University of Iowa Health Science Relations and
Mary Stone, MD
Associate Professor of Dermatology and Pathology
First Published: November 2000
Last Revised: August 2003
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

Winter brings snow, cold temperatures and, for some people, the "winter itch." "Dry skin, or winter itch, occurs when the top layer of your skin loses moisture," says Dr . Mary Stone, associate professor of dermatology and pathology at the University of Iowa College of Medicine and staff physician at UI Hospitals and Clinics.

"The water in the top layer of your skin evaporates more rapidly during the winter because the air is drier," she explains. "You can put moisture into the air by using a humidifier. Or open the bathroom door when showering or bathing. More moisture in the air means moisture will evaporate more slowly from your skin."

As skin becomes dry it may also become itchy, and microscopic cracks can develop in the top skin layer, Stone says. "Treat dry skin with a moisturizer that contains lipids--oils--like petroleum jelly."

Stone suggests checking the label of the lotion bottle. If one of the main ingredients is water--and it's the main ingredient in most lotions--try to find one with oil listed as a major ingredient.

"If you use a thin water-based lotion, your skin will feel better for a while, but the water will eventually evaporate, and you haven't gained much. Creams and ointments usually are more effective than lotions," she suggests.

Winter air can chap the skin of children and adults, which can lead to winter itch. "Prevent chapping by wearing hats, gloves, and scarves to cover your skin," Stone says. When washing dishes or cleaning, wear cotton gloves inside rubber gloves if you're using hot water and soap. "The combination of soap and hot water can quickly dry your skin," Stone says. "Whether you take a shower or a bath, the hot water and soap can dry your skin, too.

"Avoid using very hot water, use as little soap as you can manage--or use a soap-free cleanser--and use a moisturizing cream on your skin immediately after showering or bathing." If your skin is itchy, avoid using alcohol, calamine lotion or powder--because all three tend to dry your skin, she says. You can use a cortisone product--Stone recommends the ointments rather than the creams, because they help hold moisture in the skin--to alleviate itching. "But the most important treatment is to keep the skin moisturized," Stone adds.

If your skin becomes red, hot, or weepy, see your physician. "These are signs of a possible infection, and you need more intensive treatment," Stone says. "If you have dry skin all year long, you may have an underlying medical problem for which you need to see your family physician or a dermatologist."

For more information about dry skin, talk to your physician.