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Dry skin isn't all it's cracked up to be

The cold of winter tends to really bring out dry skin, which can be everything from mildly bothersome to a major issue if it causes cracks in the skin that become infected.  This is what our dermatologists typically recommend to help:

- Bathe once a day or less. As you get older, bathing every other day may be more than enough.

- Avoid long or hot showers, even though they may feel great. Hot water and soap dry out the skin.

- Use a mild soap such as Cetaphil liquid cleanser or bar, Aquanil,  Dove unscented soap, Olay bar, etc.  Do not use Ivory, which dries the skin a lot, or the heavily scented soaps such as Irish Spring, or Zest.

- Use FRAGRANCE FREE mild laundry detergents such as Arm and Hammer, Free and Clear, or Cheer Free liquid.

- Avoid fabric softener sheets in the dryer.  Think about it!  These are the only chemicals which are put on your clothing during the laundry cycle which stay in the clothing.

- Avoid fragrant products such as detergent, soap, lotion, or perfume.

APPLY MOISTURIZERS TO THE BODY ONCE OR TWICE A DAY.

Thick creams are better than thin lotions, but only if you will use them regularly.  Anything you like enough to use regularly will work better than anything you do not use. They should be applied within 3 minutes after every shower.  Lotions may be better for the face if acne is a problem.

Try these three categories of moisturizers, by finding the key words on their labels:
 Ceramides -- the skin's natural moisturizing layer. 
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) -- These pull the moisture found deeper in the skin upwards to combat dry skin
Traditional barrier creams – These stop water evaporation from the skin, like pouring oil on water. If neither ceramide nor AHA is mentioned on the product label, it's probably a traditional barrier cream.

See what approach works best for you, then try different brands in that category.

Usually thicker creams or ointments are more effective than lotions.  But if you don't like thick creams, try a lotion.  Lotions contain more water. 

Oatmeal baths for 15 minutes daily may relieve some itching. You may try Aveeno bath packets or one cup dry oatmeal in a knee-high hose dropped into the bath.

Lotions which provide temporary relief from itching include those with menthol added, such as Sarna Original Lotion, or Eucerin Skin Calming Lotion.

If cortisone products are prescribed, use only on the affected skin areas.  These are usually applied twice daily. 
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