Now that we’re transitioning into warmer weather, it’s the perfect moment to take a deeper look at our skin and how the cold winter weather may have negatively affected it. Revamping your skin-care routine can be as simple as switching to gentler cleanser or adding weekly exfoliation. Dove Dermatologist Dr. Alicia Barba shares with us her top tips to ensure that your skin receives the best care this season and breaks down some common habits that may actually be hurting your skin vs. improving it.

Q: How many times should a person shower/bathe daily?

Bathing once a day, or even twice per day, is part of all of our routines. It’s what we do in the shower or bath that can really make an impact on our skin. Think of our bathing routine as the actual start of your beauty/skin-care routine. it’s important to understand is that excessive bathing while using the wrong products can really dry out the skin, which is worsened when there is long contact with hot water and harsh soaps. Be careful to not to over scrub/or over exfoliate the skin and always use a moisturizing cleanser. I recommend the Dove Beauty Bar as it gently but effectively cleanses, leaving soft, smooth skin. It won’t strip away skin’s moisture like soap can or leave behind that dry, tight feeling that ordinary soaps do, which can be a sign of dry skin damage. It’s also gentle enough to be used as a facial cleanser!

Q: What is the best way to treat my skin before and after waxing/shaving?

Think of waxing and shaving as a deep exfoliation where the skin is at risk of becoming super sensitive and more prone to irritation due to the stripping of skin cells. Never dry shave, and always use a moisturizing gel or wash to prep the skin. When shaving, make sure you change the blade to a fresh one regularly and keep it dry and away from humidity. This will avoid bacteria from growing on the blade and possibly prevent folliculitis. After shaving, be sure to moisturize the skin. Lastly, be mindful of direct sun exposure after waxing, as this can cause skin pigmentation in the waxed area.

Q: What is that tight or dry skin feeling many feel right after a bath/shower?

Feeling tight or dry immediately after a shower should not be considered “squeaky clean” or normal. This may be a sign that the stratum corneum was stripped of its essential lipids and hydrating proteins, stemming from the use of harsh cleansers or from too much contact with water.

Q: How should I dry my body after a shower?

Remember, not only do dirt, oil and dead skin cells come off your skin during a long shower, but so do lipids and natural hydrators. Be careful with rubbing your skin too hard when drying off after a shower. I suggest pat drying and while still moist, layer on a good moisturizer. You do not want to rub the skin too hard with a towel when drying off to prevent over drying it and preserve your skin’s own natural moisturizers.