It’s not very often that we in South Florida experience winter weather. In recent weeks, the air outside has been cold and lacking the normal humidity associated with Florida. This year many of us actually turned on the heat for the first time in a long while, which makes the air dry and can create a perfect environment for chapped skin and cracked lips.

Since many of us have never lived with cold weather conditions, or maybe have forgotten how to deal with these conditions, the doctors at Miramar Dermatology thought it would be a good idea to give you some advice to keep your skin healthy and viverant.

To prevent scaling, flaking and itching, pay special attention to your skin during the cold months by applying a cream-based moisturizer every day. A good time to use moisturizer is just after showering to help trap moisture on the skin's surface. This will aid in keeping your skin moist throughout the day.

We all know that washing hands often is imperative in the prevention of the spread of germs; however, all of that soap and water can make your hands chapped. You should consider using a mild soap and moisturizing afterwards to relieve the dryness.

When it’s cold nothing feels better than a hot shower or bath, however water that is too hot can actually do more damage to the skin than good. Short showers or baths with lukewarm water and a non-irritating, non-detergent-based cleanser are easier on the skin. Immediately afterward, apply a mineral oil or petroleum jelly-type moisturizer and gently pat skin dry.

A humidifier can help to deal with dry air from heaters; this will add some moisture back into the air. Don’t forget to clean your humidifier often to prevent mold and fungus.

The doctors at Miramar Dermatology want you to remember that scaling, itching or cracked skin that is not relieved by moisturizers should be checked by a dermatologist, who may suggest a prescription medication.