The condition is quite common due to the changing seasons and life would be better if it is dealt with well before the cold takes hold. Moisture, or the lack of it is the culprit and skin health is determined by a balance between moisture, elasticity and acidity, all of which is needed for healthy skin not only during the cold winter months but all year round so we maintain healthy skin all the time. Hot water, though it feels soothing tends to leach out natural oils the skin produces to lubricate itself, coupled with harsh soaps we use and love, they can indeed disrupt the natural balance of skin leading to itch. Read more