Growing up in Chicago, I had to learn how to navigate the changing seasons. That meant dealing with the good (four separate wardrobes), the bad (experiencing three seasons in a single day), and the ugly (horrible hat hair). Eventually, I realized the ultimate survival skill was figuring out how to keep my skin hydrated. Between the biting wind outside and the moisture-sucking radiator heat inside, winter is a battle. To keep from crumbling into a pile of dust I’ve adopted a few essential habits:

Keep those humidifiers running! Humidifiers are your best defense, especially in the bedroom, to keep from  feeling like an unrolled mummy (this is not an exaggeration). Running one at night adds water back into the air, preventing your skin from drying out while you sleep. Bed, Bath and Beyond has some great options and a 20% off coupon! Bonus: Add a little essential oil to make your bedroom smell like a spa.

Swap lotion for cream. Lotions, which feel moisturizing when first applied, are often water-based and evaporate quickly. Instead switch to heavy-duty creams, which provide a thicker, more durable moisture barrier.

To really lock in that moisture, use occlusives like petrolatum or shea butter over creams.  Petrolatums also work wonders on dry cuticles.  Aquaphor, for example, is  great and can be purchased with HSA/FSA funds.

The “3-Minute Rule”: Don’t dry off completely after a shower. (I know—but trust me on this). Pat yourself with a towel so your skin is still slightly damp, then apply your body cream immediately. This traps the existing water on your skin’s surface before the dry air can steal it.

Oil up that mane! Our hair isn’t just battling the elements; it’s also being blow-dried, flat-ironed, and curled. To fight the frizz, try using a product like Shea Moisture’s 100% Argan Oil after using hot tools. It brings back the shine and hydrates those frayed ends.

Layer your skincare. At night, after washing off your makeup with an oil-based cleanser (like Cetaphil’s Nourishing Oil to Foam Cleanser), thinly layer your products. Give each layer a moment to sink in before moving to the next. The ideal survival order? Toner, serum, moisturizer and finally oil.

Water, water, water! People think  water and fluids are interchangeable.  But energy drinks, sugary soft drinks, and especially alcohol actually dehydrate you. Make a habit of refilling your water glass every time you get up so that hydration is always within arm’s reach.

By taking these small steps, you can improve your skin hydration even in the harshest winters. And remember: We can’t let the radiators win! Stay warm and hydrated out there, friends.