What are the causes of extremely dry skin? In this article we'll discuss dry skin and treatments.

Extremely dry skin, which is usually accompanied with itchy flaking and sometimes cracking, has several causes. Extremely dry skin is very manageable given the right resources.

Dry skin in addition to being a cosmetic nuisance poses other problems since extremely dry cracked skin is vulnerable to infection. After all, your skin is your first defense against germs.

Extremely dry skin usually occurs during the winter months when the air is less humid. During this time many people tend to take actions that combat the cold weather, but at the same time zap away moisture from the skin. Long hot showers, using electric blankets, and overheating homes are all causes of extremely dry skin, but all can take care of easily.

If you're a women past menopause you may have noticed that your skin is much drier than before. This is a nature side effect of both the aging process and menopause. Both are potential causes of extremely dry skin since estrogen levels drop during menopause. Estrogen helps to maintain the production of natural skin oils.

Now that you know the causes of extremely dry skin here are several dry skin treatments.

• Take only lukewarm showers and baths - hot water evaporates your skin's moisture.

• Use mild soaps that contain moisturizing ingredients .

• Use a humidifier during the winter when humidity drops below 60%.

• For hands and feet with dry cracked skin, wear gloves and socks after moisturizing them - this will further lock in moisture.

Learn more about dry skin . Also read our tips on how to look younger, deal with age spots, and how to pick the right wrinkle cream.