How to Soothe Dry Winter Skin

Sledding, skiing are a roaring fire...winter's cold wind and dry indoor heat can really do a number on your skin. Making some simple changes in your daily habits will help soothe your skin from the pain and itch that accompanies winter dryness.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Avoid long, hot, steamy showers. Hot water dries the skin much more than cool water so keep your shower short and use tepid water whenever possible.
2. Use soap only under your arms and in your groin area. Most commercial soaps are very harsh on the skin and really aren't necessary for cleaning. All you really need is water and a wash cloth.
3. Take a bath with conditioning oils added to your water. The oil provides a barrier on your skin that helps trap water in. Just be careful when getting in and out as the oil also makes the tub slippery.
4. Apply a good rich moisturizer to soothe dry skin several times a day. After a bath or shower, it's best to put lotion on your skin while it's still damp as it will help trap the water needed to keep skin hydrated.
5. Let your skin air dry instead of rubbing vigorously with a towel. The rubbing can irritate your skin and drying the water with a towel robs your skin of a chance to absorb the extra moisture.
6. Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated oils which help moisten skin and improve body tissue. Try adding more salmon, tuna, olive oil and almonds to your diet.

Tips & Warnings

• If severe dryness persists in spite of your taking measures to soothe it, see your doctor. You could be suffering from a serious skin condition that may need prescription medication.