Dry skin is one of the most common afflictions this time of year, thanks to cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels, according to Vivian Bucay, M.D., a dermatologist in San Antonio. Fortunately, it's also highly preventable and treatable. Bucay explains how to diminish discomfort—and keep your body’s largest organ hydrated.

The basic facts
One of the skin's main functions is to hold in moisture. It does so through the stratum corneum (the outermost part of the skin's top layer, or epidermis), which is in direct contact with the environment. The epidermis produces lipids, oily substances that limit the passage of water into or out of the skin. Skin that's deficient in lipids can't retain moisture. And with the loss of water, cracks and small cuts develop on the stratum corneum—which can trigger itchiness and introduce bacteria (and even infection) into the skin.

What to look for

• Redness or itchiness Discoloration and the urge to scratch may indicate that your skin isn't properly hydrated.
• Overexposure Areas that are uncovered (such as the face) bear the brunt of moisture-zapping wind, but your arms, legs, and feet are also susceptible to dryness because they have few oil glands to keep them lubricated.
• Advanced age As we get older, our oil glands produce less sebum (oil), which further dries out skin.

Simple solutions

• Clean up quickly It's tempting to take a long, hot bath or shower when it's chilly out, but Bucay recommends keeping tub time down to three minutes and washing with warm, not hot, water to avoid rinsing away skin-protective oils.
• Lather less Cleanse with mild, fragrance-free body and face washes (scents can irritate dry spots). Try Aveda All-Sensitive Cleanser ($21; aveda.com), with skin-soothing vitamin E.
• Moisturize often Apply cream with hydrating ingredients like glycerin and urea, which binds moisture to skin, after showering in the morning and again before bed.

 
EXPERT STRATEGY If you've tried these tips but are still having trouble, check with a dermatologist to make sure you don't have eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, or a more serious condition.
> The bottom line "The easiest way to stave off dryness is to seal water into your skin with cream," says Vivian Bucay, M.D. “If the condition persists, talk to your doctor; she may prescribe Umecta. It contains 40 percent urea and comes in a fast-absorbing mousse so you can dress instantly."