Do you suffer from dry, itchy skin? You aren't the only one. Up to 1 in 5 people report having winter skin. There are many reasons, including low humidity, central heating, effects of UVA radiation, photodamage, cold temperatures and scalding hot showers and baths. One of the leading causes for increased dry skin during the winter is the decrease in humidity levels in the air. Depending on where you live, there may be 75% less humidity in the air during the winter months. This difference in air moisture carries over when you go inside. The furnace-heated air inside your home may be even more moisture-deprived than the cold air outside. Clearly, winter skin care must be a priority. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep your skin healthy and glowing when the temperatures drop.

Dry Skin Tip 1.

Skip baths. While a hot, steamy bath may be relaxing, it is also moisture draining. If you can't imagine forgoing your bubble baths, turn down the temp a little and try adding ground oatmeal to the water. Not only is oatmeal naturally soothing, it also helps the skin bind moisture.

Dry Skin Tip 2.

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. Just mix a couple cups of powdered milk with almond, lavender, or peppermint oil and a drop or two of your favorite perfume. The milk and essential oils will hydrate your chapped skin. After your bath, apply a skin moisturizer to your skin.

Dry Skin Tip 3.

Blow Dry With Care. Not only does the constant blowing and heat of a hair dryer leave your hair dry and brittle, it also dries your scalp and the skin on your face. Using a hair dryer is like concentrating dry, moisture-deprived air onto your head. Your hair dryer works the same way as your furnace, and it should be turned down. Remember that when air is heated, it loses moisture and leaves your skin dry and sensitive.

What to do about Sensitive Skin in Winter

Dry Skin Tip 4.

Adjust the temperature. As much as we would like to, we can't control freezing cold temperatures outside. We can, however, adjust the temperature on the thermostat in our house. Furnace-heated air is notoriously dry, and dry air is damaging to your skin. Here is a quick comparison to give you an idea. The air in the Sahara Desert has about 25% humidity. Some homes get as low as 10% humidity level during the winter months. Higher temperatures on your thermostat only mean harsher winter skin for you.

Dry Skin Tip 5.

Be Aware of the Soap that You Are Using. Many commercial soups contain lye, and while they work great for deep cleaning, they will irritate already dry skin. Consider changing your soap during the winter months to a brand that contains more fatty substances, such as cold cream, coconut butter, or coconut oil. You won't miss the lye; your skin will be just as clean and much less dry.

Dry Skin Tip 6.

Moisturize! People often underestimate how much moisturizer is necessary to treat dry, winter skin. Using a natural skin care product really goes far in your battle against dry skin. Try to apply a skin moisturizer 3 or 4 times a day. Get in the habit of applying moisturizer in the morning and at night, as well as any time in between that your skin feels irritated. Applying moisturizer right after you bathe or shower will ensure that your skin will absorb moisture from the water.