Winter Dry Skin

It's that time of year again. Time for itchy dry skin, made worse by hot showers, low humidity and constant running heaters. Here are some simple solutions.

Take short (okay, this is NOT going to happen) showers with warm, not hot, (also not going to happen), water no more than once every 24 hours (okay, I can do this one). Pat dry and apply a moisturizer within 3 minutes.

For severely dry skin, use a grease, such as Vaseline, Aquaphor or even Crisco. This will trap the water into the skin and keep your skin hydrated. Most people don't like this because it is so greasy, but you can use it in small amounts and rub in thoroughly. I have used generic vegetable shortening and like it really well. I don't feel too greasy and my skin stays smooth all day. I also like the idea that you can use something so simple and inexpensive, and most of us have it in the kitchen cupboard already!

Bath oils are also a good choice and should be applied after you have dried and within that 3 minute window (hurry, the clock is ticking...) after patting dry. You can also use vegetable, mineral or baby oils. A friend of mine recommends coconut oil. Remember Skin So Soft? I think that fell into these lines... Where is an Avon lady when you need one?

Emollient creams, such as Eucerin or Cetaphil will also work to heal and prevent dry, cracked skin and are less greasy.

Lastly, lotions are an option, but since they contain alcohol they will not be as effective as the greasier, oilier choices. Frankly, my skin is not looking so great with the lotion option...

The greasier the feel of the moisturizer, the better it holds the water in the skin. You may need to apply several times a day. Do they make Crisco to go? Crisco compacts? I think I've hit on something!

You may also want to increase your intake of Omega-3 oils, (no one will notice the fishy smell when you burp), found in fatty fish or capsules, (okay, they MIGHT notice, but your skin is more important right?), or Flax seed oil. These are great nutrients for the skin.

Good luck with your battle with dry, itchy winter skin. If you have any tips let me know!