Chapter 1 of 4
Moisturizing basics
Introduction and Core Moisturizing Strategy
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Educational content from recorded physician discussions — not medical advice. Talk to your (or your child's) care team about your situation.
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What the experts said
Effective moisturizers contain hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and a glycerin or petroleum base to lock in moisture.
Lukewarm showers are better than warm showers for preventing skin dryness, and this applies to hand washing as well.
Moisturizer should be applied as the first layer to damp skin immediately after bathing to lock in moisture before dry air removes it.
Soaps with fewer harsh chemicals, fragrances, and perfumes are better for preventing skin dryness.
Lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid, has the ability to slough away dead skin cells.
Gentle exfoliation during winter removes dead cells on top so moisturizers can penetrate better.
Ceramide is a great barrier cream ingredient for skin protection.
HVAC service providers tend to keep house humidifier settings low to prevent fungal growth.
In winter, indoor air is too dry and humidification should be increased.
Using a bedside humidifier for eight hours provides moisture in the air between 30 and 60 percent.
Proper humidification (30-60%) prevents nosebleeds.
Cotton-based clothing protects skin from harsh winds.
Sunblock is an element that helps protect skin during winter.
UV radiation reflects off snow and reaches the skin, making sunblock SPF 30 necessary even in winter.
In cold environments, people experience water loss through the nose and mouth, making hydration important.
Aquaphor lip balm, which is petroleum-based, works well to prevent lips from getting chapped frequently.
Vaseline is effective for preventing chapped lips.
Low humidity and indoor heating during winter pull moisture from skin, leading to dry skin and cracked fingers.
Dead skin acts as a barrier preventing moisturizer absorption into the skin.
Children commonly get nosebleeds during winter months because the nose becomes cracked and dry.
Licking dry lips to moisturize them actually makes them drier.