Although nothing feels better than jacking up the thermostat after exposure to bone-chilling winter temps, its safe to say winter takes a serious toll on our skin .

And sure, you may have already started to whip out that thick face cream out of your medicine cabinet. However, some ingredients in your trusty ultra-hydrating moisturizer may secretly be contributing to the dry and flaking skin you try so very hard to get rid of. Ingredients such as fragrances, synthetic dyes and parabens, for example, can cause irritation and burning, which is a major no-no when youre already exposed to the harsh, cold air.

Alas, those three drying ingredients above arent the only ones to avoid, as we tapped six board-certified dermatologists (and a board-certified plastic surgeon) to break down other ingredients to avoid, should you want to keep your skin in tip-top shape this winter.

1. Mineral Oil

According to the Environmental Working Group , mineral oil is a liquid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum. This ingredient, which is commonly used in cosmetics, can be a possible human immune system toxicant or allergen, according to EWG.

Additionally, board-certified dermatologist Rina Allawh suggested that while mineral oil is used in facial oils, body moisturizers and cosmetics, it can be specifically harmful to those with acne-prone skin.

When mineral oil is used on the face, it may result in acne flares, she explained. This thick emollient has been shown to clog pores.

2. Propylene Glycol

You may find this seemingly safe ingredient lurking inside your daily moisturizer. However, the Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry suggested that frequent skin exposure to this substance can cause unwanted irritation.

And yes, Allawh noted that propylene glycol does contain potent moisturizing properties. However, she added that its definitely not suitable for those who deal with sensitive or dry skin on a daily basis.

This ingredient is found to be a common irritant, she added. Regular use of moisturizers containing this substance can lead to skin rashes, exacerbation of eczema and burning.

3. Fragrances

Fragrances, without a doubt, are currently inside many of your scented moisturizing products. However, Allawh explained that this ingredient is also common irritant, leading to rashes, burning and itching.

And while fragrance can be listed as an ingredient on the back of moisturizing products, she added that some brands may not be as forthcoming about listing it on the product label.

Fragrance may not be directly included on the product label, so I counsel my patients to examine the ingredient label for balsam of Peru, she said. This ingredient typically contains a strong, rich and sweet odor.

4. Synthetic Dyes Or Colors

Synthetic dyes or colors also can find their way inside moisturizing creams. The Environmental Working Group suggested that FD&C Yellow 6, for example, is a petroleum-based synthetic dye that is approved by the FDA to be used in pharmaceuticals, food and cosmetics.

However, board-certified dermatologist Sonia Batra suggested that while these ingredients may receive FDA approval for use, these same dyes and colors can also be harmful to the skin and human health.

These colors can trigger allergies and irritation in the skin, and are suspected to be carcinogens, Batra warned. They are also banned in the European Union.