If your skin has been exposed to cold, dry winter weather, it can become cracked, dry and itchy. Skin that becomes dry and itchy during cold weather is sometimes called "winter itch." Winter itch is not usually serious, and can be relieved with items from around the house. If your dry, winter skin becomes unbearably painful, itchy or infected, consult a doctor who can use a prescription medication to soothe your symptoms.
Oatmeal
Dermatologist Howard Donsky, M.D., author of "Beauty is Skin Deep," recommends using colloidal oatmeal to help hydrate skin and soothe itchiness. Colloidal oatmeal is store-bought oatmeal that is ground into a fine powder so it can be used in the bathtub without interfering with the draining. If you have good pipes, you can use regular oats in your bathtub or pick them up with a strainer to prevent clogs. Bathe for as long as necessary to soothe the itching, and repeat the process throughout the day for more relief.
Humidifier
The skin becomes dry and itchy in the winter because it is depleted of the moisture and humidity usually present in the air. The Mayo Clinic suggests using a humidifier to help counteract the effects of the dry air on your skin. Humidifiers send water vapor into the air, which is absorbed into your skin. If you don't have a humidifier, run hot water from the shower or bathtub faucet and sit in the bathroom with the door closed for half an hour. The steam from the hot water will absorb into your skin and reduce your urge to scratch.
Baby Oil
For severely dry skin, the Mayo Clinic recommends baby oil to help lock in moisture and keep the skin from becoming itchy. After taking a bath or shower, pat your body dry just barely and leave some water still on the skin. This water will absorb into your skin and keep it moist for a longer period of time. If you don't have baby oil, use petroleum jelly or any other type of oil, like vegetable oil or mineral oil instead. Apply liberally and as often as necessary.
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