Health Tip: How Dry I Am

(HealthDayNews) -- Does your skin become scaly, dry, raw or itchy during winter?

As humidity drops with the onset of colder weather, your skin loses the ability to moisturize itself, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Couple that with heavier clothing and hotter showers and baths, and your skin can become dry and itchy.

The best way to prevent and treat winter skin problems is to use a moisturizer (greasier substances tend to moisturize better).

If the itchiness doesn't go away, you might consider an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory cream, such as hydrocortisone.

Other winter skin tips include:

• After washing hands, immediately apply hand cream to seal in moisture.
• Use a lip balm to prevent chapped lips.
• Use a humidifier at home during winter.

-- Dennis Thompson