Dermatologists Share Their Favorite Dry Skin Remedies

"True soaps have an alkaline pH, which can disrupt the outer layer of the skin," Zeichner says. "Use gentle, hydrating, soap-free cleansers instead." His pick: Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash, $5.99. You also don't need to wash everywhere (stay with us here). "Only wash the areas where skin touches skin, like your armpits and groin. Skip your arms and legs unless they're physically dirty, since you don't want to wash away your skin's natural oils," says Rebecca Kazin, MD, FAAD & Associate Director, WIDLS in Chevy Chase, Maryland.