If you have dry skin, you may want to use a humidifier in your home to add moisture indoors. Setting the humidity level between 40 and 50 percent can help alleviate some of the symptoms. During the winter months, the hot dry air produced by the furnace causes your skin to feel especially dry. Particularly if you have sensitive skin, the itching, irritation and flaking will tend to be worse in the colder climate. The harsher winter conditions affect your skin’s ability to self hydrate and maintain its natural moisture barrier function. Regular applications of a good quality moisturizer will help your skin to retain hydration and minimize the drying effects of extreme temperatures from the outdoor chilly weather and the indoor heat. Products with a thicker consistency (oil or cream base) will be more effective. Frequent applications of lotions and creams can serve to continually replenish lost moisture and especially help those with skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, to manage the discomfort of chronically dry and irritated skin.
