Cooler weather brings cozy layers, but it can also leave your skin feeling dry, tight and unbearably itchy.

When it gets cold outside, and you turn your heat on inside, the humidity in the air lessens. In turn, that pulls the moisture out of your skin, contributing to that itchy, tight feeling.

“Dryness tends to weaken the barrier of our skin and let other irritants in,” says Mae Janiga, a physician assistant at Tidelands Health Family Medicine at The Market Common.

The good news, she says, is that there are several things you can try right away to help.

Your skin may need a heavier moisturizer in the winter months. Look for one that’s fragrance-free, from brands like Cerave or Cetaphil. Ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid can help your skin retain moisture.

When you have the heat running, a humidifier can help replace some of the moisture in the air for at least part of the day or while you sleep.

Hot showers can further dry your skin and extend the irritation. Even if you’re cold, try bathing at a lower temperature.

Laundry soap or body wash that has fragrances and harsh fabrics like wool can further irritate your skin. Try to use gentle cleansers and wear soft clothes in the winter months.

Janiga expects to see more patients with skin irritation as the winter gets colder.

The winter months can cause existing skin conditions — like eczema, psoriasis or keratosis pilaris — to flare up. It’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor about any unusual symptoms.

Specifically, Janiga recommends making an appointment to see a doctor if the itching is so severe it keeps you up at night, or if there’s a rash or cracking on your skin that could predispose you to an infection.