As the weather gets colder and the air gets drier, it’s not uncommon for people to start experiencing skin problems. Dryness, redness, itchiness, flakiness, and even breakouts can all become issues when the temperature starts to drop. If you’re struggling with any of these problems, you’re not alone. If you start experiencing any sort of irritation on your skin during the winter, it’s important to take action right away. Let’s take a look at some of the most common winter skin problems and how to treat them.
Dryness
One of the most common winter skin problems is dryness. When the air is dry, it saps the moisture from your skin, drying it out. This can lead to itching, redness, and even flakiness. The best way to combat dryness is to keep your skin hydrated. First off, drink plenty of water throughout the day. This will lend natural moisture to your skin. Take shorter showers and use gentle soaps. Then, apply moisturizer so that you can keep the moisture in your skin. Choose a moisturizer that is specifically designed for winter weather. These will typically have ingredients like shea butter or glycerin that help to seal in moisture. Also, avoid products with alcohol or fragrances, as these can further dry out your skin. However, if your skin is not too sensitive, you can still use other cosmetic skin products that give off a scent, especially if you want to look special or simply prefer scents. Lastly, look for a moisturizer that is thick and creamy rather than light and watery. This will help to provide more long-term hydration. Some products you can use are Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream, Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion, and CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which range from $12 to $16 per bottle.
However, if your skin is particularly dry or sensitive even while indoors, you might also want to consider using a humidifier in your home or office.
Eczema
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that is characterized by red, inflamed patches of skin. It can be very itchy and can cause a lot of discomfort. It occurs when the top layer of the skin fails to keep out irritants like allergens and germs. The condition is often worse in the winter, when the air is dry and the temperature is low. While it sounds similar to dry skin, it’s actually worse — dry skin happens naturally when moisture is sucked out of the skin by the air, but eczema is genetic. Dry skin can cause eczema to flare up among people who already have it. It also appears patchy, red or gray, and even bumpy. These bumps ooze fluid that form a crust afterwards, resulting in skin that feels thick and looks cracked or scaly.
There are a few things you can do to help relieve the symptoms of eczema during the winter months. Like with dry skin, you should keep your skin hydrated. Drink plenty of water and if possible, use a humidifier. Do not take long showers or use harsh products. Then, regularly apply a moisturizer that is specifically designed for eczema-prone skin, such as Aveeno Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Relief Cream, Vanicream Lite Lotion, and Derma E Eczema Relief Cream. Cetaphil and CeraVe’s moisturizing creams work, too. These are priced from $12 to $20, and they have ingredients like ceramides or shea butter that help to soothe and protect the skin.
Cold Urticaria
Cold urticaria is an abnormal reaction of the skin to cold temperatures. Different people may experience reactions of different severity. Generally, the skin becomes inflamed and itchy, and in some cases, itchy welts or hives may form. The condition is not dangerous, but it can be very uncomfortable. Cold urticaria occurs most frequently in young adults. There is no cure for cold urticaria, but there are treatments available that can help to relieve the symptoms. If you think you have this condition, consult your doctor. Some doctors prescribe antihistamines, but if you do not have a prescription, you can still get over-the-counter products like loratadine and cetirizine. Ultimately, the best way to avoid this is to avoid extremely cold temperatures.
Conclusion:
Winter can be tough on your skin. Dryness, redness, itchiness, flakiness, and even breakouts can all become issues when the temperature starts to drop. But don’t despair! With a little extra care and attention, you can keep your skin healthy and happy all winter long. Be sure to moisturize regularly, drink plenty of water, avoid touching or scratching your face, and see a healthcare provider if you start having any serious problems. We hope this helps you stay fresh this winter!
