How To: Cures for Winter Itch

Winter itch occurs when skin becomes extraordinarily dry in cold temperatures and with less moisture in the air. Dr. Jeffrey Bernhard, a professor at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, says when the outer skin cells dry out, the edges become sharper and may stimulate the fine itch nerve endings. A person with winter itch may scratch the skin to the point of developing a rash. There are ways, however, to treat winter itch.

Instructions

• 1

  Take a bath. Keep the temperature warm but not hot. If the water is too hot, it can break down the lipid barriers, thus causing moisture loss in the skin, according to WebMD. Add oatmeal or baking soda to relieve the itchy sensation.

• 2

  Use a humidifier. Central heating in the home lowers the humidity in the air, and dry air can cause drier skin. The Mayo Clinic website states humidity levels in the home should be between 30 and 50 percent. Measure your home humidity level with a hygrometer. You may need more than one humidifier if humidity levels are lower than 30 percent in the home.

• 3

  Apply moisturizer to dry, itchy areas. Use an oil-based cream and apply it to the itchy areas several times a day. Apply a glycerin- or hyaluronic-based moisturizer right after bathing to increase the amount of water drawn into your skin. Apply petroleum jelly to areas on the body and the feet.

• 4

  Apply a hydrocortisone cream. Creams available at the drugstore typically contain 1 percent of hydrocortisone, which can help relieve the itching. Apply to the itchy areas, following the instructions.