"The most common symptoms people experience in the winter months are dryness and itching, especially those who suffer with eczema," says Dr. Leslie Baumann, Chief of the Division of Cosmetic Dermatology and Associate Professor at the University of Miami's Department of Dermatology.

However, says Baumann, "When it comes to skincare routines, there's no such thing as one size fits all."

Made up of several layers of cells, the epidermis, or top layer of the skin, and the oil glands produce lipids -- the fatty substances that keep the skin from losing moisture and make it soft and supple. But the problem, according to Baumann, is that each time you wash your skin you strip away these lipids, letting more moisture evaporate and drying the skin.

"Some people naturally have a stronger skin barrier that holds in water and keeps out irritants," Baumann explains. "This can be hereditary or due to the skin products you use." But unlike the humid summer months when the skin can replenish itself by soaking up moisture from the air, skin loses that opportunity to hydrate itself in winter, particularly in northern geographic regions. This, along with other moisture-robbing factors such as hot showers and baths, can contribute to parching and irritating the skin.

And because people spend more time indoors during the winter season, increased exposure to cigarette and cigar smoke can lead to free radical formation that can speed up the skin’s aging process.

Addressing these changes in humidity, temperature, and irritants begins with gentle cleansing. "The best cleansers are those that are detergent-free and don't bubble," says Baumann. "In fact, it's the detergents that make these cleansers bubble and dry out the skin. That's why my favorite brand for winter is Dove, because it replaces the fatty acids, ceramides and cholesterol that strengthen the skin barrier."

Beyond cleansing, however, "The most important winter skin care tip that dermatologists give patients is to moisturize properly," says Baumann, who recommends choosing products that contain such ingredients as petrolatum, mineral oil, lineoleic acid, ceramides, dimethicone or glycerine.

"Again because of the skin barrier, products with fatty acids, ceramides and cholesterol are best. I like Dove Essential Nutrients, as well as SBR Lipocream by Ferndale and TriCeram by Osmotics. I also like putting mineral oil in the bath," says Baumann, who recommends applying follow-up moisturizers within three minutes of stepping out of the shower or bath to help trap water in the upper layers of the skin.

Certain cosmetic ingredients such as antioxidants, retinoids that can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots, as well as sunscreen are all good choices to revive and protect winter weary skin. "If you still have trouble dealing with your skin,” adds Baumann, “the best advice is to visit a dermatologist who can work with you to devise a personal skincare regimen."

For more information contact the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) at 1-888-462-DERM or go to www.aad.org.