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How to take care of dry winter skin

Family health: After months of cold winter weather, your whole family can start to experience dry, itchy skin. Read on for a head-to-toe guide to getting some relief

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Originally published in Today's Parent March 2012

Dry indoor air coupled with sub-zero temperatures outside can leave us all with more than just rosy cheeks. “In the wintertime it’s very common for kids and adults to experience dry skin,” says Lori Shapiro, a dermatologist in Toronto. For some it’s a mild tightness and the odd rough patch, but for others severely chapped hands, cracked heels and itchy legs are common, she says. Soothe everyone’s parched complexions with these easy skin-saving strategies.

Face

To keep your complexion smooth and hydrated, start your skin-care routine with a gentle cleanser that won’t irritate delicate skin. Ones that say they’re for “sensitive” or “dry” skin are safe bets, but severely dry skin may also benefit from a rich cream cleanser. “If your skin is very chapped you can cut back to using a cleanser only at nighttime, when you’re removing makeup, and rinse with just tepid water in the morning,” says Winnipeg dermatologist Victoria Taraska.If you have flaking on your chin, cheeks or nose you may be tempted to use an exfoliator more often, but this can further irritate dry skin. Instead, slough off the rough spots just once or twice a week using a gentle polishing product. Tip: You can use it on your lips at the same time to buff away chapped spots.

Get more facial care tips (and see our favourite products!) on the next page>

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