I have the driest skin, especially in these dry Canadian winters. It is definitely a problem – trying to put on any concealer when you have flakes covering your nose is a battle. And it is a constant balancing act trying to find products that hydrate but still help with other skin issues: acne, anti-aging, sun protection, etc. Problem is, dry skin tends to wrinkle faster than oily, so that is a concern!! I know I am not the only one who suffers with this, so I thought I would touch on a new routine that seems to be helping with combating dry winter skin. 
Cleansing: For me, a lot of products, including any cleansers, in the morning seem to aggravate my skin. So I typically just rinse my face in the morning and do a better cleanse in the evening. I picked up two things to help in this step – a soft facial cleansing sponge to gently swipe away any flakes while washing my face and facial loofah pads to use once a week to get a better, deeper exfoliation. So far this step has really helped clear away those flakes! 
Cleansing continued: For the body, I discovered how much I love this coconut milk mango soap from Anthropologie. Not only does it smell absolutely heavenly, but as you may already know, coconut oil/milk is a great skin softener and helps do away with dry wintery skin. After the shower, I slather a bit of coconut body lotion on the problem areas and I’m good to go! Just an FYI, it is perfumed so if you have sensitive skin this soap may not be the greatest option.
Moisturize: I have tried SO MANY moisturizers. Lately I swapped to a new option – Clinique Superdefense for very dry skin. So far I love it because it is lightweight but really moisturizing. And it protects my skin from the sun, which is important even in the winter. As I approach my 30’s, I am definitely more aware of the fine lines and wrinkles that have started to show so I am extra cautious! A few times a week I also use an Advanced Anti-aging oil to repair the skin. Try this one.
Part two: I have also discovered Origins Drink up 10 minute hydrating mask. I use this at least once a week and it really does “quench skin’s thirst.” It’s also great for problem spots – I put a bit on while I am doing my hair and wipe off before putting on my morning makeup. 
Treatment: If you’ve never tried a facial peel, start with Dr. Dennis Gross’ alpha beta peel. Janna turned me on to these bad boys. There is an option for more sensitive skin but I typically get the extra strength formula. Yes it is more so for anti-aging but after I do the two step treatment I always feel like my skin has gone through a mini exfoliation. I grab these beauties in the mini aisle at Sephora. But word of warning…don’t accidentally grab the Glow ones…the self tanner made my skin orange!! ahah it was hilarious but not fun…Also, I only do these treatments when I typically have an upcoming event or really, really need it (just to save on cost..)
So there you have it?? What do you think? What are your steps to combating dry winter skin? I would love to hear!
Also, check out this article from The Everygirl about how to combat dry scalp…so good!
xo