With gusty winds and cooler temperatures making their way back into our lives, it’s time to take stock of our defense against dryness. Here are nine ideas to get you started.

1. Exfoliate at least one or two times per week

Exfoliation is a vital step in skin care regimens that is often over-looked. Shedding unwanted dead skin opens up the pores, making your moisturizer more effective and more fully absorbed into the skin.

2. Consider using a humidifier

Central heating depletes moisture from the air and has a drying effect on the skin. Using a humidifier will help put moisture back into the air -- and your skin will be happier too.

3. Increase your Vitamin C intake

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from the inside out, and plays a major role in collagen production. It also strengthens the immune system -- an important consideration during flu season. Naturel Collagen offers a unique, all-natural V itamin C supplement that contains bitter orange and germinating buckwheat in the formula. Many people swear by this supplement and say they can’t live without it during the fall and winter months.

4. Eat a balanced, healthy diet

A poor diet is not good for your skin at any time of the year, and the colder months are no exception. Bear in mind that sugar in particular can wreak havoc on the skin. Sugar destroys both collagen and elastin, leading to sagging skin and wrinkles.

5. Avoid prolonged, hot showers (or baths)

Although you may be tempted to turn up the water temperature during the long, cold months of winter -- keep in mind that you may be upsetting the delicate balance of the skin’s natural oils. Hot water dries out the skin and contributes to sensitivity and itchiness.

6. Moisturize…often!

The ultimate weapon against dry, irritated skin is to deeply nourish it with a moisturizer that will penetrate multiple layers of the skin. A good night cream during the dryer months also helps to amp-up moisturization and heal the skin while you sleep. You can start by applying one of our most potent collagen serums, such as Naturel Collagen Platinum or Native Collagen DNA. Pair Naturel Collagen Platinum with Atelomask for intense hydration and skin rejuvenation – best suited for mature skin.

If your skin craves extra nourishment and shows extra signs of skin damage (for example, too much sun exposure), our Blue Diamond Cream can be used both as a day and night cream. Its thick, silky texture is perfect to soothe and moisturize the skin during the colder season.

7. Stay hydrated

Hydration is equally as important in the winter months as it is in the summer. Drinking an adequate amount of cool or room temperature water each day will help keep your skin stay soft and counteract the effects of dry skin. Cold water may cool down your body too much when the mercury drops below freezing so try some hot water with lemon juice for a nice -- and warming -- alternative.

8. Protect the skin from the elements

Your skin can take a beating from rain, wind and snow in the colder months. Be sure to bundle up and protect your face with a scarf and keep hands covered with gloves or mittens. And don’t forget lip care! The thin, delicate skin on your lips requires special attention in winter, as the lips dry out faster than the skin on your face. Our Collagen Lip Care Set delivers all-natural relief, guaranteed to keep your “kissers” soft and smooth all winter long.

9. Check your cleanser

Many toners and astringents use harsh cleansing ingredients that contribute to dry skin. Be sure to use an extra gentle cleanser in the colder months, such as our Collagen Wash Gel.

Banish Dry Skin This Winter with These 9 Smart Skincare Tips