Harsh winter weather can produce dry, cracked skin. Prevent infections with early dry skin treatments.

You may notice that during winter months skins begins to feel more dry and tighter than during the warmer humid months of summer. The colder less humid air of winter combined with indoor heating contribute to the formation of dry skin. In fact, winter weather can make just about any skin condition worse.

Your skin is your body's first line of defense against illness. When skin becomes extremely dry and cracked it's a window of opportunity for germs and infection. Therefore it's important to start your dry skin treatments early during the winter months to prevent the formation of dry cracked skin.

Now that you know the causes of dry, cracked skin learn to treat it effectively with these dry skin treatments.

Avoid drying out skin with excessively hot water. Lower the temperature of your shower water and try to keep it under 10 minutes. When hot water evaporates it takes away moisture with it. Moisturize as soon as you get out of the shower to lock in remaining moisture.

Dry air, both cold and hot, easily strips moisture from your skin. If the humidity in your house drops below 60% during the winter months think about investing in a humidifier.

Dry, cracked skin requires heavy moisturizers. The creamier the moisturizer the better it will be for your skin. Look on the label for oils and natural emollients which are the best dry skin treatments. Moisturizers which contain acids can also help slough off dull old skin cells - allowing your skin to better absorb moisture.

Vaseline is one of the most affordable and effective dry skin treatments available. For dry cracked skin on your hands and feet apply a thin layer of Vaseline to them before bed. Cover them with soft cotton gloves and socks overnight. In morning, rinse off the Vaseline to reveal softer hands and feet.

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.