How to : STOP Winter From Ruining Your SKIN (itchy

Our poor doggie friend looks really grumpy. Every now and then I thank the heavens I was able to live most of my life in perfect weather during winter months. I still get itchy skin...but, then..I take two showers a day which doesn't help my skin much. For those of you who suffer brutal winters of snow and ice in places like Wisconsin and North Dakota (think Fargo) perhaps a few of my comments below will make the journey to springtime easier.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. 
   Your skin is your friend, I hope.

   First off, let me clarify one thing. Snow is not water, it's frozen ice crystals. If you don't take care of your precious skin, sometimes it will get dry and flaky...mostly because it becomes derived of water, causing dryness and itchiness. My daughter-in-law in Wisconsin, refers to it as the "winter itch." I've never spent much time in a dermatologist's office, but I did talk with one about wintertime skin discomforts. Basically, his comments were: "if it gets severe, seek medical attention immediately. Good advice.

2. 
   Skin Trouble? This is where you go. Dermatologist's Office.

   Here's another quote: "The best thing you can do to relieve the itch is to moisturize your skin because, unfortunately, you can't do much about the weather." So, if your skin is beginning to look like that alligator you saw last summer in Florida, think about this: 1. Use a cream moisturizer. It's better than pure lotion. 2. Limit the use of hot water and soap. Lukewarm showers or baths are better. This is my problem. Also, don't rub your skin dry. Pat it softly.

3. 3. If you can't stay out of the wind, at least cover your face for protection. 4. There is a winter sun. Even though it sounds crazy, protect your skin from Mr. Sun even when it's cold. 5. Humidifiers. I got two of them for my grandkids last year when they lived in Colorado which really helped their skin. 6. Cold temps can cause skin frostbite. Avoid going out when it's really cold.

Tips & Warnings

• I know this sounds stupid, but when skin problems arise like dry, itching, rashes, and scaling appear, see a dermatologist immediately. Finally, I found the best lip balm of all times. It's called CARMEX. (no, it's not for your car) These guys have been around since 1930. Check them out. CARMA LABORATORIES, FRANKLIN, WISCONSIN. Good stuff.