Dry skin during winter: Causes, remedies, and additional insights
In the colder months, the harsh weather can take a toll on our skin, leading to dryness, flakiness, and discomfort. Here are some effective strategies to prevent and treat dry skin during the winter season.
Moisturizers play a crucial role in maintaining skin hydration. Rich, emollient creams containing ingredients that attract and lock in moisture, such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, as well as those that repair the skin barrier, like ceramides and niacinamide, are particularly beneficial [1][3]. It's recommended to apply moisturizer daily, ideally twice a day (morning and night), over serums and under sunscreen to keep hydration levels optimal [3].
Bathing habits also impact skin health. Limiting hot showers and avoiding harsh soaps or cleansers that strip natural oils is advisable. Instead, opt for gentle cleansers to maintain the skin's moisture balance [4].
Incorporating weekly intensely moisturizing face masks or serums can deeply nourish dry skin [5][2]. Additionally, staying hydrated and eating foods or taking supplements containing omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids might help prevent dry skin [6].
Other ingredients, such as lanolin, silicone, and mineral oil, help seal moisture into the skin and form a protective barrier [7]. Protecting the skin from cold winds and indoor heating effects, which exacerbate moisture loss, is also essential. Avoid harsh fabrics that can irritate dry winter skin [1][4].
Some practitioners recommend adding retinoids to improve skin texture and aging signs. However, they should be combined carefully with moisture-rich products to avoid further dryness [3].
Winter's changes in humidity and temperature create conditions for dry skin, also known as xerosis. Applying moisturizer as soon as possible after patting the skin dry following a shower or bath is vital [8]. Adjusting skin care regimens, including using a more protective moisturizer, can help prevent dry winter skin [9].
By following these strategies, we can restore and maintain skin hydration and barrier integrity, helping to prevent and treat dry, flaky, and tight skin during harsh winter conditions.
- Proper skincare is essential during the colder months as harsh weather can lead to skin dryness, flakiness, and discomfort.
- Moisturizers are crucial in maintaining skin hydration, with rich creams containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and niacinamide being particularly beneficial.
- Maintaining the skin's moisture balance is important, so try to avoid harsh soaps or cleansers and opt for gentle cleansers instead.
- Weekly moisturizing face masks, serums, staying hydrated, and consuming foods or supplements with omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids can also help prevent and treat dry skin during winter.
