Dee Anna Glaser, M.D., a SLUCare dermatologist, said the lower temperatures and low humidity in the winter dry skin out faster than the warm summer weather.

"People think that because they are spending less time outdoors they do not have to worry about their skin," said Glaser, assistant professor in the department of dermatology. "But the cold weather, coupled with strong winds, can be very tough on your skin."

Glaser also said that many people experience sun damage during the winter months. She offers some tips to help prevent dry skin.

• Use moisturizing soap during winter. It is not as harsh as anti-bacterial soap.
• Hot showers can strip the body of its natural oils. Glaser recommends that most people take only one bath or shower a day.
• Sunscreen and sunblock should be worn in the winter on the parts of the body exposed to sunlight, such as the face, neck and hands.
• Use moisturizer on the skin. The best type of body lotion is one that is not easily washed off.
• Apply lotion directly on cuticles. Due to the dryness of the skin, cuticles around the nails can dry out and crack. Avoid cutting or damaging the cuticles.
• Avoid wool on skin that has a rash or is inflamed. Wool worn close to the body or directly on the body can irritate existing skin problems. Cotton or silk can be used to line wool clothing or be worn as an undergarment.
• Don't forget that dry, cold weather tends to cause split ends, dryness and itchiness to the scalp too. If a medicated shampoo is used, Glaser suggested leaving the shampoo on the scalp for a few minutes longer than usual. This will give the active ingredient in the shampoo a better chance to help the hair and scalp. Extra conditioner may help, and avoid excessive curling or permanents to the hair.