Tips for maintaining moist skin during dry winter months

Jet, Nov 14, 2005

Dry winter weather can zap the moisture right out of your skin, which can cause you to have rough, scaly, dry skin.

But Dr. Renee Martin Earles, a dermatologist of Dr. Earles LLC in Chicago, says that a little daily TLC in the wintertime can help prevent winter's drying effects.

"Add moisture to your skin because you lose some," says Earles. "So we need to replace it. The amount that you need to replace depends on the amount you lose."

Earles offers the following tips so that you can say goodbye to dull, dry skin and hello to soft, silky skin.

Avoid harsh soaps: Soaps with heavy detergents remove oils from the skin and cause your skin to dry out. Use mild, moisturizing soaps.

Moisturize your skin: Use an emollient every day. Whether it's a moisturizing lotion, baby oil or petroleum jelly, Earles says use what's best for you. He also recommends that you apply oil on a washcloth and rub it all over your damp skin while you shower.

Limit hot water: If you bathe or wash your hands in hot water, Earles says use hot water in moderation.

"The hotter the water, the more oil it takes out of your skin," he says.

"Hot bubble baths in cold weather really feels good, if you like bubble baths. Bubble baths are wonderful, but if you use bubble baths, then you want to be sure to use plenty of lubricants afterwards."

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends taking shorter, cooler and less frequent baths and showers.

Add moisture in your home: Since people turn heaters on in the winter, their skin can dry out, but adding a humidifier can help circulate moist air.

Moisturize your lips: Since the lips are exposed to weather, Earles recommends using a lip balm or petroleum jelly daily to fight dry, chapped lips.

If you develop a skin rash or itchiness from severe dryness, Earles recommends that you consult a doctor. Otherwise, he says daily care is the best treatment for dry skin.

"We all get dry in the wintertime, and it's important to restore the moisture back to the skin so that you can avoid a lot of skin problems," he says.