Dry skin is more common in the winter . The changes in humidity and temperature at this time of the year can irritate the skin.
Dry skin can affect many people during the winter, and the severity of the symptoms can vary significantly. Various treatments can replenish the moisture of the skin and relieve the symptoms. People can also take certain steps to prevent the skin from becoming dry.
Lets explore more about dry skin, it’s causes and prevention.
Symptoms of winter dry skin
Dryness that results from damage to the skin barrier during winter can lead to:
- flaking
- rough patches
- cracks
- redness, in lighter skin tones
- itching
- stinging
- a raw, sensitive-to-the-touch feeling
People may experience several of these symptoms at the same time. The right treatment should reduce their severity.
Complications That May Occur Due To Dry Skin
Dry or cracking skin is usually harmless, however, in some cases, failure to attend to it may lead to eczema (atopic dermatitis) or infections. If you are prone to eczema, dehydrated skin may trigger the condition, causing inflammation, cracking and redness. Moreover, bacteria could enter cracks in the skin and lead to infections.
Preventing winter dry skin
When the seasons start to change, people can avoid getting dry winter skin by taking the following steps:
- Adjusting skin care regimens: Skin requires different treatment during colder weather, including the use of a more protective moisturizer. Cutting back on exfoliating scrubs, face masks, and steam treatments will also reduce damage to the skin barrier.
- Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water boosts skin hydration, which helps it stay smooth. Eating foods or taking supplements that contain omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids might also help.
- Using a humidifier: This device can introduce moisture back into the air, helping rehydrate the outer layer of skin. Alternatively, a person can place a bowl of water on top of a radiator so that as the heat rises, it carries water vapor along with it.
- Limiting exposure to heat: People can do this by taking a lukewarm bath or shower rather than a hot one and avoiding sitting in front of a fire or heater. Excessive heat can draw vital moisture away from the skin.
- Protecting the skin with clothing: Many people experience dry skin on the hands, particularly now that regular hand washing and sanitizing have become more commonplace. Wearing gloves in cold temperatures and when washing dishes will help prevent the skin from drying out.
When to contact a doctor
The use of home remedies can improve most cases of dry skin. If they have no effect, a person can contact a healthcare professional, such as a pharmacist, doctor, or dermatologist. These professionals can prescribe the right products or recommend next steps.
Summary
Dry winter skin is not an inevitable consequence of the coldest season. Being conscious of the skin barrier and what it needs to stay healthy can help people take the necessary steps to prevent this uncomfortable condition.
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