As winter’s chilly embrace envelops the area, so does a flurry of skin issues.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) notes one of the most common conditions affecting people of all ages is dry skin. It is also known as xerosis, and the season’s cold air and indoor heating are just a couple of the culprits stripping the skin of its natural moisture.
“We often see a significant increase in patients complaining of dry skin during the winter, and it can lead to discomfort and various skin problems,” said Katie Boerst, ThedaCare nurse practitioner.
Several factors contribute to dry skin during the winter.
Cold outdoor air combined with indoor heating systems can drastically reduce the humidity levels in your home. This dry environment can cause moisture to evaporate from your skin, leading to dryness.
While a hot shower may be tempting on a cold winter morning, it can actually strip your skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness.
Using harsh, perfumed soaps or overusing soap can damage the skin’s protective barrier, making it more prone to dryness.
Neglecting to moisturize regularly can leave your skin without the protective barrier it needs to retain moisture.
The cold, dry wind can further deplete the skin’s natural oils and lead to increased dryness and irritation.
Prevention is often the best strategy to combat dry skin.
“To maintain healthy skin, it’s essential to be proactive with it,” said Boerst. “Start by adapting your skincare routine to the season.”
Here are some additional tips:
• A humidifier can help maintain an optimal level of humidity in the air, preventing your skin from drying out.
• Instead of hot showers, opt for lukewarm water, which is less likely to strip your skin of essential oils.
• Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to avoid damaging your skin’s protective barrier.
• Apply a rich, hypoallergenic moisturizer immediately after bathing or showering to lock in moisture. Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides or glycerin, which can help repair the skin’s natural barrier, often compromised with dry skin.
• Staying hydrated from the inside out is crucial. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help maintain your skin’s moisture balance.
• Wear clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics, like cotton and silk. These materials are less likely to irritate your skin.
• When going outside, wear gloves, scarves, and hats to shield your skin from the cold wind and reduce moisture loss.
In most cases, dry skin can be effectively managed with home remedies, However, there might come a time when you need professional attention.
“If you experience severe itching, cracking, fissuring or inflammation of the skin that doesn’t improve with at-home treatments, you might have an underlying skin condition, like eczema or psoriasis, and you may need prescription medications to find relief,” Boerst said. “Healthy, moisturized skin is essential for your overall well-being, so make it a priority during the winter months.”
With winter comes increased chances of skin drying out
