As winter approaches, so too does the dry and cold weather that can leave your skin feeling tight and itchy. It’s not just the outside temperature that can cause dryness, but also the dry indoor air from heating systems.

If cold weather has your skin feeling parched, don’t despair – there are steps you can take to combat dry skin this winter.

1. Moisturize often

One of the simplest ways to combat dry skin is to moisturize often. Dry skin needs hydration, and the best time to hydrate is immediately after a shower or bath.

During cold weather, avoid long, hot showers that can strip your skin of its natural oils and instead opt for shorter, lukewarm showers. When you’re done, pat your skin dry and immediately apply a moisturizer to help lock in moisture.

2. Keep skin covered

Cold winds and temperatures can cause skin to lose moisture quickly. If you’re going outside, be sure to cover your skin as much as possible. Gloves, hats, and scarves can help protect your hands, ears, and neck from the harsh elements.

3. Use a humidifier

Indoor heating systems can dry out the air and leave your skin feeling tight and itchy. To combat dry skin indoors, consider using a humidifier. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help keep your skin hydrated and feeling comfortable.

4. Choose the right clothes

Wool and other rough fabrics can irritate dry skin, so it’s important to choose clothing that won’t further exacerbate the problem. Look for soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or silk that won’t scratch or irritate your skin.

5. Drink plenty of water

Drinking plenty of water is important for overall health, but it’s particularly important when it comes to your skin. Staying hydrated can help keep your skin soft and supple, even in the dry cold air of winter.

6. Limit skin exposure to hot water

While a hot shower or bath can feel comforting on a cold day, hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it even drier. Limit your exposure to hot water by taking shorter, lukewarm showers or baths.

7. Exfoliate regularly

Exfoliating regularly can help slough off dead skin and encourage new, healthy skin cells to grow. However, it’s important to be gentle when exfoliating, especially if you have dry skin.

Look for gentle exfoliants and only exfoliate once a week to avoid overly stimulating your skin.

8. Avoid harsh soaps and cleansing agents

Soaps and cleansing agents that contain harsh chemicals can further dry out your skin. To avoid exacerbating dry skin, choose gentle, fragrance-free products that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.

9. Protect your lips

The skin on your lips is particularly delicate and can dry out quickly in cold weather. Keep your lips hydrated with a lip balm or salve that contains ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, or shea butter.

10. Invest in a good skincare routine

Creating and maintaining a good skincare routine can help combat dry skin in any weather. Look for products that are specifically designed to hydrate and nourish dry skin, like thick creams or serums that contain hyaluronic acid or glycerin.