Winter can be harsh on the skin, often leading to dryness, flakiness, and irritation due to wintry weather and reduced humidity. Dryness and itching during winter, often referred to as winter itch, caused by environmental and physiological factors.

Reasons why we experience itching, dry and irritation in skin during winter.

1. Low humidity levels: Chilly air holds less moisture than warm air, and indoor heating further dries out the environment. This leads to reduced moisture in the skin, causing dryness and flakiness.

2. Hot showers or baths: Prolonged exposure to hot water strips the skin’s natural oils, which function as a protective barrier to retain moisture.

3. Harsh winds: Chilly winter winds can irritate exposed skin, depleting its moisture and causing redness, dryness, and itching.

4. Overuse of indoor heating: Central heating systems, space heaters, and fireplaces dry out the air, reducing skin hydration levels.

5. Reduced natural oil production: In colder weather, the skin produces less sebum (or natural oil), which normally helps to lock in moisture.

6. Harsh skincare products: Using products with fragrances, alcohol, or sulfates can strip the skin’s moisture barrier, exacerbating dryness.

7. Frequent washing: Washing hands or face frequently, especially with harsh soaps, can deplete the skin’s natural oils and moisture.

8. Medical conditions: Certain conditions like eczema (atopic dermatitis), psoriasis, or ichthyosis worsen in dry winter conditions, leading to increased dryness and itching.

9. Tight or irritating clothing: Wearing rough fabrics like wool or synthetic materials can irritate the skin and cause itching, especially in already dry areas.

10. Dehydration: People tend to drink less water in winter, leading to dehydration that reflects in the skin’s dryness.

Tips to protect skin from dryness and itching during winter:

1. Moisturize regularly –Use a thick, oil-based moisturizer immediately after bathing to lock in moisture. Look for products with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. Reapply throughout the day, especially on hands and face.

2. Use lukewarm water – Avoid hot showers or baths, as they strip natural oils from your skin. After bathing, pat your skin dry gently with a soft towel instead of rubbing.

3. Invest in a humidifier –Heating systems dry out indoor air. A humidifier can help maintain optimal humidity levels and prevent skin dehydration.

4. Stay hydrated –Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Incorporate hydrating foods like cucumbers, oranges, and soups.

5. Choose gentle cleansers – Avoid harsh soaps or cleansers that contain alcohol or fragrances. Use mild, fragrance-free, or soap-free cleansers.

6. Protect your skin outdoors –Wear gloves, scarves, and hats to shield your skin from cold winds. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.

7. Exfoliate gently –Remove dead skin cells with a gentle exfoliator once or twice a week. Avoid over-exfoliating, as it can aggravate dryness.

8. Avoid synthetic fabrics – Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce skin irritation.

9. Apply natural remedies –Use natural oils like coconut oil, almond oil, or shea butter to provide deep hydration. Apply Aloe vera gel to soothe itchy skin.

10. Adjust your diet –Include omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) to support healthy skin. Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, as they can dehydrate the skin.

Skin types and winter care:

1. For dry skin: Use rich, creamy moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid. Use cleansing balms or oils instead of foaming cleansers. Apply a hydrating face mask once or twice a week with ingredients like honey or avocado.

2. For oily or acne-prone skin: Use lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers that will not clog pores. Look for gel-based or water-based products with hyaluronic acid or niacinamide like Neutrogena (water gel base) or Cetaphil lotion. Avoid over-cleansing as it can trigger excess oil production.

3. For sensitive skin: Avoid fragranced products and harsh exfoliants. Use products with soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera, or chamomile. Patch-test new products to prevent reactions.

4. For combination skin: Use a lightweight moisturizer for oily areas and a richer one for dry areas. Focus on balancing your skin’s natural oils with niacinamide or glycerin-based products.

5. For aging or mature skin: Incorporate anti-aging ingredients like retinol, peptides, and vitamin C alongside moisturizing products. Layer a hydrating serum under your moisturizer. Do not skip sunscreen to prevent further skin damage.

Common skin concerns and remedy during winter

1. Dry, flaky skin: Use a heavier moisturizer and avoid alcohol-based products.
2. Chapped lips: Apply lip balm with ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or lanolin.
3. Eczema or psoriasis flare-ups: Use hypoallergenic products and consult a dermatologist if needed.

General rule for all types of skin – Hydrate skin, use gentle cleansers, exfoliate gently, stay hydrated, avoid hot showers, use humidifier, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect from UV rays (yes, even in winter). If you are experiencing too much itchiness and rashes during winter contact your primary care for further suggestions to prevent the rash.

Image credit: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1105804 (CC0 For Public Domain)