Does my body need a skin care routine?

Q: I’ve perfected a skin care routine for my face. Should I have something similar for the rest of my body?

A: Dermatologists see it all the time. Patients come in with flawless complexions, but below the neck it’s a different story.

Often, the skin on their bodies is so dry it “looks like alligator skin,” while their faces are well moisturized, said Dr. Ariel Ostad, a cosmetic dermatologist in New York City. Others have dry patches on their backs or dark spots on their hands and arms, said Dr. Lauren Ploch, a dermatologist in Aiken, South Carolina.

Many people neglect body care because the face is what’s usually on display, Ploch said. But the skin on the rest of your body needs just as much attention.

Less is more

When it comes to establishing a skin care routine for your body, less is more, said Dr. Lindsey Bordone, a dermatologist at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia hospital in New York City.

Dermatologists suggest this three-step routine.

Step 1: Cleanse properly

You generally need to lather up the entire body only two to three times a week, he said. “My patients do a double-take when I say this,” he added.

However, you do need to cleanse the areas that get dirty or sweaty, such as hands, feet, armpits, groin and buttocks, every day. And Ploch suggests washing your entire body with soap daily if your job requires frequent contact with people or germs, such as in health care or education.

Make sure it’s a gentle cleanser, Ploch said. Ostad recommended products with glycerin, niacinamide, urea, hyaluronic acid or ceramides, which are humectants, or substances that trap and replenish moisture in the skin.

Avoid antibacterial soaps, rough body scrubs and items with fragrance.

Step 2: Moisturize

Slathering lotion or cream all over your body, especially on your arms, legs, torso and hard-to-reach areas like your back, is essential for healthy skin, dermatologists say.

Look for moisturizers with humectant ingredients similar to those in cleansers: ceramides, hyaluronic acid, urea, glycerin and shea butter, all of which lock in moisture, Ostad said. And use oil-free products if you have acne.

The best time to moisturize is just after stepping out of the shower and patting yourself dry, Bordone said. Apply a thick moisturizer to slightly damp skin to help it retain moisture throughout the day.

Step 3: Apply sunscreen

You should always apply sunscreen to any areas of your body that will be exposed to the sun, like your face, chest, arms, legs and hands, Ploch said.

Most experts recommend using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapplying it at least every two hours.

When to see a dermatologist

See a specialist if your skin still feels tight, dry or irritated even after using a gentle cleanser and moisturizing daily, Ploch said. You could have a skin condition, such as acne, eczema or contact dermatitis, that needs treatment.

JOYCE LEE/THE NEW YORK TIMES Many people pay the most attention to the skin on the face, but the rest of the body needs care, too.