How to Deal with Dry, Itchy Skin

In the winter months it is common to experience very dry, extremely itchy skin, especially if your skin is sensitive to begin with. Having lived with this problem myself, there are some easy things you can do to help keep your skin healthier without having to spend a lot of money or going to a dermatologist.

Heaters force dry air into your living space, which can dry out your skin quickly. Try running the heat a little less often or using a humidifier at night. Your body rebuilds itself at night, so it is a perfect time to moisturize your skin.

Make sure to use lotion several times a day, especially right before you go to bed. Some lotions are better than others - perfumes and dyes can irritate super-sensitive skin. Try a fragrance free formula designed specifically for dry skin. Cetaphil is an excellent one.

Try to wear gloves anytime you go out in the cold. Direct contact with cold air can dry out your skin and help cause cracking and bleeding. This will also have the obvious benefit of keeping you a little warmer.

Try shaving less often; if you shave every day try cutting back to every other day. Shaving can dry your skin so cutting back can give your skin a chance to keep a little moisture.

An oatmeal bath can also help. Aveeno, or a store brand knock-off, is a good product to try. Oatmeal can help soothe and moisturize your skin. You could do this daily but a few times a week should be enough to help. Aveeno also makes great lotions and cleansers you may want to try.

If your cuticles often crack and bleed try cuticle oil. It isn't very expensive and only takes a minute to put on. Try putting it on once a day at bedtime and it will prevent your cuticles from cracking (or help heal cracks that are already there) and make your nails healthier.

You can also try a pumice stone or loofah to help slough off dry skin cells. A pumice stone can also help you get rid of thick dry skin build up on the heels or balls of your feet.

Super hot showers, baths or hot tubs can also dry out your skin. Take your showers or baths at a lukewarm temperature or make your super hot showers shorter. And limit your time in hot tubs, and make sure to rinse off the chlorine and moisturize after.