BOSTON, Feb. 14 (UPI) -- Cracks and fissures of dry skin can invite infection and inflammation, so reach for hand lotion -- any will do -- a U.S. newsletter advises.
The Harvard Health Letter says most moisturizers help with dry skin simply because they supply a little bit of water to the skin and a greasy substance to contain the moisture.
The newsletter advises choosing whichever moisturizer feels and smells best to the user -- the ingredients and fragrances are not as important as remembering to use the lotion.
Other ways to fight dry skin during the winter include:
-- Try to reduce exposure to indoor hot air by turning down the thermostat. Cool air is less dry than hot air. Using a humidifier will help put moisture back in the air.
-- Use warm rather than hot water. Hot water whisks away the fatty substance in the skin that helps it retain water. Make it a warm, not a hot, bath or shower.
-- Limit exposure of skin to windy, very drying outdoor air.
