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Colder temperatures combined with dry heat from our furnaces leaves our skin parched and many lotions and balms out there may do more harm than good. Protecting exposed body parts from the elements is the first step to retaining moisture then, it’s up to creams and lotions to replenish what we’ve lost.

Dermatologist, Dr. Ron Vender, recommends a water based moisturizer for the face and a thicker, oil based cream for drier skin on the body. The trick is avoiding products with ingredients that will work against hydration, that includes heavy fragrances and certain types of alcohol.

Chapped lips are another unfortunate side effect of winter. “We’re always talking and speaking and eating and licking them as well. Licking your lips is not a good idea to moisturize them, it can actually make it worse because it allows it to evaporate quickly.” Says Dr. Vender.

Pharmacist, Wassim Houneini suggests balms with a beeswax or oil base, he cautions that applying them too often can make your lips dependent.

We also tend to wash our hands frequently in cold weather to prevent the spread of germs, so choosing the right product is important.