Cold weather leads to itchy skin

The icy cold weather is taking a toll on many Iowans’ bodies — especially the parts that’re exposed to the freezing temperatures. The warm dry air used to warm homes dries the air and our skin.Sharon Townsend, manager of the Mason City-based Mercy Family Healthline, says certain things will help the dry skin problem, but they are a bit unorthodox, such as not taking bath as often.Showering less or taking fewer baths may not be the answer for everyone though. Townsend says there are other alternatives for curing cracked, dry skin, things like revitalizing lotions.She says if the skin starts to itch badly or bleed, consult a doctor.