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Whether it's the cold weather or just your natural skin type, figuring out how to treat dry patches on skin is useful in any routine. Dry patches can lead to pesky flakes and irritation—not to mention it prevents smooth makeup application—but sometimes, even our best moisturizers won't cut it.
According to board-certified dermatologist Debbie Palmer, DO, dry patches can occur for a number of reasons. “Certain medical conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema can cause them,” says Dr. Palmer.
Other things to consider are climate and even the medications you take. “Environmental factors can also play a role," she adds. “Some of the factors that could be responsible include cold weather, wind, dry weather with low humidity, long, hot showers, harsh soaps that strip the skin, topical rejuvenation products, sunburn, airline travel and dehydration. Also, stress and certain vitamin deficiencies and topical or oral prescription medications could be responsible.”
So, how can you prevent dry patches on skin?
Adjust your water temperature
Bad news: your long hot shower might be affecting your skin. Dr. Palmer recommends limiting baths or showers to five to ten minutes and to use warm water instead of hot water, which can be drying. To avoid irritation, she also recommends using gentle or fragrance-free products.
Your face and body care routine after can also have an affect on skin. “When drying off after a bath or shower it is best to pat your skin with a dry towel as rubbing your skin can irritate,” says Dr. Palmer. “After drying off, immediately apply your fragrance-free moisturizer."
Both Dr. Garshick and Dr. Shiraz recommend this sensitive skin-friendly option for simultaneously cleansing and hydrating skin. “This body wash uses prebiotic oat to help soothe the skin while also nourishing the skin and boosting the skin’s moisture,” says Dr. Garshick. “It offers a light scent for those who prefer a scented option, while still being gentle on the skin.”
- Pros: Suitable for sensitive skin, sold at drugstores
- Cons: Does not exfoliate
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Use a humidifier
An easy way to add instant moisture is putting a humidifier in your room. “You can boost home humidity by using a humidifier but remember to clean it regularly to prevent mold,” says Dr. Palmer.
Protect your hands
Your hands likely have the most contact with surfaces and the elements, making them especially vulnerable to dryness. Dr. Palmer recommends protecting them in all situations. “When performing tasks using chemicals, like those found in cleaning agents, or when gardening you can wear gloves,” she says. “Winter gloves can also be used to protect the skin from cold, dry air.”
Especially in the winter months, you'll want to invest in a good hand cream to soothe any dryness or cracks. “It's also important to prevent dry patches on the hands by applying moisturizer after each hand washing,” she says. “I advise patients to look for gentle, fragrance-free skin care products and to use creams instead of lotions as they can add more moisture to the skin.”
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How to treat dry patches on skin
Best ingredients for dry patches
There are a few ingredients that can help treat dry patches. “I advise patients to look for products that contain hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, glycerin, or dimethicone,” says Dr. Palmer. As always, seek out a dermatologist if your dryness does not improve.
Apply a moisturizing cream
“Two of my favorite products are Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream and Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream, which is accepted by the National Eczema Association," says Dr. Palmer. "I advise patients to treat the dry patches by applying the creams two to three times daily.”
Testing out a new moisturizer can sometimes feel, well, pretty scary for someone with sensitive skin. (Will the newfound moisture come along with a side of frustrating irritation?!) Luckily, this Avene favorite exists. The lightweight, fast-absorbing cream is formulated to provide long-lasting hydration and quickly soothes tight, red, and uncomfy skin, thanks to ingredients like glycerin, squalane, and a patented postbiotic called D-Sensinose. It has scored the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance and is also accepted by the National Rosacea Society.
What our tester says: Moorhouse says this formula is one of her all-time favorite skin care products and frequently lands in her Amazon cart. “I’ve turned to this cream time and time again. It’s easy to apply, sinks in quickly, and gives my skin a healthy, hydrated glow. My sensitive skin legitimately feels cared for (and, typically, a lot less red) after I apply it,” she says.
- Key Ingredients: D-Sensinose, glycerin, squalene
- Fragrance: No
- What we love: Soothes redness and the feeling of tightness while providing lightweight, fast-absorbing moisture.
- What to note: The tube can be hard to store once it begins to empty out.
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Sign UpAvene Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream
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Dry skin and irritation tend to go hand in hand, unfortunately. To soothe, hydrate, and support the skin barrier, this nourishing formula has colloidal oatmeal and beta glucan. It’s especially helpful during the cold months when it’s windy and cold outside but you’ve got the heat cranked up inside—the two extremes are sneaky saboteurs that can leave your skin feeling chapped and angry.
What our tester says: Moorhouse, whose skin veers dry and sensitive, says this formula is one of her go-tos. “I find its cushion-y, creamy texture to be so comforting, especially when my skin is a little bothered and parched.” She says the balm-like formula is on the thicker side (so a little goes a long way), but it still layers beautifully under sunscreen and makeup.
- Key Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, beta-glucan
- Fragrance: No
- What we love: Calms redness and moisturizes dry, very dry, and sensitive skin types.
- What to note: Has a creamy, balm-like texture, so it might not be the best fit for someone who prefers lightweight, gel formulas.
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Sign UpKiehl’s Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream
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