I get very dry, itchy skin in the winter. what are some good ways to alleviate it and what should i look for in a lotion or moisturizer?

Dry skin: if symptoms are really bothersome you may want to see a dermatologist, meanwhile, try some skin care techniques: as bathing with cream soap, moisturize your skin right after, no special moisturizer, any good one can do, the idea is to trap the moisture right after hydrating your skin, hydrate you body well, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, occasional antihistamine might help too, good luck