5 Tips for Winter Skin
Written by Olivia Abbatiello on January 02, 2020
As we approach the cold winter season in many parts of the country, it’s best to be prepared for the effects changing temperatures can have on the skin. In the wintertime, humidity levels drop and there is less moisture in the air being transferred to the outer layer of skin. Indoors, forced heat can dry out skin very quickly.
The weather conditions combined with indoor heat and everyday activities such as bathing can lead to rough, irritated skin, causing discomfort to those susceptible to dry skin and especially those with burn scars. Unfortunately, the weather is out of our control. But there are ways to combat dry skin in winter. Here are some tips to moisturize skin and stay comfortable in the cold weather.
Shorten daily showers.
Try to keep showers around 5-10 minutes in length. If you typically take baths, try to limit the time for those as well and be sure to lower the temperature. Check with your care team regarding soothing agents that can be used in the bath, such as oatmeal, oils, etc.
Moisturize skin immediately after bathing and throughout the day.
After a shower, the skin is most likely to trap and absorb the most moisture. The best moisturizers are ointments (or oils), then creams and lotions. Moisturize up to four times per day and be sure to focus on trouble areas. For example, if your hands are at their driest during the cold months, moisturize with a thick ointment and sleep in cotton-lined gloves.
Invest in a humidifier for the winter.
The ideal humidity level indoors is around 30%-50%. When utilizing indoor forced heat, the humidity level in the air can drop to 10%. A humidifier can increase the moisture in a room so the skin can retain and trap moisture, making it easier for topical products to do their jobs. Be sure to read instructions for operating and care for the humidifier before use.
Use gentle, unscented skin care products.
In the winter months, skin is more susceptible to dryness caused by fragrances and additives in skin care products. Try not to use scented deodorant or products containing alcohol, fragrance, retinoids, or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs).
Don’t forget the SPF!
Even though the temperature may be dropping, the sun is still giving off rays that could potentially cause damage to the skin. Be sure to continue using SPF on any exposed skin. Invest in a moisturizing sunscreen for the winter months and remember to reapply during extended sun exposure.
References
Can humidifiers help with dry skin? (2014, November 13). Retrieved from Allergy & Air website: https://learn.allergyandair.com/humidifiers-and-dry-skin/
Dermatologists’ top tips for relieving dry skin. Retrieved from American Academy of Dermatology website: https://www.aad.org/skin-care-basics/dermatologists-tips-relieve-dry-skin
Lindley, A. (2003b). What can i do for dry, itchy skin? American Family Physician, 68(6), 1145. Retrieved from: https://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/0915/p1145.html
What to do about dry skin in winter. Retrieved from Harvard Health website: https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/what-to-do-about-dry-skin-in-winter