What are the common causes of dry, cracked skin in winter and which moisturizers do dermatologists recommend?
### Common Causes of Dry, Cracked Skin in Winter
1. **Cold Weather and Low Humidity**: Cold air and low humidity levels can lead to tiny cracks in the outer skin layer, causing loss of hydration and inflammation.
2. **Strong Winds**: Winds can strip the skin of oils needed to maintain a healthy skin barrier, leading to dryness and irritation.
3. **Indoor Heating**: Indoor heating systems often produce dry air, which can further dehydrate the skin.
4. **Hot Showers**: Long, hot showers can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.
5. **UV Rays**: Even in winter, UV rays can damage the skin, making it important to use products with SPF.
### Recommended Moisturizers
1. **Neutrogena Daily Sunscreen**: Contains avobenzone to break down UV rays and protect the skin.
2. **Aveeno Balm**: Contains colloidal oatmeal to soothe and hydrate the skin barrier.
3. **L'Occitane Shea Butter**: Effective emollient that softens and protects the skin.
4. **AmLactin Lotion**: Contains ammonium lactate to exfoliate dead skin layers and hydrate.
5. **Lubriderm Lotion**: Fragrance-free and contains glycerin to hydrate without leaving a greasy feeling.
6. **Clarins Rich Lotion**: Formulated with shea butter and botanical oils to protect and hydrate.
7. **Vaseline Spray Lotion**: Lightweight and dries quickly, with a dimethicone base to seal in moisture.