Colder Weather Brings Dryer, Itchier Skin ~

Tips for avoiding dry, itchy skin:  Avoid long baths or showers (water washes away the natural oils) • Don’t use bath oils (they leave a residue that contributes to itching), and bubble bath products may contain alcohol, perfumes or menthol - all potential irritants • Keep water lukewarm (hot may dry the skin) • Use soap (sparingly) and without deodorants, antiseptics and perfume (can be irritants) • Don’t scrub (no rough washcloths or loofahs), and use a soft towel to blot or pat yourself dry • Use a moisturizer after your bath or shower • Don’t scratch (irritates skin further) • Use sunscreen daily on sun-exposed skin (sun dries skin) • Wear cotton next to your skin or synthetics you know are not irritating (wool is often an itch-promoter), and don’t wear itchy clothing or use an itchy blanket • Use mild, unscented laundry detergent and only recommended amount (try rinsing an extra time). Fabric softeners can be irritating, especially those used in the dryer, which don’t rinse out • Avoid extremes of heat and cold (both can be drying), and maintain a comfortable humidity level in your surroundings (30 to 50 percent and use humidifier if necessary) • Keep thermostat as low as is comfortable in the winter (68° to 72° F); skin will be better off in warm clothing.