3 Skincare Habits You Should Break This Winter

Exfoliating Dry Skin

Because dry and scaly skin is irritated and inflamed, exfoliating will worsen the problem, says Jeffrey Dover, MD, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine. Instead, use a creamy facial cleanser and body wash to gently dissolve oil and dirt. If the rough patches are on your face, avoid lotions that contain heavy fragrances (which can irritate skin) and chemical exfoliants (like glycolic acid and retinol). Choose a face cream for sensitive skin with soothing ingredients like chamomile. For body, a lotion that contains humectants (like hyaluronic acid) and emollients (like shea butter) draws moisture to your skin and locks it in.

Next: The easy guide to flawless skin