How To Avoid Dry Skin in Winter

If you find yourself scratching more than usual during the colder months, you’re not alone. Many Australians report that their skin is at its driest during the winter months, with the face (64%) and hands (51%) being particularly affected. But why does this happen? 

Understanding how our skin reacts to colder temperatures can help us take preventive measures.

How Weather Affects Skin

Skin is the body’s temperature regulator. When you get overheated, your body produces sweat, which evaporates from your skin’s surface, carrying away heat. However, if your body sweats faster than your pores can eliminate it, the sweat can become trapped beneath the skin, leading to heat rash. This condition is characterised by tiny, red, itching bumps that often appear on areas covered by clothing, such as the neck, chest, and groin.

When you sweat more, it can mix with the oil your skin produces. If you’re prone to acne, this combination can clog your pores. This creates a perfect environment for bacteria to grow, which can cause inflammation and lead to acne.

On the other hand, cold weather can make it difficult for our skin to retain moisture. This is because the air becomes drier and colder, causing our skin to lose water. As a result, our skin may become itchy, dry, and cracked, especially around the lips. As the skin loses moisture, it becomes less elastic, making wrinkles and fine lines more noticeable.

How To Prevent Skin Dryness in the Winter

The key to preventing dry skin in the winter is to stay hydrated. Here are some skin hydration tips:

Modify your home environment

Use a humidifier to help add moisture to dry indoor air, preventing your skin from losing too much moisture. Aim for a comfortable home humidity level of 30% to 50%. 

Avoid setting the humidifier too high, as excessive humidity can create an environment conducive to mould, fungi, dust mites, and other allergens. Also, regularly clean your humidifier to prevent the spread of dust and germs.

Another thing you have to check is your home’s insulation. Seal any air leaks in doors, windows, attics, and crawl spaces with caulk, spray foam, or weather stripping. This will help prevent cold, dry air from entering your home.

Lastly, avoid sitting directly in front of a heater or open fire, as this can dry out your skin and damage its protective barrier. Opt for alternative heating methods or maintain a comfortable distance from heat sources.

Adjust your skincare routine

Consider your skin type when selecting products. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may benefit from beta-hydroxy acids like salicylic acid and oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturisers. 

If you have a sensitive skin type, your skin may prefer unfragranced products with fewer ingredients, such as those containing niacinamide. If your skin is dry, you may need thicker ointment-like moisturisers and more frequent applications.

Avoid the foaming or soap-like ones, whatever your skin type, as they can strip your skin of hydration. Also, apply a daily sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even in winter. The UV index can be high in Australia, even during the cold months.

Consider professional skin exfoliation

Regular exfoliation can help skincare products like serums and moisturisers penetrate your skin more deeply. Dead skin cells can prevent moisturisers from effectively treating dry skin, so removing these flakes is necessary for achieving hydrated, healthy skin.

However, the way you exfoliate is important. Avoid removing all the flakes at once; instead, focus on gradual improvement over a week. Chemical peels or exfoliants are generally a better choice for minimising irritation than physical exfoliants. 

Also, over-exfoliation can be harmful, which is why we recommend seeking professional exfoliation treatments for optimal results.

Nourish your skin from within

Just as your body relies on nourishment for overall well-being, your skin also benefits from the nutrients you consume.

Neglecting a healthy skin diet can lead to various skin problems, including sallowness, dryness, and premature ageing. While these changes may not occur overnight, prolonged neglect can significantly impact your skin’s appearance.

We recommend incorporating hydrating foods and healthy fats into your diet. Fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help nourish your skin and reduce dryness.

Protect your skin from the elements

Protecting your skin from harsh elements in winter is essential for maintaining its health and hydration. Some of the protective measures you can take are:

• Wearing gloves and scarves to shield your hands and face from the cold, dry air and wind. This can help prevent moisture loss and irritation.
• Covering your head with a hat to protect your scalp and hair from the cold and dry air. This can help prevent dryness and flakiness.
• Using lip balm, as your lips are particularly vulnerable to dryness in cold weather. Apply a hydrating lip balm regularly to keep them moisturised and prevent cracking.
• Limiting exposure to harsh elements such as extremely cold or windy weather conditions.

Seek professional advice

Consult our ENRICH cosmetic dermatologists if you’re experiencing persistent itchiness or dryness despite following the above tips. They can accurately diagnose any underlying skin conditions that may be contributing to your dryness or irritation.

Based on your skin type and condition, a dermatologist can also recommend appropriate treatments, such as prescription moisturisers, topical medications, or supplements, and provide tailored advice on skin care routines, product recommendations, and lifestyle changes to help improve your skin health.

Manage Winter Skin Dryness at ENRICH

Don’t let dry skin ruin your winter. At ENRICH, we offer many skin treatments. Ask our dermatologists what works best for your situation.