Dry skin during winter: an overview

Those who spend a lot of time outside in the winter worry about getting dry skin. The condition known as dry skin refers to an integument that has a dry, rough, or scaly appearance and may be accompanied by reddening, cracking, or itching in some cases. Dry, “chapped” skin can be made worse by anything that reduces the amount of water that is contained in the stratum corneum, such as being in a cold or less humid environment. It is believed that exposure to wind, air conditioning, and cold temperatures can all make xerosis (winter dry skin or winter xerosis) symptoms worse.

The epidermal water barrier needs to be repaired in order for dry skin to be effectively treated. The treatment focuses on rehydrating the skin and stopping it from losing more water. This can be performed by applying moisturising substances directly onto the skin in a topical fashion. The use of hot baths or showers, as well as an excessive amount of bathing, should be avoided. On the other hand, the use of gentle soaps, as opposed to harsh soaps or detergents, should be promoted. Dry skin should be treated by addressing the environmental factors that can be controlled. The addition of humidity to the air is beneficial.

Here are some tips for skin care in winter and be happy:

1. Use lukewarm water:

Hot showers may be tempting during winter, but avoiding them is better. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cooler water seems to cause less itching and is as effective in getting rid of germs as hot/warm water.

2. Use the right moisturiser for skin hydration:

Winter is a dry season. The air inside or outside the home or office tends to dry. Thick creams and moisturisers lock water in your skin. You need to apply these moisturisers on your skin after a bath. Choose thicker creams over lighter lotions for better results. Don’t forget to take care of your hands, feet and lips. Apply moisturiser to heal your cracked and chapped lips. One can use skincare products containing hyaluronic acid and glycerin to keep your skin supple.

3. Stay hydrated inside out:

Due to dry air, skin tends to lose moisture quickly. It’s essential to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to keep that skin healthy and glowing. Avoid drinking alcohol as it may lead to dehydration. Eating foods that are high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids also keeps you well-hydrated and prevent your skin from getting damaged due to pollution. Skin dryness and rash are alleviated in higher humidity. You can install a humidifier that will restore the moisture in the air and keep your skin hydrated.

Read more – Plant sources of omega 3 fatty acids

4. Stay away from exfoliators or scrubs:

Exfoliation of the skin in winter exposes the inner layer to dry and cold weather making it dull and damaged. You should Exfoliate your skin depending on your skin type.

• For people with dry skin – light exfoliation
• For people with Combination skin – exfoliation once a week helps boost skin regeneration and product absorption.

5. Essential oils for skincare in winter:

Virgin coconut oil (VCO) has been traditionally used as a moisturiser for centuries by people in tropical regions. Clinical studies have revealed that VCO improves the symptoms of skin disorders by moisturising and soothing the skin. It works by coating the skin with a protective barrier, ensuring your skin does not lose moisture through the pores. As a result, it is regarded as the best natural remedy for winter skincare for reducing itching and dryness.

Historically, almond oil has been used to treat dry skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Almond oil is perfect for dry skin and can assist with itching, discomfort, and dryness in the winter. It is used to treat dry skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Almond oil also smoothes and rejuvenates skin and improves complexion and skin tone.

6. Follow the Night Skincare routine:

Following a night-time skincare routine during winter is an excellent way to revitalise dry skin. Emollients are a heavier type of cream and are great for moisturising. It takes longer to get absorbed into your skin.

Applying an emollient (Menrox Nourishing Moisturiser Cream 100 GM) to your skin replenishes it with the moisture and oils it needs.

7. Block the Sun:

Though Winter days are short and cold, don’t consider cutting down on your sunscreen routine for your skin. According to the American Cancer Society, UV rays cause skin cancer, sunburn, and premature ageing of the skin (such as wrinkles, leathery skin, and liver spots)
Before you go outside, apply a layer of sunscreen each morning after you’ve used a moisturiser. Broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher are water-resistant and contain moisturising agents.

8. Eat Healthily:

Winter skincare routine must be followed along with a nutritious and seasonal diet. Consume a lot of seasonal fruits and veggies. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Strawberries, grapes, blueberries, raspberries, or cherries are rich sources of essential vitamins that help your skin stay healthy. Fruits and vegetables also cover up the water intake deficit when taken in the form of juices, soups and salads.

9. Work out Daily:

Working out pumps more blood to all organs and skin. People with higher activity levels are likely to have more increased skin hydration than those with lower activity levels. Exercise improves the skin’s ability to retain moisture and may prevent future skin problems. Hence it glows and looks healthy.

These are some winter skincare products you can apply for dry skin

• Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion 250 ML
• Venusia Soft + Moisturizing Lotion 100 ML
• Sebamed Baby Lotion 200 ML
• Dermadew Aloe Lotion 150 ML
• Johnsons Baby Milk Plus Rice Lotion 100 ML

Winter skincare products are available on Truemeds. You can get a free consultation from our doctors about your skin type and get prescriptions for winter skincare products at a discount price. Truemeds is the most trusted and well-known online pharmacy where we deliver your choice of products at your doorstep across India.