Relief for Winter Skin

• When you soak in the tub or take a shower, keep the water warm not hot, below 90 degrees. Add bath oil to the bathwater to retain and replenish the oil in your skin.

• Use soap sparingly. Opt for a mild soap (avoiding antibacterial and deodorant soaps) to use on your face, armpits, genitals, hands and feet.

• Pat skin dry instead of rubbing after a shower or bath.

• Moisturize immediately after drying off, using a thick moisturizing cream. Avoid moisturizers that contain alcohol.

• Use a humidifier to keep indoor air moisture levels at 40 to 50 percent. Also, heat house only to 68 to 75 degrees.

— Mayo Clinic Health Letter