What Do Dermatologists Recommend For Dry Skin

According to the dermatologists we spoke to, a big way to prevent dry skin is to make body lotion a staple in your daily routine year-round — not just in the fall and winter. But before we get into what lotions are best, there are some other best practices they told us that can help minimise scaly flare-ups. Shari Marchbein,are to avoid using stripping soaps and to take showers that last "no longer than five minutes, with warm water only." Cosmetic dermatologistDr.

Shereene Idrissagrees, saying that many people tend to overdo their body-care routines, thinking that extra cleansing will somehow benefit them in the long run. Below, our eight experts share their favourite body lotions for all types of dry skin, including ones suited for soothing eczema and keratosis pilaris, and even a clean option for the sustainability conscious. Dry and dehydrated skin often feels tight, especially right after cleansing.

With dry skin, you might notice itchiness, flaking, and rough patches, and your skin may be more sensitive to certain exfoliating acids or acne treatments. Look for products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which help restore the skin's protective barrier. If you're going to splurge on one item in your routine, consider a rich moisturizer that'll make even the driest skin feel dewy. Read on for some of our favorite dermatologist-approved products for boosting moisture and managing dryness.

Two out of seven dermatologists recommend this drugstore favourite for treating dry skin. "It has a high lipid content, which really helps repair dry, cracked skin," says Dr. Susan Binder, who notes that this is one of her preferred moisturisers. Binder suggests patients look for a cream, which has a higher lipid content than lotions.

Nazarian likes CeraVe because it's a "barrier-repair cream" and contains ceramides. "Dry skin requires both humectants and emollients that draw in moisture and lock in moisture, respectively," she says. "The price point on this line of moisturisers makes it a no-brainer," says Linker. She recommends transitioning to Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion in the summer because it's much lighter than the cream for those months when your sebum levels (your skin's natural lubrication) have balanced out.

"If your skin is dry, find an oil-based cream or lotion," says Dr. Sandra Kopp from Schweiger Dermatology Group in Whiting, New Jersey. In 2005, CeraVe's dermatologists developed a line of skin care products enriched with a blend of three essential ceramides to help restore the skin's natural barrier. Additionally, we are committed to the continued development of safe, effective skincare products informed by expertise of dermatologists. When shopping for body lotions, you'll want to look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, glycerin, shea butter, and ceramides, which are all recommended by dermatologists for hydrating dry skin.

And if you're wondering what the difference is between lotions and creams, know that it's all about the consistency. To soothe the delicate eye area, moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Depending on the severity of the dry skin, you may need to apply a gentle eye cream during the day too. To avoid pulling on the skin and irritating the eye area, dab the cream gently- don't rub. Some people swear by petroleum based products such as Vaseline or an ointment such as Aquaphor which create a thick layer, and lock in moisture. Otherwise look for a product that is designed for sensitive skin and is labeled as hypo-allergenic.

What do dermatologists recommend for dry skin Before applying moisturizer, do a patch test to rule out any sensitivity to the product. Perhaps one of the most important and commonly overlooked steps in the dry skin game is changing to a seriously hydrating moisturizer. "Look for creams, rather than lotions, that are made with ceramides and hyaluronic acid," Marchbein says.

Ceramides aid in the prevention of the skin's barrier, which is "easily broken down during the winter." For patients with severely chapped faces, pack on a hefty amount of product, she says, morning and night. Dr. Weitz and Dr. Serota are just two many derms who have recommended this particular cream for dry, winterized complexions. Dr. Serota says its one of his favorite gentle moisturizers that provide hydration without irritating the skin. Dry-skin types often need more attention in the moisturising department to avoid flaking and painfully tight, sandpapery skin. But not every moisturiser will work for severely dehydrated skin, especially in the colder months. Noelani Gonzalez, the director of cosmetic dermatology at Mount Sinai West, says people with dry skin, especially eczema sufferers, have to be very mindful of the moisturisers they use.

Generally speaking, "goopy and greasy creams and ointments are your best friend if you have dry skin, because they are oil based, have a thicker consistency, and provide more hydration than lotions," she says. "My skin-care routine starts in the shower with a moisturizing body wash," Dr. Nussbaum tells Allure. This gel-cream moisturizer for dry skin is formulated with three different forms of hyaluronic acid to moisturize and nourish and revive the skin's appearance deeply. Micro hyaluronic acid plumps the skin, cross-linked hyaluronic acid delivers continuous hydration to reduce the appearance of fine lines, and barrier HA helps prevent vital moisture loss. Heal and prevent dry skin with my dermatologist's treatment tips developed from over 30 years of dermatology practice.

It is important to treat dry skin by using a skin care routine that does not damage your skin's barrier and that also helps to strengthen it. If you've got dry skin, you'll want to use a moisturizer that willreally help to seal hydration beneath the surface and prevent it from evaporating into the environment (the phenomenon is known as "transepidermal water loss"). Because of this, Dr. Weitz recommends opting for products that have cream or ointment formulations.

