The lack of moisture in wintertime air can result in dry, flaky, or chapped skin. Lower humidity levels cause the water content of the skin to dry out faster, which is why dry skin is often a more widespread problem during the colder months of the year. To take the best possible care of your skin this winter, and to avoid the need for a dermatology prescription, below are some cold-weather dry skin do’s and don'ts.

Do:

Apply moisturizer.

Moisturizers trap and hold water and oils in the skin. During the winter, moisturize well on a daily basis. There are a variety of moisturizing lotions on the market today, so it's easy to find one for your skin type, budget, and scent preference.

Wear gloves.

The hands are especially sensitive to dry skin in the winter. This is largely because people always remember coats and pants and hats and shoes, but gloves? Not always. Get in the habit of wearing gloves regardless of how little or how often you'll be outside this winter.

Don't:

Take long, hot showers.

It can feel heavenly to slip into a hot shower or steamy bath after a cold day. But long exposure to hot water only dries out the skin even more. Lengthy, daily hot showers can also make you more vulnerable to eczema, a serious dry skin condition that usually requires a dermatology prescription.

Ignore dry skin that won't go away.

If you have dry skin that isn't eradicated by moisturizer use, you might need a more heavy-duty medicated cream. Always see a doctor for dry skin that hasn't gone away within a few weeks. A doctor can also check you for more concerning dry skin issues; in addition to eczema, other possibilities include psoriasis and rosacea, all of which require a dermatology prescription to effectively treat.

By taking care of dry skin this winter, your skin will take care of you. When you need a dermatology prescription filled, trust Gates Pharmacy. For nearly 30 years, they have been providing prescriptions, refills, vitamins, and medical supplies to the Lorain County, OH, area. To learn more or to fill a prescription online, contact them today by calling (440) 329-7300 or visiting their website.