As cold weather sets in, many people notice changes in their skin’s health and appearance. According to Dr. Megan Lent of U.S. Dermatology Partners in St. Joseph and Chillicothe, MO, “Winter’s combination of chilly temperatures, low humidity, and indoor heating creates the perfect storm for skin issues like dryness and itchiness as well as flareups in chronic conditions like eczema and rosacea. While some of these concerns are easily managed with at-home care alone, others require the expertise of a dermatologist.” In this blog, Dr. Lent explores common cold weather skin issues, how to handle them, and when to seek professional help with your winter skincare routine.
Common Winter Skin Issues
When it comes to winter’s impact on skin health, Dr. Lent says, “Winter weather is notoriously harsh on skin. Numerous factors contribute to this, but the main offenders are exposure to cold air, low humidity, cold winds, and drying indoor heating systems. Together, this leads to dry skin, and weak, damaged protective barriers that leave skin feeling itchy, irritated, and dry.” Below, we outline some of the most common winter skin conditions.
Dry Skin
Dry skin and winter go hand in hand. Understanding the cause, identifying early warning signs, and managing symptoms with appropriate skincare makes a big difference.
- Causes – low humidity, indoor heating, and exposure to cold winds.
- Symptoms – flakiness, tightness, a dull appearance, and sometimes mild itchiness.
- Management:
- Use thick, cream-based moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin.
- Avoid long, hot showers that strip skin’s natural oils and apply moisturizer immediately after bathing to lock in hydration.
Winter Itch
Itchy skin and dry skin are an irritating combo that many people deal with in the winter. This common condition is almost always caused by persistently dry skin that is not well-managed. Following winter itch treatment and management tips leads to improved overall skin health.
- Causes – prolonged dryness can lead to persistent itchiness, which may be exacerbated by wearing heavy, irritating fabrics like wool.
- Symptoms – persistent itching, particularly on areas exposed to dry air or rough fabrics.
- Management:
- Wear layers of clothing made from soft, breathable fabrics.
- Apply over-the-counter anti-itch creams and ointments.
- Use a humidifier to increase moisture indoors.
Eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes red, itchy, irritated skin. While people experience flareups in this condition year-round, increased symptoms of eczema in winter are very common.
- Causes – dry air, cold temperatures, and sudden temperature changes can trigger flareups.
- Symptoms – red, inflamed, itchy patches that may crack or ooze.
- Management:
- Use fragrance-free, gentle moisturizers and cleansers.
- Take lukewarm baths with oatmeal or baking soda to soothe skin irritation.
- Apply prescribed topical treatments if needed.
Rosacea
Rosacea flareups lead to skin that looks red and may feel irritated. For most people, rosacea symptoms develop in the center of the face. These flareups are common during the coldest days, especially when skin is exposed to high winds.
- Causes – cold weather and wind trigger skin redness and rosacea flareups.
- Symptoms – persistent redness, visible blood vessels, flushing, and sometimes acne-like bumps.
- Management:
- Protect your face with scarves and use wind-blocking skincare products.
- Avoid harsh skincare products that exacerbate skin sensitivity.
- Consider laser rosacea therapy for severe cases.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis symptoms are often more pronounced during the cold winter months. Symptom management is essential for those with psoriasis since this condition can become extremely painful, and there is a risk for skin infection when psoriasis isn’t cared for properly.
- Causes – dry skin during winter often worsens symptoms, but surprisingly, reduced sun exposure may be a negative for psoriasis sufferers. UVA and UVB ray exposure slows skin cell turnover, which is beneficial for those with psoriasis.
- Symptoms – thick, scaly patches of skin that cracks or bleeds.
- Management:
- Use medicated creams or ointments prescribed by a doctor.
- Keep skin moisturized with thick, occlusive creams.
- Consider seeking prescription treatments if symptoms are severe or prolonged.
Tips to Manage Winter Skin Issues
Some general tips for keeping skin healthy through the winter season include:
- Hydrate effectively – choose moisturizers rich in deep hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin. Apply moisturizers consistently, especially after washing your face or hands.
- Avoid hot showers – stick to lukewarm water since hot water strips skin’s natural oils. It also helps to keep baths and showers short and apply moisturizer immediately after.
- Use humidifiers – a humidifier maintains moisture levels in your home, combating the drying effects of indoor heating.
- Wear protective clothing – cover skin with gloves, scarves, and hats to protect against harsh winds and freezing temperatures.
- Choose gentle skincare products – avoid harsh cleansers, exfoliants, and alcohol-based skincare products as these may irritate already sensitive skin.
When to See a Dermatologist
While many winter skin issues can be managed at home, some symptoms signal a need for a dermatologist’s help. Consider visiting a board-certified dermatologist if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent dryness – skin that remains dry and flaky despite using moisturizers and at-home remedies consistently for a week or longer.
- Cracked skin – cracks in skin, especially those that show signs of infection like redness, swelling, or discharge, may require dermatologic intervention.
- Severe itching – itching that disrupts sleep or daily activities may indicate an underlying condition like eczema or psoriasis that needs to be addressed in partnership with a dermatologist.
- Worsening rashes or redness – rash symptoms that fail to improve with over-the-counter treatments or worsen should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
- Frequent flareups – chronic skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis that become difficult to manage with typical skincare strategies may require prescription treatments or advanced therapies.
How Dermatologists Help
Dermatologists are equipped to diagnose and treat persistent or severe winter skin issues. Depending on the individual’s needs, dermatologists help patients manage winter skin concerns by providing:
- Accurate diagnoses – identifying underlying causes of persistent dryness, rashes, itching, or other skin health concerns.
- Prescription treatments – topical or oral medications tailored to manage conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. Prescription medications may also be needed to treat persistent or severe skin dryness and itching.
- Advanced therapies – dermatologic solutions like light therapy, laser treatments, or injectable medications may be the best option to get symptoms under control before managing ongoing concerns with at-home care.
- Personalized skincare plans – dermatologists often give recommendations for skincare products and routines to suit your unique needs and keep skin healthy.
Keep Skin Healthy During Every Season
To fight cold weather skin health concerns, Dr. Lent says, “Winter may be challenging, but proactive skincare makes a significant difference. Hydration, using gentle skincare products, and taking proactive measures leads to healthier skin even during the coldest months. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist.”
Schedule a Dermatology Appointment
If you’re struggling with winter skin issues, book a consultation with a knowledgeable dermatologist at U.S. Dermatology Partners today using our simple online form. Their expertise can help you navigate winter skin challenges and develop a personalized plan for healthy, hydrated skin.
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