What to do about winter dry, itchy skin?

My skin gets quite dry during the winter. Lately when I get out of shower, my face is not only very dry but red too (at night). I basically follow your skin care regimen. I was wondering what else I could do to add moisture. I do moisturize before using Renova, but will that cause the Renova to be less effective? And how often is ok to exfoliate when you have dry skin? Would using a gentle peel instead of a scrub be better? Please help! Thank you!

One thing to consider is that one or more of your products is irritating you.  I really think you should see a dermatologist for help and take all the products you’ve been using.  In the meantime, consider stopping all of your products except a very bland, gentle cleanser and moisturizer like Cetaphil Lotion, Cleanser and Cream, Cerave or the Free & Clear line which makes Vanicream.  Remember that if a product stings, burns or makes you redder when you put in on, don’t use it! See my article on Sensitive Skin for more information.

If you are off all your products for week or two and are better, you’ll have the answer.   Then the you and your doctor can do the detective work to figure out which product was causing the problem.     Hope this helps,  Dr. I

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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One of the best investments in your skin is your daily skincare. Why? Because you can prevent many problems with blotchy skin color, lack of glow, texture, some types of acne, and fine lines with good skincare products. You can also correct some of these problems with effective skincare products. Great skincare is often more expensive because quality ingredients are expensive. Some companies spend on research/development which benefits all of us and adds to the cost. Are they worth it? In general - yes! I have handpicked some of what I consider to be the best skin care products, and offer them for sale on SkinTour's shop. This is based on my team and I's testing and research at our clinic. Many of the products are in my own regimen. What could be better than using skin care products a dermatologist uses?!