Men's Journal

Summer is simple: All you really need is sunscreen. But the dry, harsh winter months demand products that soothe several ailments. Here are the essentials.

By Ellen Tien

Molton Brown Nurture Desert Bloom Ultrabalm

What it does: Repairs and soothes chapped lips
Key ingredient: Myrothamnus flabellifolia, or resurrection plant, which grows in the desert areas of South Africa
Why it works: This one is still a bit of a mystery. While there are tons of positive testimonials for the product, little is actually known about Myrothamnus flabellifolia. The thing we do know, says New York chemist Ian Ginsberg, is “it’s commonly smoked in Africa to kill pain.” $30; moltonbrown.com

Malin + Goetz Cilantro Hair Conditioner

What it does: Conditions and styles dry hair
Key ingredients: Panthenol and cilantro
Why it works: “Hair becomes dry and brittle in the winter, but panthenol helps to thicken the hair shaft, attracting water to the scalp,” says Dr. David Colbert, a dermatologist in New York City. “The cilantro has two antioxidants that protect against scalp damage, too.” $22; malinandgoetz.com

Revolution Organics All-Over body balm

What it does: Wards off face-freeze
Key ingredient: Cacao butter
Why it works: “Cacao butter is a classic moisturizing barrier in the petrolatum family,” says New York dermatologist Dr. David Biro. “It stops moisture from freezing on your face and frostbiting you. Any balm will do, but this one theoretically wards off aging.” $28; revolutionorganics.com

C.O. Bigelow Peach Nut Oil Liquid Soap

What it does: Cleans and doubles as shaving cream
Key ingredient: Peach nut oil
Why it works: “Most shave creams can be harsh,” says Dr. Colbert. “But peach nut oil is gentle — which is important for skin that’s been exposed to winter’s elements — and very hydrating. I especially like it after skiing.” $15; bathandbodyworks.com

Korres Natural Products Ruscus & Chestnut Men’s Cream SPF 15

What it does: Moisturizes and protects your face from the sun while smoothing wrinkles
Key ingredient: Sweet chestnut
Why it works: The product has SPF to keep away sun damage. But the best part about this is that “the sweet chestnut contains antioxidants that help fight sun-induced wrinkles,” says Dr. Colbert. $33; sephora.com

Mission Athlete Engineered Anti-Friction Cream

What it does: Fights body chafing caused by winter boots and jacket zippers
Key ingredient: Silicone
Why it works: “Silicone enhances the skin’s natural barrier to help prevent chafing,” says Dr. Biro. “Plus, the way it’s chemically structured, it feels silky and non-greasy when you put it on your skin, as opposed to heavier traditional barriers like Vaseline.” $13; missionskincare.com

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This article originally appeared in the December 2009/January 2010 issue of Men’s Journal.