Many products help us achieve a beautiful complexion - but it's important to remember that makeup can only go so far to accentuate natural beauty. A flawless complexion starts with skincare!  Within your skin care regimen, moisturizer is the #1 most important step to keeping skin young and healthy. Remember, dehydration is the number one cause of dull skin, fine lines and wrinkles!

As the dry winter months approach us (especially in the Northeast!) choose products that are proven to keep skin happy and hydrated.

Here are our top picks for round-the-clock moisture for your visage this winter.

AM Hydration

In the morning, moisturize immediately after cleansing to avoid dehydration - as water evaporates it also takes the skin's moisture with it! 

For extremely dry skin types, we recommend selecting a creamy moisturizer like Creme de La Mer's original formula. 

If you have combination skin or are prone to breakouts, opt for something a bit lighter. We love Ole Henriksen's Sheer Transformation moisturizer.

Once you are moisturized (with an SPF!) top with makeup products that are also rich in hydration like Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Foundation SPF25 or Clinique's Supermoisture Makeup.

Note:Don't forget your lips! Lips require special care in the winter. Cover them with your moisturizers and protect them with a hydrating SPF balm like Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment and By Terry Baume de Rose.

Mid - Day Moisture

In the winter your face is exposed dry, cold wind daily, so it's a good idea to add a bit of moisturize periodically once you've left the house. For a mid day refresh, spritz a hydrating mist over makeup for a moisturizing refresh. Try Caudalie's Grape Water for normal skin or Fresh Rose Water for sensitive skin.

PM Absorption

Nighttime presents the best opportunity for deep hydration for eight hours or more - take advantage of it with an ultra hydrating butter.  

We love the Backstage Basics Hydrating Balm from Butter London.

For sensitive skin - The all natural shea butter from Shea Terra Organics is rich in moisture but is not too heavy or irritating for sensitive/acne prone skin.

A deep hydrating mask is also a great way to lock in maximum moisture while you sleep. Some great ones to try are Moisture Surge Overnight Mask from Clinique and Glamglow Thirstymud Hydrating Treatment.

Keep moisturizers in mind this winter and your skin will be one step closer to flawless!

Stay hydrated!

Erika - Color Me Staffer

What are your go-to moisturizing creams, butters and masks for the winter? Let us know in the comments!