It can be tempting during the winter months to throw on a large jumper, a pair of thick tights and forget about the flakiness going on underneath. But, by not treating your dry patches now, it can lead to irritation and soreness in the long term.  

However, do not fear there are simple changes you can make that will improve the condition of your skin and help combat the dryness.

Avoid long hot baths and showers

As the temperature plummets nothing feels as tempting as a long, hot bath. But, before you soak away the day you might find it is the cause of your dry skin. Yep, using hot water for longer than 5 – to 10 minutes in either the bath or shower can actually cause your skin damage – particularly in the winter months.

If you can’t give up your nightly soak then ditch the bubbles that can contain drying ingredients like SLF, and instead add a bath oil that will moisturise the skin. Try Neal’s Yard Remedies Soothing Bath Oil, £12, which is full of soothing almond and sunflower oil.  

Up your moisturising regime

This is not the time to skip on moisturiser, instead up the amount and apply twice a day – ideally when skin is still damp. This will lock in the moisture and keep it hydrated throughout the day. When you’re picking a product look for ingredients like shea butter as it is super-moisturising – L’Occitane Shea Butter Rich Lotion, £26. If you prefer an oil, then Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil, £18.50.

It’s time to exfoliate

Already feeling the flake? To add moisture back into your bod you need to get rid of all the dead skin sitting on the surface. The best way is by using a body scrub like Elemis Frangipani Monoi Salt Glow, £42. Apply to dry skin before getting into the shower or bath, massage in circular motions and then rinse away.