Managing winter skin is all about using products that provide skin with much-needed moisture. Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist who practices in Alaska’s Arctic, knows a thing or two about bringing super-dry winter skin back to life.
“The weather in Alaska is kind of rough on the skin,” says Dr. Chacon. “By removing moisture from your skin, cold, dry air makes it harder to stay hydrated. This can irritate your skin and cause it to become chapped or irritated.”
Her go-to winter moisturizer to help her get through the Alaskan winters is the Obagi Medical Hydrate Facial Moisturizer ($50). That’s because it’s non-comedogenic and provides long-lasting hydration. “It also soothes flaky, dry skin, which is perfect for the Alaskan winter season,” says Dr. Chacon.
One of the main ingredients is Hydromanil, a compound that provides deep hydration. “Hydromanil is clinically proven to improve skin moisture,” says Dr. Chacon. It does that by capturing water and delivering it into the skin both immediately and over time, she explains. This results in two important reactions: less water loss from the skin’s surface and the continuous release of moisturizing and water-retaining substances.
The Obagi Medical Hydrate Facial Moisturizer also contains glycerin, a super hydrating ingredient that makes skin care products feel like butter. It is a humectant, meaning it attracts water and binds it to the skin, allowing the Hydromil to aid in water retention. The formula also contains a blend of shea, avocado and mango butters – all emollients that hydrate to leave skin soft and supple. Lastly, it has a blend of silicones that are great for creating an occlusive barrier on the skin, locking in all the goodness the cream offers.
Needless to say, if it can handle the Arctic of Alaska, it’s a worthy addition to winter skincare routines anywhere.
Learn more about winter skin care from a dermatologist:
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