While many dermatologists already recommend applying body lotions immediately after bathing, this Jergens moisturizer was specifically designed to be used on wet skin. It contains shea butter and hyaluronic acid (two expert-approved ingredients) that start hydrating skin as soon as you hop out of the shower. "I'm one of those people that always buys lotion and says that I'll put it on after the shower, but somehow always end up forgetting," wrote one shopper. "Having this stuff right in the shower with me and not needing to dry off before using it makes it so easy to incorporate into my routine." This drugstore body lotion from Aveeno uses a combination of super hydrating glycerin and oatmeal, which soothes irritated skin.

"Glycerin works to moisturize the skin by drawing water from the air into the skin's outer layer. It generates a protective layer that helps prevent moisture loss," explains Dr. Jaliman. It's non-greasy and fragrance-free, making it a great gentle, everyday lotion for dry skin. You can also purchase a budget-friendly bundlethat comes with the lotion and a moisturizing body wash. We shouldn't have to remind you that a full-spectrum sunscreen is a year-round essential for all skin types to prevent burning and long-term sun damage .

But for dry skin, dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum recommends this Coola lotion that combines sun protection with hydration. "It has a lot of antioxidants" — including aloe juice, grape-seed oil, and other plant-based moisturizers — "so it helps the skin repair itself," she says. A face mask can offer a concentrated boost of hydration to your skin (plus, they work perfectly for a self-care sesh). "The key ingredients to look for are those that will draw in and bind water to the skin, like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin C, glycerin, and almond oil," she tells Bustle. When you're suffering from this problem, your biggest concern is not seal moisture in with an emollient face cream, but to first add as much moisture to your dehydrated cells as possible. Then, it's about locking in the moisture so that it stays in your skin cells longer.

People with dry skin often need to use a good face moisturizer at least twice a day to keep skin supple. If you have dry skin on face or arms, choose an oil-based face moisturizer that is thick and heavy. This will create a thick layer of moisture and other anti aging skin care ingredients to nourish the skin on your face continuously throughout the day. It's pretty easy to remember to apply your daily facial moisturizer each morning, especially if it's got built-in 'block that will help shield your skin from harmful UV rays. However, it's definitely safe to say that we often forget to give the skin on our body the same attention and care as our face.

While that deeply moisturizing body wash can definitely keep your skin feeling smooth with each wash, it may not be enough to stand tall against those rough spots and dry patches. With that in mind, we tapped the skin-care pros to break down the best body lotions of all time. In cases of severely dry skin not related to an underlying medical condition, it's common for dermatologists to only recommend the best moisturizing cream for very dry skin. There are thousands of body and facial moisturizers available today, ranging from inexpensive drugstore brands to high-end products. Retinol is a common skincare ingredient found in serums, eye creams, and moisturizers and is used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. However, dermatologist Dr. Kenneth Mark previously told Insider retinol can also be drying for people with sensitive skin, especially during the winter.

Dr. Harth says dimethicone is one of best moisturizing ingredients for acne-prone skin. "It's a man-made compound known to reduce water loss without leaving a greasy feel or clogging pores," he says. First Aid Beauty's Ultra Repair Cream features the ingredient, along with ahydrating ceramides, soothing colloidal oatmeal, and rich shea butter. Free of fragrances and alcohol, it's great for those with sensitive skin—even those who suffer from eczema or extremely itchy skin can use it. Every night before bed, Marchbein recommends sticking to a routine that will ensure healthy skin come morning.

After your face serum and moisturizer, apply a gentle eye cream to the under eyes and lids, like Kiehl's avocado treatment. "The product will seal in the cream and prevent against redness and eczema," both of which are common during this time of year. If you have a little bit more in your budget for skin care products, Chiu recommended Skinbetter's Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment for dry skin repair. " has urea and provides deep moisture without the heaviness," she explained. According to the brand, it's also formulated with hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin and ceramides and squalane to lock in moisture.

Has everything you need to resist dry facial skin including the right sunscreen and green tea antioxidants to fight skin redness, irritation and to load skin with the right health promoting antioxidants. This soothing routine is perfect for even the most sensitive skin. It also integrates well with any of your favorite facial skin care products such as makeup, acne care products, wrinkle treating products etc.

You can also talk to your dermatologist about adjusting your at-home skin care routine. They will likely recommend that you remove any products that contain fragrance or other irritating ingredients. Topical treatments, like retinol and serums, can be beneficial for anyone with dehydrated skin.

Remember, it's important to talk to your dermatologist about choosing the right formulas for your skin needs. Not only are our products developed with dermatologists, but CeraVe is the #1 dermatologist recommended skincare brand1. Containing three essential ceramides to help restore the skin's natural barrier with continuous release technology for all day hydration, CeraVe offers effective, dermatologic skin care products for all skin types. CeraVe has been widely endorsed worldwide by skincare organizations, including being awarded more Seal of AcceptanceTM awards from the National Eczema Association than any other brand.

