Keep Skin Soft During Dry Winter Months

SUNDAY, Dec. 5 (HealthDayNews) -- It's the time of year when many people experience "winter itch," caused by dry, flaky skin.

"Remember, dry skin is due to lack of water, not oil. Apply moisturizers immediately after bathing or showering to trap water in the skin," Dr. Diane Berson, a dermatologist at the Iris Cantor Women's Health Center of New York-Presbyterian Hospital, said in a prepared statement.

She offers the following advice on how to avoid winter itch:

• Moisturize daily. Cream moisturizers are best for normal to dry skin. A moisturizer without perfume or lanolin is best for people with sensitive skin.
• Don't overdo skin cleansing. Once a day is sufficient to wash your face, hands, feet and between the folds of your skin. You can rinse your trunk, arms and legs daily, but don't use cleanser or soap on these areas every day. Too much cleansing removes the skin's natural moisturizers.
• If you have winter itch, take short, lukewarm showers or baths and use non-irritating, non-detergent-based cleansers. Immediately after your shower or bath, apply a water-in-oil-type moisturizer and gently pat your skin dry.
• Household humidifiers can help prevent dry skin.
• Protect yourself from the wind by covering your face and using a petroleum-based lip balm.
• Try to avoid extreme cold, which can cause frostbite or skin disorders in some people.
• Protect your skin from the sun. Winter sun can be as dangerous as summer sun. Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or greater.
• Twenty to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise three times a week can give your skin a healthy glow.
• If you have persistent dry skin, itching or scaling, see your dermatologist.

More information

The U.S. National Library of Medicine has more about dry skin.

-- Robert Preidt

SOURCE: New York-Presbyterian Hospital, news release, December 2004