Crack the code on preventing dry winter skin with these beauty tips

The winter weather—with its whipping winds and cold, dry days—is a well-known arch nemesis of our complexion, giving us the winter skin blues (and blotchy reds, too). But with a few changes to your skincare routine, you can defeat Old Man Winter and his dry skin spell. Here are some expert tips—and beloved products—that will help you put your best face forward this winter.

Pucker up with soft lips: After your remove your lipstick, use a wet, wrung-out washcloth to “buff” your lips, says skincare expert Jan Marini, president and CEO of Jan Marini Skin Research. Rub everything you use on your face over your lips, too—including moisturizers and retinol, Marini says. Complete the routine by using a sealant, something that is thick, to leave a barrier between your lips to keep the moisture from escaping while you’re catching zzz’s.

One of Marini’s moisturizer suggestions: Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour cream, $21, Macy’s.

Tip: Buy a big pack of ChapStick and stash one in each coat pocket so that you’ll never leave home without one.

Exfoliate: No matter your skin type, winter tends to have a dulling effect (which tends to make us look older). Extra moisturizer is a must in the winter, but it won’t necessarily address skin that seems sluggish, Marini says. The trick to getting vibrant, glowing skin that looks like you’ve been airbrushed? Exfoliating! “Even in winter months, exfoliation is a must for keeping facial skin looking polished and luminous with that perfect ‘airbrushed’ looks,” she says.

Our pick: Bobbi Brown Buffing Grains for Face, $43, Sephora.

Get a sunkissed glow: Miss your summer-time tan already? We all know that tanning beds are a no-no for our skin, plus a dark tan just doesn’t go with sweater weather. Instead, Marini, suggests getting a subtle, sun-kissed glow by putting a dollop of your favorite moisturizer in your hand, adding a pea-size or dime-size amount of sunless tanner and mixing them together. Apply the mixture to your face just like you would a moisturizer. It’s mistake-proof (read: You won’t be looking all Jersey Shore). Also, don’t forget the sunscreen! You actually need it year-round. Make sure to apply it 30 minutes before you leave the house (just like you would in warm months). The sun’s reflection on the snow is no joke!

Our pick: Bare Minerals Faux Tan Face, $24, Sephora.

Consider a humidifier: Whether you’ve got the heat cranked up at work or home, or keep toasty by a space heater during the day, you’re getting a high dose of dry air. Import some moisture with a humidifier like the Crane Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier, starting at $44.99, Target.