6 Tips to Get Rid of Dry Skin in the Winter

Article by : Jen Adkins, About.com Guide

Dry skin is very common in the cold winter months, but with a little TLC, your skin doesn't have to be dry, itch or flake.
First, take a moment to read 5 Skin-Saving Tips for Your Shower or Bath to see if you're making a major dry skin mistake and then come back to read some additional skin-soothing tips for dry skin. Following these tips will help you get rid of dry skin for good.

1. Put Hand Lotion by Each Sink (and One in Your Handbag!)

With as many times as you wash your hands during the day, no wonder they are parched, dry and possibly cracking. Luckily for you, this is an easy fix.
Every time you wash your hands, dry them off and apply a pump of hand lotion. It may take a little while to get used to the added step, but your hands will thank you for it when they go from dry to moisturized around the clock. And don't forget to add a travel-size bottle in your handbag for on-the-go washings out in the public.

2. Wear Gloves

Cold weather is simply a recipe for dry, cracked hands. This is easy to avoid by simply wearing gloves. The elements are so harsh on your skin, but by wearing your gloves each time you head out, you'll limit the exposure your hands have to the cold weather, which will help prevent dry skin.
Look for gloves to go on sale and pick up an extra pair or two so that when the inevitable glove goes missing, you'll have an extra set.

3. Moisturize Your Lips

If you've ever had horribly dry, chapped lips, chances are good you've got a constant supply of lip balm in every location possible. If you haven't experienced super chapped lips, do yourself a favor and avoid it at all costs.
Your lips need extra-special care all of the time, but especially in the winter. Stay away from the lip glosses which can cause a sticky mess if rubbed on your scarf. Go with a nice chap stick or lip balm that simply provides moisture. And don't forget sun protection. The snow reflects the sun's rays, and you always want to be protected.

4. Itchy Scalp? Massage it.

Dry skin on your scalp leads to flakes and itching, something that most people want to avoid. If you're dealing with itchy scalp, get a conditioner made for dry hair and massage it onto your scalp with your fingertips while in the shower. This will not only buff off built up flakes, it will moisturize and soothe your itchy scalp.
Another good way to encourage extra oils in your scalp is to brush your hair at night with a gentle brush. Concentrate on the scalp. It not only feels good, it's good for your scalp as well.

5. Add Moisture into the Air

With furnaces running, doors and windows closed and air being recirculated constantly, dry air is all around, and that dry air enables dry skin. A humidifier will immensely help add moisture to your home's air. I remember my Grandmother simply filling a big bowl and setting it in front of her heat vents, so if your vents are off floor level, give that a try before purchasing a new piece of equipment.

6. Vaseline Works Wonders

I know, Vaseline isn't really the high-end pampering product you might want to buy, but Vaseline can be a skin-saver for dry skin in the winter months. There are so many uses for Vaseline as well.

• For extremely cracked hands and feet, apply and then put on cotton socks and gloves. Doing this will give immediate results.(If you can't sleep like this, find an hour or so during the day.)
• Apply to cracked cuticles
• Apply to small areas after exfoliating. (dry spots like elbows, knees and heels)
• Put over windburned cheeks before heading back outdoors. It will seal and protect. (Especially good for children.)
• This is amazing lip balm. You'll notice instant, yet long lasting hydration. (No SPF though.)

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