Friends, dryness is not typically something one complains about during a Portland winter. But it’s been so dry here, I’m starting to have post-traumatic flashbacks fond memories of growing up in Utah, where things were so dry, nosebleeds were a way of life.

Of course, even if you’re not living in a bizarre dry weather triangle, I’m running a humidifier nonstop, but as you might expect, it’s barely making a dent. My skin and hair are not pleased, and they’re being quite vocal about their unhappiness – frizz, flaky skin, general ickiness. It’s not pretty. But I’ve found a few saviors that are getting me through this dry spell (ha!) with remarkable results, so I couldn’t help sharing.

I’m a lifelong fan of Living Proof’s styling products, so when I fell for their new Restore shampoo and conditioner, I wasn’t surprised. Except I was. Because I have never, ever found a shampoo that actually improves the condition of my hair. Ever. Nor have I ever been able to get away with using “regular” conditioner (instead of a hair mask). Lately, my hair has descended into dangerously dry, frizzy territory, but these products managed to bring it back to life. More than that, my hair has almost returned to its lustrous, pre-processed self – even with all that flat-ironing I’ve been doing.

Post-shower, I’ve been adding a dose of Moroccan Oil to my hair, and then a dollop of Philip Kingsley’s Smooth Cream, which is my new favorite multitasker. Apply to wet hair, allow to air dry, and watch easy, beachy (non-frizzy) waves appear. Apply to semi-dry hair, blow your hair out as usual, and watch yourself get an extra day out of your style (and no obnoxious flyaways). Genius!

Then there’s the problem of my skin. I almost exclusively rely on Eucerin for my body lotion – I just haven’t found anything else I love as well. But for my face, I wanted to add moisture without just slathering on more night cream. The solution was Nude Skincare’s Replenishing Night Oil. Just a few drops applied before my nighttime moisturizer, particularly to more troubled spots (nose, I’m looking at you), and my skin is so very, very much happier. I was a bit scared to try an oil, but there hasn’t been a single breakout to report. On really dry days, I’ll even apply a bit over my makeup – it soaks in without leaving a trace, and is an instant cure.

If you have any tips or tricks to add, I’d love to hear them! Leave your ideas in the comments, won’t you?

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