Michael Kors fall 2011, Imaxtree 

Unless you live on the West Coast, you know about seasons. And when seasons change, so must our skincare regimen. The weather and its elements affect our skin so much that if you reach for the same products all year long, you’re doing your skin a disservice. It’s something we’re trying to be better at, too. We recently chatted with top NYC-based dermatologist Dr. Anne Chapas about the most common winter skincare mistakes we make, and what we can do protect our skin during the most severe inclement weather. And below, check out our favorite go-to products we stock up on when Old Man Winter settles in. 

ELLEgirl: What are the definite Don’ts of skincare during the cold season every gal must know? 

Dr. Anne Chapas: Skipping moisturizer. Not wearing sunscreen because it’s not “summer.” Using gels that dry out instead of moisturizing lotions and creams. Using abrasive soaps. Taking long, hot showers. 

ELLEgirl: Does winter skincare differ from skin type to skin type? 

Dr. Chapas: Yes and no. Everyone’s skin is drier in the winter. However, if someone is oily to start with, she might be more normal in the winter months, whereas a person with normal skin type may be dry in the winter months. 

ELLEgirl: What are the top products every girl should be using on her skin? 

Dr. Chapas: Two things: a mild cleanser and a moisturizer with SPF 30 or higher, anti-oxidants, and Retinol. 

ELLEgirl: Is there a specific product that we shouldn’t spend our money on? Why? 

Dr. Chapas: Anything with fancy packaging. Save your money for things that have been scientifically proven to improve the health and appearance of the skin, not something that looks pretty on the shelf. 

ELLEgirl: Should our AM and PM skincare routines be different? If so, in what ways? 

Dr. Chapas: In the morning, use a moisturizer with sunscreen. At night, apply retinol/Retin A, since these are inactivated by sunlight. 

ELLEgirl: If a girl has 10 minutes in the morning to get ready, what skin regimen would you recommend? 

Dr. Chapas: Use a mild cleanser with an exfoliating brush, and cover up with a tinted moisturizer with sunscreen. 

ELLEgirl: Does keeping a humidifier in our bedrooms really make a huge difference? 

Dr. Chapas: Yes! Especially in the winter. 

ELLEgirl: What’s the best way to prevent and control breakouts during the winter season? 

Dr. Chapas: Always remove make-up—no exceptions! Use a water-based moisturizer after Retinol at night. 

ELLEgirl: How do you know for sure that a product’s not working/not best for your skin type? Dr. Chapas: If your skin is dry, red, or irritated, you need to make a change. Top Products for Winter Skincare 

Photo: Courtesy of H2O H2O Plus’ new Marine Calm cleanser, $18 

Photo: Courtesy of TargetDove Cream Oil Ultra Rich Body Wash, $8 

Photo: Courtesy of Sephora Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, $13

 

Photo: Courtesy of L'Occitane L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream, $26

 Photo: Courtesy of drugstore.com Curel Foot Therapy, $6 

Photo: Courtesy of drugstore.com Vaseline Intensive Care Vitalizing Gel Body Oil with Brazillian Nut and Almond Oils, $8 

Photo: Courtesy of drugstore.com Nivea Body Smooth Sensation Daily Lotion, $8

Photo: Courtesy of Walgreens Aquaphor Advanced Therapy, $6