The Cleansers Saving Our Dry Skin This Winter (2024)

Are we the only ones who have started waking up with a dry nose? That can only mean one thing: the seasons are finally changing for real and dry fall and winter air has arrived. If you’re among those of us with dry skin, this can spell a major problem. From dry patches to cracked skin, this season can be especially harsh without some serious prep. We love a good face mask and moisturizer, but every step needs to be nourishing and non-stripping—including your cleanser! Here are the cleansers for dry skin that are saving us this season.

Featured Experts

• Joel Schlessinger, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Omaha, NE
• Lisa Honet, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Bloomfield Hills, MI

Prepping for Winter With Dry Skin

Omaha, NE dermatologistJoel Schlessinger, MD,says, “Dry skin is a skin type and something that can’t necessarily be changed, but with the right products and lifestyle choices, it can be treated and even improved. People with dry skin types naturally produce less sebum and lipids, which are two components necessary for helping skin retain essential moisture. Dry skin can also be genetic.”

When you have dry skin, it’s important to prioritize both hydration and moisture. Hydrating ingredients attract and hold on to water content, while moisturizers seal water in and protect the exterior of our skin. With dryer and colder air coming, it’s important to look for the ingredients that hold moisture and protect the skin.

“Winterizing skin care means using creamier bases, layering on non-comedogenic oils and seeking more emollient combinations ofceramides,hyaluronic acid, shea butter,glycerin and even petrolatum to help ward off winter dryness, irritation, flaking and itch and bring back the hydration, glow and luminosity of hydrated skin,” explains Bloomfield Hills, MI dermatologistLinda C. Honet, MD. That includes your cleanser!

Hyaluronic acid and ceramides are stellar ingredients to look for when searching for a cleanser for dry skin. Additionally, cleansing oils are an excellent option for dry skin, thanks to their non-stripping formulas designed to keep the skin barrier intact. Shop our favorite options ahead.

Our Favorite Cleansers for Dry Skin