Helpful tips for skin care in winter

(NAPSI)For many, cold weather can mean dry, irritated skin. In fact, its estimated that almost 20 percent of people in the U.S. suffer from severely dry skin or eczemaa general term that refers to skin that is inflamed, swollen and irritated. Red, itchy, irritated skin that doesnt properly retain moisture is a common symptom of eczema. Fortunately, there are ways to help prevent eczema and treat it when it flares up.

Treat it gently Its important to keep skin hydrated, especially when the temperatures cool down, and one of the easiest ways is to choose a rich yet gentle body moisturizer. Look for products containing urea and lactic acid, as well as ceramides or shea butter, says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in the Dermatology Department at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in NYC. Expensive does not always mean better, and you can find an effective moisturizer in your local drugstore. For example, Cetaphil Restoraderm Skin Restoring Moisturizer is clinically proven to provide long-lasting hydration by helping repair the skins natural barrier function.

Help your hands (and feet) Frequent hand washing and use of antibacterial gels during flu season may prevent a cold but can cause dryness and irritation to skin, so try to moisturize each time after you wash.

Cool it with hot water Nothing feels better than a superhot shower on a cold day, but it can actually harm the skin, stripping it of essential oils and leading to skin dryness. Stick to cool or lukewarm showers or baths and soak for only 10 minutes or less to avoid damaging the skin. Also, choose a hydrating body wash, such as Cetaphil Restoraderm Skin Restoring Body Wash, which uses advanced technologies to help restore the skin barrier function and retain moisture. Patdont rubdry with a soft towel.

Seek professional advice If your skin isnt improving, it might be time to see a dermatologist. A doctor can prescribe prescription anti-inflammatory creams to complement your daily cleansing and moisturizing routine, says Dr. Zeichner.

Invest in a humidifier Dry heat from heaters in your home can wreak havoc on your skin. Opt for a humidifier to help add moisture to the skin by replacing moisture to the air.

Dont forget about the sun Even though it is cold outside, the suns rays can still cause sunburn in the winter. Be careful in the snow because UV rays can reflect off the white surface and burn unprotected skin. Look for a facial moisturizer with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your face and neck daily, suggests Zeichner. For more information, visit http://www.cetaphil.com.

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Helpful tips for skin care in winter