(NC)-Maintaining proper skin-care habits to prevent dry skin throughout the year can go a long way toward keeping your skin moisturized during the harsh winter months. To avoid developing problems, take steps early.

Although it can happen at any time of the year, dry skin is usually worse during colder periods when the humidity is low. Cold winds can actually 'pull' water from your skin and the air inside your home can get even drier because of the heating system.

Dry skin can be very itchy and your natural reaction is to scratch. But scratching or even rubbing can aggravate the problem. Using a moisturizer like Uremol, which contains urea, a proven effective moisturizing factor and a recognized exfoliating agent to soften the skin, can help take the irritating 'itch' out of skin during cold weather conditions. In fact, these are the reasons why Uremol has become the number one physician recommended treatment for dry skin in Canada.

Many creams and lotions are also available at the pharmacy to effectively hydrate the skin, and most work by sealing in moisture. Petrolatum is a common ingredient found in these treatments. Prevex Cream, for example, provides a total barrier to moisture loss, and is water-resistant. This type of cream is useful for people who must frequently wash their hands or who frequently work in contact with water.