As the cold wind blows outside, we combat it by cranking up our heaters. It feels so nice to be toasty warm when you look outside and see bare trees naked in the bitter cold air.

Unfortunately, that heat makes the air super dry, and it takes a toll on our skin, drying it out. We're left with itchy, incredibly scaly dry skin. You can't help but scratch, which leaves it even more irritated.

See if these tips will help you keep the moisture in your skin:

• Purchase a humidifier if you don't already have one and use it in your bedroom at night. It'll help with a dry throat as well.



• I know there's nothing like a hot shower to warm you up in the winter, but the hotter the water the drier it makes your skin. Try a 15 minute soak in a warm bath instead, using a moisturizing soap like Pre de Provence Shea Butter Soap. Try some essential oils in the water to up the moisturizing potential of your bath.
• If you can't stay away from showering, use warm water, and only wash your face, hands, feet, and between folds of skin. Take short showers, every other day - too much cleansing removes the skin's natural moisturizers.
• Dry yourself off slightly and while your skin is still damp, apply moisturizer all over. Like this Body Time Shea Butter Moisturizer.
• Try turning the thermostat down a little. Keeping your home on the cool side might help.

Hope these tips keep you warm and not too dry.