1. Moisturize with lotion

This one seems obvious, but regularly applying lotion can work wonders. When washing hands, make sure to put on some lotion afterwards—soap contains many ingredients that dry out skin and using lotion will help restore moisture. There are some great lotion options out there, with a variety of prices. Some tried and true lotions that are inexpensive include Cetaphil Daily Advance Lotion and Aveeno Skin Relief. There are also many lotion alternatives, coconut oil, aloe vera, vaseline, and olive oil work great, but these can take time to fully soak into your skin.

      2.   Wear gloves outside

The dry air is what damages skin the most during winter, so wearing gloves or mittens while outside can really help. Another good idea is to invest in some inexpensive lotion gloves. Put on lotion before bed and slip on the gloves to wake up with soft skin.

      3.   Try an olive oil and sugar scrub

For those who love a DIY, a homemade scrub can instantly soften hands and exfoliate.

Ingredients:

• Olive oil: 1-2 tbsp
• Sugar: 1-2 tbsp

Directions: Mix the equal amounts of olive oil and sugar. Now rub this scrub into palms and hands with gentle circular motions for a couple of minutes. Leave the scrub on hands for another couple of minutes. Now wash it off with warm water and pat dry. Apply moisturizer.

      4.   Try an oatmeal honey scrub

This DIY option is another great natural cleanser.

Ingredients:

• Ground oatmeal: 2 tbsp
• Honey: 1 tsp
• Water: as required

Directions: Combine oatmeal and honey. Mix some water to this to get a paste like consistency. Apply this paste onto hands. Leave it for a couple of minutes. Now rub hands gently for about 5-10 minutes. If required, use some water when it gets tough to rub due to dried paste. Now wash off with warm water and pat dry. Apply moisturizer.

      5.   Shower in warm, rather than hot, water

Though easier said than done, try to keep showers from being scalding hot. This severely dries out skin by removing the natural oils in your skin that keep it moisturized. Keeping the water at a warm temperature will help keep these oils on your skin.

Bonus tip: While at school, there are many teachers that regularly have a bottle of lotion for student use. Ask Ms. Baker, Ms. Roschar, Mrs. Leider, Ms. Dominguez, Mrs. LeBlanc, or Mrs. Sauer.