Start Using a Humidifier. To remedy a dry home, bring in a humidifier and set the humidity level between 45% and 55% to infuse the air with enough moisture for your skin to reap the benefits.

Take Warm (NOT Hot!) Showers. A long hot shower may feel heavenly on cold mornings, but it strips out the water and natural oils in your skin, thus drying it out. Limit showers to 15-minutes or less using warm water rather than hot water.

Avoid Harsh Soap. Deodorant and antibacterial soaps can be especially harsh on your skin, compromising your skin’s natural moisture barrier. Instead, opt for mild, fragrance-free cleansers.

Use a Multitasking Moisturizer. After showering, blot excess water off your body instead of roughly rubbing your skin with a towel. Next, apply a body moisturizer while your skin is still damp. Look for a cream over a lotion in the winter months. Creams are typically thicker with a strong oily barrier that’s less likely to reduce water loss and more likely to hydrate the skin.

Give Hands Extra TLC. Moisturize hands every time after washing. Trade in traditional hand sanitizer for a combination sanitizer that contains moisturizer or lotion.

Don’t Ditch the SPF. So, you won’t see sunny skies as much—that doesn’t mean that UV rays have gone away. UV rays are almost just as powerful in overcast skies and the winter sun can reflect off the snow, particularly at high altitudes, so make sure you maintain a good sunscreen routine.

Don’t let cold, winter weather take a toll on your skin. Start planning your winter skin care routine now. To learn more or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Holy in Phoenix, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com. Dr. Holy can analyze your skin type and recommend a winter skin care routine just for you.