Keep showers short, apply moisturizer, wear soft fabrics such as cotton.
(HealthDay)—Dry skin is common during the winter and can lead to flaking, itching, cracking and even bleeding. But you can prevent and treat dry skin, an expert says.
"It's tempting, especially in cold weather, to take long, hot showers," Dr. Stephen Stone said in an American Academy of Dermatology news release. "But being in the water for a long time and using hot water can be extremely drying to the skin. Keep your baths and showers short and make sure you use warm, not hot, water."
"Switching to a mild cleanser can also help reduce itching," said Stone, a professor of dermatology at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. "Be sure to gently pat the skin dry after your bath or shower, as rubbing the skin can be irritating."
Stone, who also is the school's director of clinical research, recommended applying moisturizer after getting out of the bath or shower. Ointments and creams tend to be more effective than lotions, he said.
Be sure to check the ingredients in skin-care products, Stone said, because deodorant soaps, alcohol-based toners and products that contain fragrance can irritate dry, sensitive skin.
People tend to wash their hands more often in the winter to rid themselves of potentially harmful germs, he said. If you clean your hands frequently, hand sanitizers are a good alternative.
It's a good idea to apply hand cream after each hand-washing, Stone said. If the skin on your hands needs more help, dab petroleum jelly on them before bed. If your hands are frequently immersed in water, wear waterproof gloves.
Stone suggested using a humidifier to add moisture to your home's air. He also recommended wearing soft fabrics that breathe, such as 100 percent cotton. With wool or other rough fabrics, wear a soft fabric underneath, he said.
If these measures don't relieve your dry skin, you may require a prescription ointment or cream, Stone said. Dry skin can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as eczema, he said.
Explore further: Coping tips for winter skin
More information: The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology has more about dry skin.
Copyright © 2013 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
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Keep showers short, apply moisturizer, wear soft fabrics such as cotton.
(HealthDay)—Dry skin is common during the winter and can lead to flaking, itching, cracking and even bleeding. But you can prevent and treat dry skin, an expert says.
"It's tempting, especially in cold weather, to take long, hot showers," Dr. Stephen Stone said in an American Academy of Dermatology news release. "But being in the water for a long time and using hot water can be extremely drying to the skin. Keep your baths and showers short and make sure you use warm, not hot, water."
"Switching to a mild cleanser can also help reduce itching," said Stone, a professor of dermatology at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. "Be sure to gently pat the skin dry after your bath or shower, as rubbing the skin can be irritating."
Stone, who also is the school's director of clinical research, recommended applying moisturizer after getting out of the bath or shower. Ointments and creams tend to be more effective than lotions, he said.
Be sure to check the ingredients in skin-care products, Stone said, because deodorant soaps, alcohol-based toners and products that contain fragrance can irritate dry, sensitive skin.
People tend to wash their hands more often in the winter to rid themselves of potentially harmful germs, he said. If you clean your hands frequently, hand sanitizers are a good alternative.
It's a good idea to apply hand cream after each hand-washing, Stone said. If the skin on your hands needs more help, dab petroleum jelly on them before bed. If your hands are frequently immersed in water, wear waterproof gloves.
Stone suggested using a humidifier to add moisture to your home's air. He also recommended wearing soft fabrics that breathe, such as 100 percent cotton. With wool or other rough fabrics, wear a soft fabric underneath, he said.
If these measures don't relieve your dry skin, you may require a prescription ointment or cream, Stone said. Dry skin can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as eczema, he said.
Explore further: Coping tips for winter skin
More information: The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology has more about dry skin.
Copyright © 2013 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Medical Xpress on facebook
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Coping tips for winter skin
Dec 01, 2013
(HealthDay)—The cold, dry air of winter can deplete your skin of moisture and cause "winter itch."
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Aug 25, 2013
(HealthDay)—Sun protection is among the skin care habits that can help people with the chronic skin condition psoriasis reduce some of the discomfort they may experience, such as skin itching, cracking ...
Tips to avoid dry skin during winter
Jan 06, 2013
(HealthDay)—Throughout the winter, excessive hand washing to prevent the spread of germs can leave skin extremely dry and itchy. Drinking coffee and alcoholic beverages can also lead to dehydration and ...
Pediatric skin ailments common in winter
Nov 27, 2013
As parents across the Chicago area prepare to take that perfect holiday photo to send to family and friends, they may want to consider more than just getting their kids to smile and look at the camera.
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Nov 14, 2012
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© Medical Xpress 2011-2013, Science X network
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