How to Deal With The Winter Itch?

Cold weather wreaks havoc on your skin, making it dry and flaky.  Dry skin is not due to a lack of oil but a lack of water.  As skin dries out it can cause itchiness, resulting in a condition called "Winter Itch."

According to Dr. Diane Berson, a dermatologist at the Iris Cantor Women's health center of New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center. The best thing you can do to relieve the itch is to moisturize your skin because, unfortunately you can't do anything about the weather.

Scientific studies and case reports show that one of the best natural moisturizers is the gel from the popular Aloe vera plant.  Used regularly, it helps relieve flaking and itching from dry skin.

And according to leading Aloe vera researcher, Dr. Ivan Danhof, Aloe gel helps your skin absorb moisture faster. In fact, Aloe vera increases the moisture absorption rate of the skin by three to four times compared to water.

In addition, Aloe vera gel has anti-bacterial properties.  One study found that Aloe vera applied topically three times a day can clear up a stubborn serious skin condition known as plaque-type psoriasis.  And with continued use there were no relapses.

When purchasing an Aloe Vera product, find out the actual percent of Aloe vera in the product.  Many marketers sell products with only a miniscule amount of Aloe Vera and use a phrase such as "made with 100% aloe" on the label.

In addition to moisturizing your skin with Aloe vera, the following steps can provide relief from dry and itchy winter skin:

1. Moisturize Daily
2.Cleanse your skin, but don't over due it
3. Limit the use of hot water and soap
4. Humidify
5. Protect yourself from the wind
6. Avoid extreme cold
7. Protect your skin from the sun
8. Exercise