry in some areas and oily in others, Dr. Kazin recommends treating the face in sections: moisturize dry areas and avoid oily spots.

Essential Tips for Managing Dry Skin

Do’s

  • Moisturize After Showering: Apply moisturizer when the skin is damp to lock in moisture, says Dr. Clark.
  • Adapt to Seasonal Changes: Adjust your skincare routine according to the season and avoid products with alcohol, AHAs, and fragrances to maintain natural oils.
  • Choose Beneficial Ingredients: Look for ceramides and hyaluronic acid in moisturizers, as they are excellent for hydration. Avoid fragrances and be cautious with organic products that might aggravate allergies.

Don’ts

  • Neglect Sun Protection: Protect your skin from sun damage year-round with broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, advises Dr. Kazin.
  • Over-Exfoliate: Exfoliating dry, peeling skin in winter can strip away moisture. Focus on moisturizing instead to prevent dryness and pimples.

Assessing Your Skin’s Condition

If your skin becomes excessively dry—characterized by redness, cracking, itching, or rashes—Dr. Samer Jaber, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, recommends using fragrance-free cleansers or moisturizing body washes and a non-comedogenic moisturizer twice daily. If these measures don’t alleviate the dryness or if it worsens, consult a dermatologist who may prescribe treatment and help optimize your skincare routine.

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