Rough skin could be caused due to a number of possible reasons such as cold weather, contact with irritating or coarse fabric, or a deficiency of certain vitamins. The main areas that are prone to dryness include the hands, heels, face, and upper arms.

Here are a few tips that will help your skin become supple and smooth.

* Avoid taking a bath with water that is extremely hot or cold as this can cause your skin to dehydrate. Use warm water. Adjust the temperature of the water so that it is around 115 °F.

* Mild body soap should be used. Harsh soaps generally dry up your skin and cause patchy skin. This mainly happens in dry climates. The best option is to use gels or liquid soap which is gentle on your skin as compared to a bar soap. Avoid over-lathering your skin as this could again take away essential oils from your body.

* Bathing too frequently may cause irritated patches and dry your skin. Avoid bathing two or three times a day and do not spend too much time in the shower or bath.

* Check if it is the clothes you are wearing that are responsible for your skin’s roughness. Sometimes woolen scarves may irritate your face, or wearing a wet bathing suit for long hours during summer could rub your skin raw.

* Make sure you take your vitamins on time. Your daily diet should have all the necessary vitamins you need. Vitamin C is extremely beneficial for your skin, so make sure you increase your intake of dark leafy and deep orange vegetables. Check with your doctor as to what vitamins you need and in what dosages you need to take them.