Why do we suffer from dry, flaky skin during the winter months? You aren't the only one. Actually, 1 out of every 5 people suffer from dry, sensitive skin. There are many reasons, including low humidity, central heating, effects of UVA radiation, photodamage, cold temperatures and scalding hot showers and baths. Perhaps the most important reason for increased dry skin in the winter is that the air itself is also drier. In some places, a typical winter day has only about 25% as much humidity as a summer day. And you won't find reprieve inside. The air inside is equally dry. For this reason, it is important to take the steps necessary to protect your skin from the harsh effects of the winter air. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep your skin healthy and glowing when the temperatures drop.

Tip 1: Bypass Baths

A hot bubble bath can be tempting, but it can also drain your skin of valuable moisture. If you aren't willing to give up your steamy bath, lower the temperature and add oatmeal to the water. Oatmeal is soothing to the skin and helps bind moisture to the skin as it exfoliates.

Tip 2: Oils and Milk Bath

We don't deny the benefits of a relaxing bath on a cold winter's night. You already know that your skin will benefit from turning down the temperature of the water a bit, but here is an easy way to make that bath even more therapeutic. Once a week, add 2 cups of powdered milk, half a tablespoon of an essential oil (almond, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus) and a few drops of your favorite perfume to your bath water. The milk and essential oils will hydrate your chapped skin. Just remember to add a skin moisturizer to your skin while it is still a little wet.

Tip 3: Be Careful of What Type of Soap you Use

A lot of brand-name soaps have lye, which is great for scrubbing your skin clean, but not so good for replacing the moisture that your skin has lost. Soaps with high levels of fatty substances like coconut butter or coconut oil will moisturize your skin by replacing lost moisture and nutrients. Your skin won't miss the lye; it will be equally as clean and much softer and healthier.

Tip for Sensitive Skin

Tip 4: Reduce the temperature

Of course, we can't control Mother Nature. But we do have control over the temperature in our houses. Artificially heated air is dry and harmful to your skin. Here is a quick comparison to give you an idea. The average humidity level in the Sahara Desert is about 25%. Some homes get as low as 10% humidity level during the winter months. Every temperature less on your thermostat means more moisture in the air and fresher, healthier skin.

Tip 5: Embrace Humidity

A good humidifier will help cancel out the dry air produced by furnaces during the winter. Furnaces act as air dryers and leave your skin red, irritated, and flaky. Place the humidifier in a frequently used place of your home, like the living room or bedroom, and you will feel the beneficial effects. Even leaving the door open while you shower can help replace lost humidity in the air. Avoid sensitive skin, allergy rash, and even eczema by using a humidifier to replace lost moisture in your home.

Tip 6: Don't Underestimate the Moisturizer!

As obvious as it seems, many people do not moisturize as often as needed to keep their skin soft and healthy. A good, natural skin care product can do wonders for your dry, sensitive skin. It is recommended to use a skin moisturizer 3 or 4 times daily. Apply moisturizer in the morning and before bed as well as any time you wash your face or feel that your skin could use a little freshening up. It is always a good idea to use moisturizer after a shower or bath because the moisturizer will help your skin bind to the moisture in the water.