The cold winter months are stressful enough with Holiday shopping and increased heating bills, but 'tis the season for dry, itchy skin as well. Even here in Central Texas where temperatures tend to be well above those in many other areas, dry air inside and outside can cause problems for your skin.

"Winter months are so difficult on your skin because of the dry air that you are exposed to each day," says Jason S. Reichenberg, M.D., a dermatologist in private practice who also serves as Director of Dermatology for the University of Texas Medical Branch in Austin. "Both the cold weather outside and the heating furnace inside can remove moisture from the air, which in turn draws moisture out of your skin. Even my patients with oily skin need to change their skin care practices during the winter months."

Dr. Reichenberg has some tips that will help your skin avoid the winter blues:

• Put moisture back in the air in your house by purchasing a humidifier. Make sure that it is the appropriate size for the space it's in; most people need a separate humidifier for the living/dining room and each bedroom. If your home has central air with a humidity control, try to set it a few points higher.
• Avoid long, hot baths-they remove the natural oils and moisturizers from your skin. Instead, take a brief, luke-warm shower. Briefly pat dry, don't rub your skin vigorously.
• Immediately after bathing, apply a thick moisturizer to your entire body. Make sure that you're standing on a carpet or rug so you don't slip and fall.
• Many of my patients who use a light moisturizing lotion during the summer and fall need to switch to a thicker moisturizing cream when it starts getting cold. Some of my suggestions include Vanicream, Eucerin cream, Aveeno cream, or Cetaphil cream.
• For very dry or thick skin, use an oil-based ointment such as petrolatum or Aquaphor.
• Throughout the day, try to avoid washing your hands with harsh soaps that remove your skin's natural oils. Instead, wear gloves to keep your hands clean, or use a soap-free cleanser such as Cetaphil, Dove, Purpose, or Free and Clear cleanser. Once again, it's important to moisturize your hands after washing them, preferably with a thick moisturizing cream. If necessary, bring in your own hand cleanser and moisturizer so you know exactly what you're using on your skin.
• If your skin is becoming very itchy, red, or uncomfortable, you may have an allergy to something in the environment, or you may have developed eczema or another skin conditions. Speaking to a Dermatologist may be the best way to find out what's going on.

Dr. Reichenberg has an office in downtown Austin and treats adults and children of all ages.

Dr Jason S. Reichenberg, M.D.

Dermatology Associates

Director of Dermatology, University of Texas Medical Branch in Austin.