Dermatologist Tips for Dry Winter Skin

Reston Derm in Dermatology December 1, 2021

Dry winter skin can be very uncomfortable. While it isn’t a serious medical issue, it can be annoying to deal with. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to combat this yearly issue.

What Causes Dry Winter Skin?

Dry skin occurs when moisture in your skin is removed. This may be due to several factors, like age, genetics, medical conditions, cosmetic products, humidity and more. Typically, dry winter skin is the results of a combination of these factors. So, what can you do about it?

Purchase a Humidifier

Dry air equals dry skin. The heater that keeps you warm and cozy all winter long is also drying out the air in your home. This in turn can dry out your skin. However, placing a humidifier in your home can increase moisture levels in the air and help combat your dry skin.

Use Sunscreen

We always think of summer as the time when we need to be strict about sunscreen. Truthfully, your skin needs it all year, even in the winter. It’s just as important to apply sunscreen in the harsh winter as it is in the summer. Even on cloudy days, the sun’s harmful UV rays can cause damage. We recommend applying a moisturizing, broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.

Moisturize!

This seems like a given, but its important to stress how crucial moisturizing is. Invest in a high quality, dermatologist recommended moisturizer cream. Look for a cream that contain ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Ceramides help protect the skin’s barrier, which holds in moisture.

Another great way to ensure that your skin has enough moisture is to drink water. Staying well hydrated throughout your day can keep your skin healthy and glowing.

Adjust Your Routine

Winter is a great time to adjust your nightly skincare routine. Using overnight treatments is a great way to rejuvenate or prevent dry skin. Emollients are great moisturizers but they take a long time to be absorbed, so it’s best to apply it at night.

Gentle Cleansing

Make sure you are using a gentle facial cleanser. Bar soaps and even some body wash contain irritating ingredients and harsh fragrance. Its best to choose a fragrance free, moisturizing cleanser. You should also e careful with exfoliants and scrubs. While they do help to remove dead skin, its possible to over-do it.

If you have dry or flaky skin, you may want to choose a chemical exfoliant instead of a physical scrub. Harsher scrubs have larger particles that may break the skin’s moisture barrier and damage your skin. If you have inflamed, irritated, or cracked skin, its probably best to forego exfoliation until your skin heals.