UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-STOUT
STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES
103 1st Avenue W Menomonie, WI 54751
715/232-1314
715-232-2103-FAX
Tips for Battling Dry Skin
Cold, dry winter air can cause dry, itchy, uncomfortable skin. Preventing dry skin
requires consistent and determined skin care. Here are few recommendations to prevent
dry skin:
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Take fewer baths and showers. Keep baths or showers short. If possible, bathe
rather than shower, Use warm (not hot) water.
Use super-fatted, mild soaps such as Dove, Basis or Eucerin. Limit soap to areas
that develop odors.
Avoid vigorous rubbing with the washcloth or towel. Pat yourself dry.
Apply a moisturizer within three (3) minutes of getting out of the shower or tub.
Lotions are not as effective at moisturizing as are ointments or creams.
Keep your house as cool as you can tolerate. A humidifier may be beneficial.
Avoid fabric softeners and use scent-free detergents.
At bedtime, apply a cream or ointment to hands and feet, and cover with socks or
cotton gloves.
Moisturizer recommendations include: petroleum jelly (this is the best),
Aquaphor ointments, Cetaphil or Eucerin creams, Robathol, or Aveeno Bath oils.
Drink plenty of water. Aim for at least eight (8) glasses per day.
SHS-0235
Orig: 10/2005