Just like any other season of the year - winter has its fair share of skin care myths. For most, winter brings dry, dehydrated skin, even for those with typically oily complexions. But some of the information out there about how to care for winter skin is a little misguided. In fact, some myths you may believe as the truth could be making your dry skin worse! We turned to Dr. James Beckman, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Founder, and CEO of Theraderm Clinical Skin Care, to help us debunk the top 7 winter skin myths.

“I don’t need moisturizer in winter – I have oily skin.”
Everyone needs moisturizer. Especially in winter months, when heating systems and cold winds result in a dry climate – indoors and out. Reach for an oil-free product or something more intense to keep your complexion protected against wintry elements like super dry air. Peptide Hydrator will do the trick!

“Who needs SPF on overcast winter days?”
SPF protects against harmful rays all year long. The sun is actually even closer to the earth in the winter months, despite what your heating bill says, and clouds do little to filter out its rays. You still SPF, even on cold, dark days. Platinum Protection Facial Sunscreen is a light weight cream that is oil-free making it perfect to wear with or without makeup.

“Winter isn’t as harsh on my skin as summer.”
Winter does a number on your skin in a way that summer can’t. Low humidity combined with blistering winds can lead to tight, uncomfortably dry skin today – and new wrinkles tomorrow. A nightly peptide cream such as Eternox Peptide Creme can offset winter’s aging effects.

“Only women worry about skin care.”
Actually, men have something to think about that women don’t: facial shaving irritation, which can worsen with cold. Men can help prevent facial sensitivity before it starts with a pre-shave cleansing and exfoliation ritual. A moisturizing shaving gel and fragrance-free face wash and aftershave lotion help avoid potential irritants. Theraderm Cleansing Wash is an excellent choice for shaving! Follow up with Fruit Acid Exfoliant to prevent those annoying red bumps.

“I only need sunscreen at the beach.”
You also need it when you’re skiing the slopes.Exposure to UV rays is more intense at higher elevations; put a little reflective snow and ice into the mix and you’ve got some seriously harsh conditions. Keep active through the winter – exercise is good for your skin. But instead of the light sunscreen sprays you reach for in summer, try a moisturizing SPF cream that can protect against winter weather. Tinted Hydrating Complex provides protection from the sun, hydration AND contains an anti-aging peptide! Can you say perfection?

“I use a facial moisturizer, so I’m all set.”
Not quite! Don’t neglect your lips, which can chap in dry, blustery weather. Anti-Aging Lip Complex not only keeps your lips hydrated, it also plumps them and reduces fine lines and wrinkles! Remember your hands, too – or cracked skin might remind you later. Extreme Dry Skin Therapy is a great way to protect your hands. With 20% superfine lanolin, it heals and soothes and won’t wash away when washing your hands.

“Eczema is just an allergic reaction.”
While it is true that Eczema is an allergic reaction …winter weather is often a trigger — especially cold, windy, dry weather. From your moisturizer in the morning to your bath at night, protecting your skin before it flares is the name of the eczema game. We highly recommend Body Restoration Creme to combat the symptoms of this skin condition.

We hope this helps you have healthy skin all winter long!