One of the most uncomfortable, yet annoying health problems during the winter season is dry skin. There are many different kinds of dry skin problems and many ways to cure it.

According to beauty.about.com, “In winter, low temperatures, low humidity and strong, harsh winds deplete skin of its natural lipid layer, which keeps the skin from drying out.”

At a time in the cold winter when it is most common flakiness and cracking of the skin may occur, causing your skin to painfully tighten. Skin may also become itchy, as well as dull and red looking.

Dry skin can be caused by simple things, such as rough spots, uncomfortable or itchy clothing, the misuse of moisturizer, not drinking enough water, malnutrition and taking long, hot showers, as well as many medical conditions.

There are many reasons skin needs to be kept healthy and be treated when dry.

One reason is so bacteria is kept out of the body, since your skin is your body’s main defense system against infection. It is also good for a persons well being to keep skin healthy for appearances.

Another reason to treat dry skin, is to keep skin clear, according to ezinearticles.com, “When the skin is dry and dehydrated, dead skin cells remain on the skin which may block pores and promote acne, zits, blemishes, or other breakouts; drink plenty of pure water.”

So, it’s like a chain reaction, if you have dry skin, you could also break out; and just because it’s not summer, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be hydrating just as much as in the winter time.

The reason why dry skin is more common in the winter time than the summer, is because its colder and you don’t get as much vitamin D, as you would from the sunshine. According to ehow.com, “Some dermatological conditions require medical treatment to control.”

All that has to be done is bathe, but every other day (because your body’s natural resources will be washed way), but never a hot bath or for more than 15 minutes, in order to renew skin with moisture.

Skin should be “pat” dried, then moisturize skin by applying baby oil, or even petroleum jelly (these things should not have to be expensive).

One of the most important things a person can do for themself and their skin is get enough sleep, this will allow the body to repair and regenerate its skin cells, if not this will cause not only dry, but dull skin.

Stay away from soaps that are high in lye content, and use body washes such as Dove, Neutrogena, or Avenue which have a higher fat content, compared to the amount of lye content. If dry skin if severe enough, or to prevent, or just want baby soft skin you should make sure you have a balanced diet that includes foods high in vitamins A and B, which are found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Also avoid sugars and beverages high on caffeine, which is a diuretic, causing your skin to dehydrate. You may want to also turn the heat down in your home, adding some humidity to the dry air, which helps dry skin. And of course don’t forget to moisturize!