VIDEO: Tips on How to Avoid That "Winter Itch" (Added 1/15/07)

By Nate Crossett

Story Created: Jan 15, 2007 at 10:55 AM EST

Story Updated: Jan 15, 2007 at 10:55 AM EST

The winter season often means very dry skin.  You may not know this but the thermostats in your office and home have a lot to do with the dry skin you're experiencing right now.

Are you a victim of winter itch? That dry skin driving you crazy?  Dry skin is primarily associated with cold, dry weather and with heat on in the buildings.  Dermatologists say hot water doesn't help, either. Combined with harsh soap and you've got a "double whammy" removing your skin's natural oils.

Dr. Forrest Brown offers these tips to avoid winter itch.

1. Protect with a moisturizer.
2. Change your bathing habits. Do it less often and when you do, use a moisture-rich soap and cooler water.

"While you still have water on your body, don't dry, pour a moisturizing lotion or even bath oil in your skin and soothe it over you so that it will incorporate those drops of moisture," says Dr. Brown.
 
Doctors say there's no need to buy really expensive moisturizers with exotic ingredients.

In general, doctors say pick the ones you like but this time of year, the greasier, the better.

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