“People with severely dry skin experience cracks and inflammation,” says Susan Taylor, a dermatologist in Philadelphia. That means you need intensely hydrating products, like oils, creams, and butters.

On Your Face, Use:

Make Up For Ever So Divine Moisturizing Cleansing Cream, $27
A moisturizing, tissue-off cleanser is your best bet, as it doesn’t require water (which can dehydrate skin as it evaporates).
To Buy: www.sephora.com.

Clinique Zero Gravity Repairwear Lift (Very Dry to Dry), $52.50
Its rich texture soothes dry, raw skin, while ingredients like linoleic acid help prevent moisture loss.
To Buy: www.clinique.com.

On Your Body, Use:

Gabriel Couzian Washing Oil Shower and Bath Wash, $45
This oil-based cleanser leaves behind a protective (but not greasy) layer that also soothes irritation and redness.
To Buy: www.gabrielcouzian-usa.com.

Sheaterra East African Shea Butter, $14
Shea butter helps keep cracked skin soft and pliable, so fissures don’t get worse. This one has no chemical preservatives, which can be irritating to already compromised skin.
To Buy: 877-427-6627.

On Feet And Hands, Use:

Kerasal One Step Exfoliating Moisturizer Therapy Foot Ointment, $6
With salicylic acid, this ointment sloughs off dead skin cells that dry out and crack. This allows the urea in the formula to penetrate deeper into the skin and seal in moisture.
To Buy: At drugstores.

Burt’s Bees Hand Salve, $8
This nearly solid beeswax and olive-oil balm softens and protects painful skin.
To Buy: www.burtsbees.com.