Ditch your dry skin

Has your skin been feeling dry after a winter of cold temperatures and low humidity? Although anyone can develop dry skin, the Mayo Clinic says certain factors may increase your risk:

• Being 40 and older
• Living in a dry, cold or low-humidity climate
• Having a job that requires frequent handwashing or immersing hands in water (for example, nurses and salon workers)
• Swimming in chlorinated pools

So, what are some simple ways to ward off dry skin?
Keep it cool: Use lukewarm water – never hot – when showering or bathing.
Moisturize: Use moisturizer that keeps your skin feeling moist – not dry, scaly, flaky or itchy.
Skip deodorant soap: Use mild, nonirritating soaps in place of harsh, drying soaps.
Increase the humidity: Using a humidifier in your bedroom at night can boost and maintain higher humidity levels.
Stay hydrated: Drink water throughout your day.