Keeping your skin moist and healthy during the winter months can be a challenge. Lower humidity on those clear, cold (but beautiful) days combined with drier indoor air causes skin to lose moisture rapidly, leaving it dull-looking and dry. What to do? Here are 10 tips to assist you in keeping your skin moist this winter.

1. When cleansing, keep the temperature of the water cool or lukewarm.
2. Use a gentle cleanser that does NOT foam or make suds. Suds frequently contain detergents, which strip the skin of natural oils and are drying.
3. Moisturize immediately after cleansing, preferably while skin is still damp.
4. Choose a water-based moisturizer. Avoid those that contain petroleum-based products, which can dry skin.
5. Use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air.
6. DRINK lots of water. Skin needs hydration from the inside, too!
7. Moisture can’t be absorbed deeply if there’s a layer of dead cells to get through. Use a gentle exfoliating mask on your face and hands, then follow up with moisturizer.
8. Winter sun can be just as damaging as summer sun, so remember the sunscreen.
9. Don’t forget your knees and elbows! These areas have thinner skin and become dry more quickly than other body areas. Use a heavier, deep moisturizer at night.
10. Watch out for alcohol, which can cause dehydration. Have a glass of water between drinks.