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Six Ways to Winterize Your Skin

Winter months can be filled with peak seasonal moments, from skiing the slopes to viewing holiday lights in your neighborhood. But winter can also bring a few party fouls along the way.

Cold weather zaps moisture from the skin because humidity drops during winter. People tend to exacerbate the problem by cranking up the heat, taking longer showers or baths, and using hot water. The result is skin that feels dry, chapped, and even itchy.

Dry skin can also lead to health problems because it creates small cracks that allow germs to enter. This can cause unsightly and uncomfortable skin conditions like eczema and other rashes.

"Dry skin and eczema tend to flare up with the dry weather," says Erika Summers, MD, a dermatologist at University of Utah Health.

Here are six ways to improve your skin during winter:

Treatment for Dry Skin

The good news is that prevention and treatment are simple and inexpensive. Treatment for dry skin is specific to the individual and heavily dependent on that person's needs.

You should see a dermatologist if you experience symptoms that go beyond just dry skin. These include inflammation that is seen in eczema or yellowish crusting on the skin, which usually indicates an infection is occurring.