Dermatologists Share Their Favorite Dry Skin Remedies

And we're talking right after. Gohara says it's essential to apply some kind of moisturizer within three minutes after getting out of the shower. The goal is to trap the water that's already in your skin before it can evaporate, adds Chicago dermatologist Jordan Carqueville, MD. To that point, layering your hydration is also a good move.

Hooper suggests starting with coconut or jojoba oil, then using a thicker cream or balm on top of that. Zeichner uses Aveeno Cracked Skin Relief Cica Balm, $12.99: "It's a cross between a cream and an ointment, and can repair even ultra dry and cracked skin without leaving it feeling sticky." If you want to use just one product, make it a moisturizer that contains a humectant, which draws water to the skin, and a lipid, which seals in the moisture, says Carqueville. Her pick: Avene XeraCalm A.D Lipid Replenishing Cream, $33.