The best winter cream for dry skin should contain hydrating ingredients that help to soothe and nourish the skin. Some essential ingredients to look for in a winter moisturizer include ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and chemical exfoliants
. Ceramides help to maintain properly moisturized skin by keeping the skin's natural barrier in check, while glycerin is a humectant that draws moisture to the skin. Shea butter helps to soothe dry, irritated skin while retaining moisture and helping the skin heal. Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent ingredient for hydrating the skin
. Chemical exfoliants such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) can help to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, revealing smoother, brighter skin
. It is also important to avoid harsh ingredients that can strip the skin of its natural oils, such as alcohol and fragrances. Some recommended winter creams for dry skin include the yeast-derived beta glucan cream, jojoba oil, and ceramides cream, and the SheaMoisture 100% Raw Shea Butter Ceramides
. Homemade winter creams can also be effective, such as a face cream made with argan oil, emu oil, and fragrant essential oil, or a cream made with glycerin, honey, green tea, and fresh lemon juice
. It is important to note that individual results may vary, and it is always recommended to patch test new products before applying them to the face.