This colder than usual weather is seriously drying out my skin. It feels tight and dry, especially in my forehead area that is usually oily. Are you in the same boat this winter? Well, it’s time to revamp your skincare routine for winter.

For starters do you know what kind of skin you have:

• Dry skin is flaky, scaly, or rough.
• Oily skin is shiny, greasy, and may have large pores.
• Combination skin is dry in some spots and oily in others.
• Sensitive skin may sting or itch after you use some products.
• Normal skin is balanced, clear, and not sensitive.( I don’t think many fall into this boat)

I think combination skin is probably the most common type of skin. I would like to share a few tips that are helping me get through this brutal winter:

• Cleansing

Don’t just grab whatever soap to wash your face. Use a gentle cleanser or soap to wash. In the winter months opt for something more moisturizing. I recommend Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Cleanser. It’s great at making your skin look luminous in the winter.If you wear makeup try using wipes to remove makeup prior to cleansing, remember using the wipes is not enough you need to cleanse afterward. I recommend Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes. They are gentle yet powerful at removing makeup.

• Exfoliation

Dry skin buildup on the surface of the skin can prevent moisturizers and other products from penetrating. By exfoliating away the dead skin on the surface, it allows your moisturizer to absorb better. I recommend St. Ives Exfoliate & Nourish Facial Oil Scrub. It does a great job of keeping skin moisturized while exfoliating away the flaky dead skin.

•  Moisturizing

You may have found a moisturizer that works just fine in warmer months but as weather conditions change, so, too, should your skin care routine. I recommend Garnier SkinActive Gel Face Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid. The moisturizer doesn’t feel heavy and great a nice protective barrier on your skin.

As a general rule of thumb try to avoid products with alcohol or fragrance, they can dry out your skin more. Plus avoid hot water your face instead opt for warm water and rinse with cool water whenever possible.

Stay moisturized!