WINTER ITCH - IT'S A MEDICAL CONDITION

This is not in your head! This condition even has a clinical name: Pruritis Hiemalis.

Who does Winter Itch affect?

Regardless of age or gender, most of us will suffer dry, itchy winter skin. It is more common in older people, particularly those with drier skin.

How can I tell if I have Winter Itch?

If it is Winter Itch:
* It tends to start around Autumn and winter and starts to ease when Spring comes around.
* Usually it is accompanied with visibly dry skin.
* It often gets worse at night and you may notice it more as you get ready for bed.
* It may get worse when you wear certain fabrics.
* There is no visible rash (although after a lot of itching that may change)

What parts of your body does it affect?

Winter itch can affect most of your body but your poor legs tend to fare the worst.  It doesn't tend to affect your hands, feet, scalp or face.

What causes winter itch?

The main causes are the change in temperature, low humidity, wind, dry indoor air, harsh soaps and cold winter weather-sunburn.  These are all things we don't seem to be able to avoid during the colder months but certainly can combat with some simple tricks.

Want to learn how to manage winter itch? Click here to read 10 ways to rescue itchy, winter skin