While the heat from an evening shower may feel phenomenal on a chilly day, Marchbein advises to limit rinse time to five minutes or less and to use warm—not hot—water, which only adds to surface dehydration. And instead of irritating soap bars or harsh body washes, pick up a creamy cleanser, like Dove's gentle formula. "Within 60 seconds of ," she says, apply a thick body moisturizer. "Look for something with mineral oil, lanolin, or ceramides," she explains, to help skin hold on to moisture throughout the night. Dr. Jaliman loves that this St. Ives hand and body lotionis formulated with "all-natural ingredients" and "no harmful chemicals," so it's ideal for anyone looking for a non-toxic option. "Vitamin E helps to reduce wrinkles and keep the skin looking youthful, avocado soothes dry skin," she says.

The cocoa butter and vitamin E in this affordable Nivea creammake it a dermatologist-favorite for lasting hydrating on very dry skin. You can use the cream all over your body, but the thick consistency makes it especially great for slathering on cracked hands and feet. If your dry skin is super itchy and eczema-prone, try this soothing cream from La Roche-Posay, which is meant to provide both instant relief and long-term hydration. It comes recommended by Kellie Reed, MD, a Texas-based dermatologist who appreciates that it "has colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, and niacinamide" to improve the skin's texture. Its ingredients are gentle enough for sensitive skin yet hydrating enough to get rid of rough, dry patches, according to reviewers. Plus, it's accepted by the National Eczema Association to treat the condition.

If you don't like the thought of a thick cream on your super-dry skin, Palep recommends this, which is thinner than a lot of other formulas for extreme dryness but promises to lock in moisture for up to 48 hours. (She's not the only derm who likes it; others previously told us this is a super-hydrating product for dry skin.) "I've seen it wipe out alligator skin, which is hard to do," Palep says. MacGregor agrees, but cautions that because this formula contains lactic acid , it should really be used be used to prevent extremely dry skin from forming, rather than to treat cracks or splits that have already occurred. "It has mild peeling agents to smooth rough follicles," she explains regarding why it's better for preventative use.

Choose something that's easy to apply and leaves no visible residue. If you are acne-prone, avoid products on your face that contain petroleum jelly, cocoa butter or coconut oil. If you skin is very oily, try using a sunscreen instead of a moisturizer.

If you have mature skin, you might prevent scaly, flaky skin by using products that contain antioxidants or alpha hydroxy acid. Moisturizers often form the basis for wrinkle creams, with added retinoids, antioxidants, peptides and other ingredients. Retinol is another all-star ingredient that deserves a place in your routine. A form of vitamin A, it's considered the gold standard for treating wrinkles and acne by speeding up skin-cell turnover and stimulating the production of collagen. Some retinol creams can be irritating, though, so you'll have to be careful in choosing the right one.

Dermatologist Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand, owner of Dallas-based practice Houshmand Dermatology, recommends this Avène cream that also contains hydrating thermal spring water. "It is a pro-elastin peptide that helps with fine lines to firm and has vitamin E, which helps with free-radical damage and protects against damaging sun rays," she says. There are few skin-care ingredients that do quite as much as vitamin C.

It can reduce inflammation, fight free-radical damage, brighten skin, diminish fine lines and wrinkles, and minimize the appearance of discoloration and dark spots, according to dermatologists we've interviewed. Here's the thing, when it comes to skin moisture, your skin does not provide an immediate response to anything that you may be doing wrong in your skin care regimen. Once your skin is moisturized, it can stay looking healthy until the next wash Therefore, many people look in the mirror every morning, see that their skin looks fine and put off using a moisturizing cream until another day. Then, when dry skin on face and arms seems to appear almost out of nowhere, and they remember that, yes, indeed everyone does need to moisturize, and proceed to slather a heavy layer of face cream to repair dry skin. Look for products that are fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin. And remember, the best moisturizers contain at least 2-3 hydrating components.

But it has to be the right moisturizer to actually heal dry skin. To find the best skincare, the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab rounds up the best and newest products on the market to see which ones are actually worth your money. We use a Corneometer device to gauge moisturization capabilities, and we also send moisturizers out to a panel of consumer testers to get feedback on absorption, texture, and scent. We parsed through more than 134 body lotions, distributed products to 120 testers, and collected over 5,000 hydration data points. For night creams, we tallied more than 11,200 data points from 240+ testers, and when testing day creams, we evaluated 70 products and asked 176 testers more than 2,000 questions to find the best options.

It's a common misconception that acne-prone skin doesn't need moisturizer. In fact, skipping this final step in your routine can actually make breakoutsworse. Depriving your skin of moisture will cause your oil glands to kick into high gear to try and combat the dryness, leading to an overproduction of sebum and the potential for even more clogged pores. "Look for ingredients that are non-comedogenic, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory," says Dr. Weitz.