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Best Skin Care Products for the Cold Winter Months

January 2023


Recommendations from Optima Dermatology’s Expert Providers

Many people suffer from dry or chapped skin in the cold winter months, and it can be hard to know which skin care products to use for the best skin protection and treatment.

Proper skin care is important all year round, but in the winter, the skin is exposed to cold, dry air and the elements, which can lead to dry, rough, and even red or raw skin that needs a little extra attention. Hot showers or blasting the heat in your car can also wreak havoc on your skin, stripping it of its natural protective oils and drying it out. We asked our expert dermatologists and providers to weigh in on the skin care products they love, trust, and tell their patients to use, so you can get dermatologist-recommended products and be confident in your winter skin care routine.


Skin Care Product Recommendation from Board Certified Physician Assistant Holly Morris, MSHS, PA-C

Intellishade Clear by Revision

Intellishare Clear has antiaging and sunscreen benefits all in one, and provides the important protection of a sunscreen with the feel of a medical-grade moisturizer! It offers hyaluronic acid to moisturize the skin, and a broad-spectrum SPF 50 to keep your skin protected on any sunny winter day.

Skin Care Product Recommendations from Medical Aesthetics Provider Chelsea McCraine, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC

ZO’s Hydrating Cleanser

This soothing cleanser provides a dual-action formulation that cleanses the skin while hydrating it to minimize dryness and soothe irritation in sensitized skin. This cleanser includes multiple humectants (sodium hyaluronate, panthenol, glycerin, sodium PCA and urea) to retain and replenish hydration to support the skin barrier. It is the optimal cleanser for those with dry, sensitive skin types and is a winter skin care essential!

ZO’s Exfoliating Polish

Exfoliation is a skin care essential year-round but it is of utmost importance during the winter months due to the cold air outside and dry indoor heating. During the winter, skin cells dehydrate and die out faster, which causes the skin to appear dull, uneven, and dry. ZO’s exfoliating polish provides gentle exfoliation via ultra-fine magnesium oxide crystals to buff away dead skin cells and reveal a softer, more even tone. Exfoliating is recommended 2-3 times/week to help replenish the skin, decongest pores, and improve the effectiveness of other products including moisturizers.

ZO’s Daily Power Defense

Daily Power Defense is a light-weight serum that supports the skin’s health and function. It is often touted as a multivitamin for the skin due to its powerful antioxidant-rich properties. Daily Power Defense helps maintain hydration in the skin by protecting the skin’s barrier against environmental factors like free radicals. This product also boosts collagen and hyaluronic acid production to improve fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness.

Skin Care Product Recommendations from Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Amy Polster

CeraVe Lotion

CeraVe lotion is a lightweight, oil-free daily lotion that provides exceptional moisturization for healing dry skin on any part of the body. It contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which help restore and maintain the skin’s protective barrier. It uniquely combines 3 essential ceramides that slow-release over time, providing 24-hour hydration so your skin feels smooth and comfortable all day long.

CeraVe Healing Ointment

CeraVe healing ointment is a specially-designed product to heal chafed and severely dry, irritated skin, especially on the hands and feet. Formulated with petrolatum, hyaluronic acid, and three essential ceramides, it provides extra hydration and restores the skin’s protective barrier. It is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and suitable for all skin types. It is also free from fragrance, dyes, and lanolin, minimizing the risk of irritation.

Skin care is important all year round, especially during harsh winters! Keep your skin hydrated, protected, and happy all winter long with skin care products recommended by expert Optima dermatologists.


Optima Dermatology & Medical Aesthetics is accepting new patients across all locations! Schedule a consultation today with one of our expert Medical Aesthetic Providers to come up with a customized skin care plan.