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1. MYTH: The thicker the cream, the better it hydrates.
TRUTH: Concentration doesn't equal hydration. An overdose of lipids can actually trap dead cells, leaving skin even duller. It is suggested to layer serums under creams in order to boost moisture. Serums are light, but are ideal for absorption.

2. MYTH: Exfoliating in winter exacerbates dry patches.
TRUTH: Exfoliating in fact causes a burst of cell renewal, which means that you help new moisture-rich cells move to the surface. In the winter, the key is to moisturize as your skin barrier is weakened after exfoliating.

3. MYTH: Steamy showers impart moisture to dry skin.
TRUTH: They might feel great on bone-chilling days, but hot showers and baths are extremely drying. Exposure to hot water causes blood-vessel dilation that results in water loss. If you crave heat, simply keep it under five minutes and use a soap-free body wash instead of bar soap. Pat - don't rub - your skin dry, and moisturize while it's damp to help your cream penetrate.

4. MYTH: Overcast skies mean you can cut back on sunscreen.
TRUTH: Hardly. As a depleting ozone has led to stronger UVB burning rays, SPF is now a year-round endeavor. And clouds do little to filter out wrinkle-accelerating UVA rays. Come cooler, drier weather, find a daily moisturizer with a broad-spectrum SPF 15 (or higher) to hydrate and protect. You can enhance your sun protection exponentially by using an antioxidant-rich serum underneath your moisturizer.

5. MYTH: Loading up on lip balms prevents chapping.
TRUTH: Only if it's the right balm. Some common ingredients can actually have an adverse effect. Mineral oil (petroleum jelly) creates an artificial film on your lips, signaling your skin to stop producing lipids, while funky flavors, perfumes, and colors can also dry out skin. King suggests seeking natural-oil-infused balms or those with shea and cocoa butter. "To get rid of flaky patches, apply a little facial exfoliant to damp lips (a soft toothbrush also does the trick), scrub gently, then follow with balm".

Source: Marie Claire UK