Winter is one of the harshest seasons of the year, with its cold temperatures and extra dry atmosphere. When you don’t take the right precautions, these weather conditions can lead to a decrease in the moisture levels in your body and leave you with uncomfortably dry skin.
Dry skin can be both itchy and painful. The drier your skin is, the more susceptible it is to cracks and inflammation. Keep the following tips in mind this winter to keep your skin looking its best.

Use a Quality Moisturizer
Using a high-quality moisturizer is one of the easiest ways to increase the moisture in your skin. Rather than opting for a cream or a lotion (which can be lighter moisturizers), choose an ointment, especially ones with hyaluronic acid and dimethicone. These ingredients can keep your skin moisturized for longer. Lanolin and mineral oil are also great choices for keeping your skin hydrated.

Drink Lots of Water
It can be easy to forget that our skin is an organ. As our body’s largest organ, it requires sufficient water levels to be effective at being your body’s first line of defense against sickness and energy. The most commonly recommended amount of water for the average adult to drink each day is eight 8-ounce cups. During the winter months, you still need just as much water as you do in the summer.

Take Shorter Showers
Hot water can increase your skin’s dryness. Taking long showers in overly warm water can be detrimental to your skin. Try keeping showers to just a couple of minutes and lowering the temperature of the water. You’ll save energy costs, be more environmentally friendly, and keep your skin looking healthy.
Use Hypoallergenic Detergents and Soaps
Sometimes, harsh detergents can be the cause of your dry, itchy skin. Try switching to a gentle, fragrance free laundry detergent to see if this improves the condition of your skin. Choose mild body soaps and shampoos to prevent additional rough chemicals from coming into contact with your skin.

Use a Humidifier
A humidifier is a simple machine that adds moisture to your home. Invest in a humidifier and use it while you’re sleeping to add humidity to the air. You can control the moisture levels to find a good balance for your home’s air quality. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t use a humidifier for too many hours during the day, as too much moisture being put into your home can cause mold to occur.

Consult Your Doctor
If your skin is excessively dry, you may have a common condition known as atopic dermatitis, or more commonly called eczema. Eczema affects around 35 million Americans and is characterized by extremely itchy, dry skin that often feels leathery. It can even result in blisters. Consult your doctor to find out the best ways for you to manage your condition. Your doctor may recommend medications, certain moisturizers, and adjustments to your daily routine to alleviate your symptoms.