By Kris Castine, Assistant Professor
Intact skin serves as a protective barrier against infection, ultraviolet (UV) light and injury. Maintaining healthy skin is a year-round affair. It is essential to not “take a break” during the winter months. During the cold weather, both internal and external factors can impact skin integrity. Simple modifications to your skin care routine and personal environment can make a significant difference.
Here are some common causes of skin issues during the winter:
Cold temperatures, winds, and low humidity, which can increase transepidermal water loss, resulting in skin dryness and potential damage
Indoor heating can further dry skin and trigger flares for those with pre-existing skin conditions
Warm clothing with rougher textures (wools and flannels) and hot showers/baths can also affect skin integrity
Water consumption is often less during winter months, further contributing to skin issues
Despite all this, there are measures you can take to ensure your skin stays healthy this winter:
Personal care/hygiene:
Take warm showers or baths (not hot) and limit to less than 15 minutes
Add bath oil to the bathtub for extra moisturizing
Cleanse with a creamy, fragrance-free cleaners and stay away from harsh soaps
Avoid rubbing your skin with a towel and instead pat dry your skin after bathing to limit removal of moisture
Immediately moisturize damp skin with topical creams containing ceramide (e.g. CeraVe) or urea (e.g. Eucerin) to maintain skin homeostasis and protect the skin barrier.
Hydration/lip care/sun care/exposure:
A minimum of 64 ounces of water is recommended daily for skin maintenance
Layer your lips with a beeswax base balm (e.g. Burt’s Bees or Carmex)
Use sunscreen before spending time outdoors because snow can reflect sunlight and increase sun exposure, promoting skin damage
Avoid or limit skin exposure from cold wind by consistently wearing protective clothing such as gloves, hats, scarves and face masks.
Humidifying/nutrition:
A humidifier in your home or office environment can increase indoor humidity and support skin integrity, but clean it regularly to prevent mold and allergens
Healthy meals, along with foods higher in water content such as strawberries, cucumbers, pineapple, etc., can provide benefits
Limiting sugar and processed foods can reduce potential skin inflammation
Limiting alcohol can also be helpful due to its diuretic properties
Sometimes, despite efforts, skin integrity issues can still arise. If you notice persistent redness, skin cracks, rash or pain, then it is time to schedule an appointment with your primary provider for further evaluation. Prescription creams or ointments may be required to resolve the problem. In addition, a referral to a dermatologist may also be required to achieve resolution.
It is essential to prioritize skin care during the winter months. Consistently practice gentle cleansing, apply moisturizer regularly, minimize exposure to harsh environmental conditions, and support overall skin health through adequate hydration and a balanced diet. These measures help maintain optimal skin health and contribute to overall well-being.