Dry skin occurs more often during the winter months because of low environmental humidity levels. Very dry skin may itch or crack if left untreated. Cracks typically develop on the feet and hands because these areas of the body are in near-constant use. Dry, cracked skin is painful and prone to infection, which makes prevention and early treatment essential.
Daily Care
Restoring your skin's moisture level will help heal dry, cracked skin. Drink at least 64 ounces of water every day to hydrate your skin from the inside out. Use a humidifier, either a portable unit or one attached directly to your furnace, during dry months to add moisture to your home, and avoid taking long, hot showers, as these can worsen dry skin, according to the New Zealand Dermatological Society. Instead, keep showers lukewarm and under 15 minutes, and avoid using harsh soaps when washing.
Moisturize
The website ePodiatry recommends increasing the moisture level of your skin by applying an oil-based moisturizing ointment every morning, after bathing and again before going to sleep at night. Alternatively, you can use cooking oil, such as safflower or olive oil, to moisturize dry, cracked skin. Severely dry skin can benefit from an application of petroleum jelly before bed. The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests applying the jelly and then covering with socks or gloves to prevent it from rubbing off during the night.
Remove Calluses and Dead Skin
Calluses are prone to cracking and they prevent moisturizers from penetrating into deeper layers of your skin. Use a wet pumice stone as needed to rub away layers of thick, hardened skin. ePodiatry warns against using a knife or other sharp instrument to cut away calluses. Doing so can cause potentially serious tissue infections. Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and flaking skin. Use a commercial product, or make your own exfoliant scrub by mixing course sea salt with a few drops of oil. Massage the scrub into your wet skin after showering. Rinse well because salt is drying.
Other Home Remedies
GrannyMed online recommends mashing an avocado and spreading it into dry areas. Avocado is high in fat and vitamins A, D and E, and can help moisturize dry, cracked skin. Applying aloe vera or chamomile to dry areas will also help heal dry skin. Soaking in baking soda or vinegar can relieve itching associated with dryness, and adding colloidal oatmeal to your bathwater will soothe the itching associated with dryness and cracking. You can also use colloidal oatmeal in place of traditional soap when showering, according to "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies." The book recommends putting some of the oatmeal in a handkerchief, tying it up and using it wet like a washcloth.
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