1. Re-think your shower
Nothing feels better on a cold day than a long, hot shower. But hot showers can lead to dry skin by stripping your skin of its natural protective oils. your skin will be much better-served with a short 5 to 10 minute lukewarm shower. You should also avoid using excessively hot water when washing your hands — if the water causes your skin to turn red, it’s too hot. Washing your hands in cooler water appears to be as effective at removing germs as warm water and is less irritating to skin, according to the Centers for Disease Control. And if you're using a restroom air hand-dryer, use it just until your hands are damp rather than perfectly dry. Always use a gentle soap, body wash and cleanser.
2. Modify Your Facial Skin-Care Regimen for the Season
During the winter months, choose cream-based moisturizers, and cut back on using toners and astringents. Many contain alcohol, which can further dry your skin. At night, use a richer moisturizer on your face. And don’t forget your lips. Applying a moisturizing balm/salve can help heal dry, cracked lips and keep them from getting chapped
3. Moisturize Frequently, Especially Your Hands
Maintain healthy skin by moisturizing after washing up. Using a thick cream in the winter, lotions are better in warmer, humid climates. And don't forget your hands. Hand-washing, as the CDC notes, is vital, especially during cold and flu season. But, constant washing will cause the hands to take a serious beating. Applying a hand cream after each washing can help as well as wearing waterproof gloves when washing dishes or cleaning around the house.
4. Use SPF daily
On bright winter days, snow reflects the sun’s rays — up to 80 percent, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation — increasing your risk of exposure. That means whether you’re out on the slopes, playing in the snow, or just walking through a parking lot running errands. it’s just as important to be applying a good full spectrum sunscreen or sunblock in the harsh winter weather as it is in the summer.
Even on darker, dreary days in winter, the sun’s harmful UV rays can permeate clouds and still cause damage.
Before you go outside, apply a moisturizing, broad-spectrum sunscreen or sunblock to all exposed areas of your body.
5. Consider a humidifier
Using a humidifier in your home or office will add moisture to dry winter air and help keep your skin hydrated. Run a humidifier in the rooms you spend the most time in, including your bedroom.
Other things to note . . .
Wear Appropriate, Comfortable, Nonirritating Clothing
Many cold-weather fabrics can aggravate dry winter skin. Keep wool and rough clothing from directly touching your skin. This can cause dry skin to get irritated and itchy.
Try wearing light layers made from soft, breathable materials directly against your skin, and then pull on your heavier, warmer sweaters. Be sure to protect your hands from cold winter air with gloves or mittens, remembering to choose a pair that won’t irritate your skin. If you prefer wool gloves, put on cotton glove liners first.
Change Out of Wet Clothes Quickly to Avoid Itchy Skin
Wearing wet clothes and shoes can further irritate your skin and cause itchiness. If gloves, socks, and pants become wet, be sure to remove them as soon as possible. Use a cream base moisturizer.