Everyone finds that the harsh weather of winter takes a toll on their skin, but some of us suffer more than others. I have been cursed with the skin of a reptile, so in the wintertime I have to pay extra special attention to my skin so that it doesnÔÇÖt flake off and leave a path in my wake.

If you too are having a hard time combating the harsh effects of winter cold and wind, here are some things you can do to keep your skin looking moist and nourished:

1. Exfoliate regularly. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, regular exfoliation makes a HUGE difference in the appearance of my skin. I’m living proof that it works. You may not even need to switch to a richer moisturizer in the wintertime if you are exfoliating, because when you┬áremove the dry skin cells, your face cream penetrates and hydrates the new cells rather than the dead, dry cells. Neato!

2. Change your skincare routine. Yes, I know I just said you may not need to change to a richer moisturizer, but then again, when the weather turns on us, you might want to swap out your summer skin care products for some that are richer and creamier. I prefer a heavier moisturizer in the wintertime, and I also like to change up my makeup remover from a refreshing foaming face wash in the summer to a creamier makeup remover in the wintertime. You may have to experiment to figure out what works best for your skin.

3. Shower less often. If the skin on your body gets itchy and dry during the wintertime, try showering less often. I hear your protest, but think about it. All that hot water really dries out your skin. Unless you exercise every day or work at a physically demanding job, you really do not need to shower every day. I only shower every other day, and it helps a lot. On the days that I don’t shower, I wash my hair in the sink. If you’re going to be stubborn and insist on showering every day, see #4.

4. Shower or bathe in warm water, not hot water. As great as that hot water feels pouring over your back, try to turn it down to a more tepid temperature. The hotter the water, the more drying it is to your skin.

5. Apply lotion while your skin is still damp from the bath or shower. When your skin is dry, it’s not because it lacks oil, but because it doesn’t retain water. So don’t towel off completely upon exiting the shower stall. Pat dry and then while your skin is still damp, apply a good quality lotion to lock in the moisture.

What advice would you add? How do you keep your skin moisturized throughout the colder months?