Preventing and Treating Chapped Skin During Winter

Winter weather can be harsh on your skin, leading to dryness, itching, and chapping. Cold temperatures and low humidity levels can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. In addition, the heat inside your home can further dry out your skin. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent and treat chapped skin during the winter months.

Preventing Chapped Skin

To prevent chapped skin during the winter months, it is important to:

• Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier in your home.
• Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils.
• Apply a moisturizer immediately after showering or washing your hands to lock in moisture.
• Avoid hot showers, which can strip your skin of its natural oils.
• Protect your skin from the cold and wind by wearing gloves, a scarf, and a hat when going outside.
• Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays, even on cloudy days.

Treating Chapped Skin

If you are already experiencing chapped skin, there are several things you can do to treat it:

• Use a thick, creamy moisturizer to hydrate and soothe dry skin.
• Apply a lip balm or ointment to chapped lips to keep them moisturized.
• Avoid picking at or scratching dry, flaky skin, as this can further irritate and damage your skin.
• Take lukewarm, not hot, showers and baths to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils.
• Use a humidifier in your home to add moisture to the air.

When to See a Doctor

If your chapped skin does not improve with home treatment or if you have other symptoms such as fever or a rash, it is important to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Your provider can determine the cause of your chapped skin and recommend the appropriate treatment.

The Importance of Hand Washing in Disease Prevention

Hand washing is a simple, effective way to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. Proper hand hygiene can help prevent the transmission of illnesses such as the common cold, flu, and other respiratory infections. It is also important in preventing the spread of more serious infections, such as hepatitis A and E, and bacterial infections like pneumonia and meningitis.

When to Wash Your Hands

It is important to wash your hands frequently throughout the day, particularly:

• Before, during, and after preparing food
• Before eating
• Before and after caring for someone who is sick
• Before and after treating a cut or wound
• After using the bathroom
• After changing diapers or helping a child use the bathroom
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After touching an animal or animal waste
• After handling garbage

Proper Hand Washing Technique

To properly wash your hands:

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.