Finding Relief for My Dry, Flaky Winter Skin

A recent cold front has swept through the U.S. As the snow and rain arrive, they bring problems for my skin. The epidermis, the outermost layer, becomes dry, cracked, and irritated. If like me you experience issues with your skin in the winter months, I’d like to share my go-to products that help to soothe and restore my skin.

No matter the season, my sensitive skin reacts to the chemicals in commercial beauty products. Without warning, my dry, acne-prone facial skin can develop sensitivities to ingredients such as fragrances and salicylic acid, and peel-off masks.

Skin saviors. (Photo by Leah Leilani)

I recently purchased Mario Badescu’s Aloe Moisturizer with SPF 15. Although this product contains soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, my skin broke out. I suspect the culprit was the SPF. For the following days, I cut most products and reverted to gentle skin care to avoid further irritation.

Since October, the dry air here in Southern California has taken a toll on my skin. Dry, flaky patches dot my face, elbows, cuticles, and legs. It’s not attractive, let me tell you. So, I tried Cetaphil Pro Restoraderm Eczema Soothing Moisturizer, and it’s been a lifesaver for my skin. Some skin care experts recommend Cetaphil. This dermatologist uses the brand’s body wash in her skin care routine.

My skin was instantly restored to its usual smoothness thanks to the ceramides in this moisturizer. The fragrance-free and noncomedogenic formula contains oatmeal, which apparently has anti-inflammatory properties.

Several years ago, I consulted a dermatologist about my troublesome acne. After sharing my skin care routine, she recommended that I stop using harsh acne products and simply use a soap bar. These days I use Aveeno’s moisturizing bar, which removes even water-resistant makeup. Though this soap is gentle on my skin, I apply a lotion afterward, especially in the winter months.

Last Christmas, I was gifted a set of travel-size skin care products from Belif. The Korean skin care brand’s The True Cream Aqua Bomb has a gel-like consistency. Its list of ingredients includes oat, ceramides, and shea butter, which soften the skin and are suitable for sensitive types. While some ingredients such as fragrances can irritate my skin as well as trigger my asthma, I haven’t had any adverse effects with this product.

If you struggle with your skin during the cold winter months or suffer from year-round sensitivity, I suggest sticking to the basics with your skin care. Do your research and take note of the ingredients that trigger your sensitivity.

I hope that you find relief for your skin this winter and that it returns to its soft and hydrated state before spring.

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