Fight Your Winter Skin Problems With These Easy Steps
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As the air becomes crisp, a lot changes–nights stretch longer, sweaters and jackets become staples, and our surroundings transform. Amid these shifts, our skin also bears the impact. Many experience common skin issues in winners like chapped lips and stubborn dryness that at times cannot be managed, even with generous moisturiser application. No doubt winter brings forth a lot of skin challenges, and so, if you find yourself fighting with these concerns too, we have some tips to share. In this article, we delve into what are common winter skin problems and how to take care of them.
Reasons Why Winter Effects Our Skin
The winter season has several effects on the skin due to cold temperatures and low humidity. The cold air can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and dehydration. Additionally, indoor heating systems further reduce humidity levels, exacerbating dryness. This lack of moisture can cause the skin to become flaky, itchy, and prone to cracks. Moreover, people often take hot showers during winter, which can strip away the skin's natural oils and contribute to dryness. To combat these effects, it's crucial to use moisturisers, stay hydrated, and adopt a skincare routine that addresses the specific winter skin problem.
Some Common Winter Skin Problems
With winter comes a lot of skin issues. No matter the type of skin you have, the season comes with a lot of challenges and your skin is among the first that has to bear the brunt of the chilly weather. Here are some common winter skin problems that people tend to experience.
1. Dry Skin
Dry skin is one of the most common skin issues in winter. The cold air and low humidity levels during winter can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, tightness, and flakiness. While it does not get as severe as other winter skin problems, it’s still advisable to take preventive measures to maintain the moisture level of the body.
2. Chapped Lips
Another common winter skin issues are chapped lips. Our lips have a thin and delicate layer of skin that cannot be covered most of the time. Moreover, our lips lack oil glands as well, making them susceptible to moisture loss. So when the lips lose their natural moisture, they can become dry, cracked, and chapped. Exposure to wind, sun, and frequent licking of the lips can further elevate the problem.
3. Eczema Flare-ups
People with eczema may experience worsened symptoms in winter due to the dry air and exposure to harsh weather conditions. As people with eczema already have a compromised skin barrier, the combination of cold, dry air, and exposure heaters can elevate skin dryness. These can lead to itching, redness, and inflammation. Additionally, people may take hot showers in an attempt to warm up, further contributing to moisture loss and triggering flare-ups.
4. Redness and Irritation
Redness and irritation during winter can be attributed to factors associated with the cold weather. The combination of low humidity and cold air tends to strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Dry skin is more prone to irritation and inflammation. Additionally wearing heavy clothing, such as wool, can sometimes cause friction and irritation on the skin. For people with sensitive skin, exposure to harsh winter elements like cold winds can trigger redness and discomfort.
5. Chilblains
Chilblains, also known as pernio or perniosis, are a skin condition characterised by inflammation, redness, and itching, accompanied by reddish or purplish discoloration of extremities like fingers and toes. It happens due to prolonged exposure to cold and damp conditions, especially in individuals with poor circulation. The top factor triggering chilblains is the rapid warming of cold skin. Damp conditions, like wet clothing or shoes, also increase the risk of chilblains.
6. Psoriasis Flare-up
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition involving rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry patches. Psoriasis flare-ups during winter are primarily triggered by factors like cold air and low humidity levels, less sunlight exposure, and exposure to heating systems that turn the air drier.
7. Cold Urticaria
Cold urticaria is a rare type of physical allergy that happens by the development of hives (urticaria) or welts in response to exposure to cold temperatures. This condition can occur when the skin is exposed to cold air, cold water, or very cold objects. Rapid shifts from warm to cold temperatures can sometimes induce a reaction.
8. Winter Acne
Winter acne refers to acne breakouts or elevation of acne symptoms during the winter months. Due to cold and low humidity, our skin gets dry. the skin might produce more oil to compensate, potentially clogging pores and contributing to acne. In addition, artificial heating systems, applying heavy moisturisers, and a sudden change in skincare routine can also trigger winter acnes.
9. Windburn
Windurb refers to a skin condition that happens due to prolonged exposure to cold and heavy wind conditions. It primarily affects the skin that is exposed, such as the face, and shares similarities with sunburn. After windburn, the skin typically becomes red and dry, and sometimes even starts peeling. Some people might experience burning and stinging sensations as well. It often happens after cold wind removes the natural oils from the skin, causing dryness and irritation.
10. Cracked Heels & Hands
The skin on the heels and hands is prone to cracking during winter as they have fewer sebaceous glands compared to other areas of the body. Sebaceous glands produce natural oils that help moisturise the skin. With lower sebaceous gland activity, these areas are more prone to dryness, especially in winter conditions. The skin on hands is often exposed to harsh environmental conditions, including cold winds and dry air, contributing to moisture loss and dryness.
Effective Winter Skin Care Tips
Don’t let the chilly weather dampen your spirits. Fight these winter skin problems by following some winter skincare tips. Here, we have curated a list of winter skin care tips that’ll help you fight the weather.
1. Start by drinking plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out, combating the drying effects of winter weather. Most of us tend to drink less water as we don’t feel thirsty. But not staying hydrated can worsen the matter.
2. Use a mild, hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping away essential oils from the skin. Avoid hot water to wash your face, as it can further contribute to dryness.
3. Use a rich moisturiser to lock in moisture. Focus on areas prone to dryness, such as hands, feet, elbows, and knees.
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4. Use a humidifier indoors to add moisture to the air. This helps prevent excessive drying of the skin caused by indoor heating systems.
5. Wear hats, scarves, and gloves to shield your skin from cold winds and low temperatures. Ensure that your clothing is made of materials that don't irritate the skin.
6. Even in winter, apply sunscreen to exposed skin, as UV rays can still cause damage. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
POPxo Glow Goals Illuminating Sunscreen
POPxo Glow Goals Illuminating Sunscreen is a non-sticky broad spectrum sunscreen that provides sun protection up to five hours. And from moisturising to protecting and even roaming, this sunscreen does it all.
7. Hot showers can strip the skin of natural oils. Opt for lukewarm water and keep your shower time moderate to prevent excessive drying.
8. Use a mild exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. However, avoid over-exfoliating, as it can worsen dryness.
9. Apply a lip balm with moisturising ingredients like beeswax or shea butter to keep your lips hydrated and prevent chapping.
10. Consume foods rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants to support overall skin health. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts can be particularly beneficial.
11. If you use skincare products, apply them in the correct order from thinnest to thickest consistency to maximise their effectiveness.
When To See A Doctor For Winter Skin Issues
Most of these skin issues in winners are treatable at home, however, everyone’s skin is different, so what may work best for one may not work for others. So if the issues are severe or persistent, it’s advisable to consult a doctor ASAP! Here are some signs that can indicate you should seek medical attention–
1. If your skin is extremely dry, and itchy, and over-the-counter moisturisers aren't providing relief, a dermatologist can recommend stronger treatments.
2. If you have eczema, and it worsens or doesn't improve with your usual treatments during winter, consult a doctor for a personalised care plan.
3. Cracked skin can be more susceptible to infections. If you notice signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.
4. Extreme exposure to cold winds can cause conditions like windburn or even frostbite. If you suspect severe skin damage, seek immediate medical attention.
5. If existing skin conditions like psoriasis or rosacea worsen during winter, consult your dermatologist for appropriate treatment.
6. If you develop an unexpected rash or allergic reaction to skincare products, winter clothing, or any other substances, consult a doctor.
7. **Persistent Pain or Discomfort:** If you experience persistent pain, discomfort, or a burning sensation on your skin that doesn't improve with home remedies, it's crucial to seek professional advice.
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