Do You Have any Suggestions that Might Help with My Problem Itch?

QUESTION: It probably is associated with the seasons, because it happens each
year at the same time, but I develop a terrible itch throughout my body that
is often more than I can bear. I've tried a number of antihistamines with
little success. Do you have any suggestions that might help?
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ANSWER: Your description, the time of the year and, incidentally, your
postmark all help me to determine that you are probably suffering from the
effects that cold winter weather may inflict on your skin. The colder air of
winter fails to hold the amount of humidity or moisture that the warmer
breezes do, and as a result our skin literally "dries out", becoming itchy as
a result, and often making our fingertips crack and our lips chap. If, in
addition, your sweat glands are a bit less active, or your body oils are
decreased due to your own body chemistry or advancing years, your
susceptibility to this annoyance is increased. The problem may run in
families, particularly where there is a history of allergies, asthma and skin
problems. It may be aggravated by a commonly used remedy for aches and pains
that come on with cold weather, soaking hands and feet in warming baths or
tubs. This extracts the oils in the skin even more, as can over frequent
bathing and washing, and the use of too much soap. When winter skin dryness
strikes, there are a number of ways you can help yourself, but antihistamines
is not one of them. Try to limit your washing and bathing, and switch to a
mild soap, one with low alkaline content that may contain oil or skin
moisturizers. Use specifically prepared skin moisturizers and lotions after
bathing. The over-the-counter products do just fine. Protect damaged skin
from additional exposure; use moisturizers to treat chapped lips. If winters
truly get to you beyond your ability to endure, and your life style and
circumstances permit, you might consider spending this time of the year in
climates that are more considerate of your skin.