What Causes Dry Skin In Winter?

“Winter is coming” - sounds familiar? All the “GOT’’ fans would be! Even if you are not a fan, you know what it means, right? Yes! It translates to ‘An ominous warning about future danger or trouble’, and here we are talking about ‘actual winter woes’ of our skin.

As soon as the cold season begins, the skin turns dry and flaky and chapped lips, itchy, tight skin, cracked heels etc., are a constant. And the frostnip turns your nose red, turning you into an actual -” Rudolph”!

The humidity is low outdoors and indoors during winters, resulting in roughness, flaking, itching, cracking and sometimes a burning sensation. When the skin is dry, its protective barrier can become compromised, making it more susceptible to irritants and allergens.

Dry skin in winter, also known as winter itch or winter xerosis, can be relieved with a diligent winter skincare routine. Everyone’s skin is unique. Some trial and error help to find the best products and practices that work for you.

Read on for handy tips for fighting off winter troubles.

What are the reasons for dry skin in winter?

A combination of environmental factors and changes in skin physiology primarily causes dry skin in winter. Here are some of the key reasons why people often experience dry skin in winter:

1. Low Humidity

• Cold air holds less moisture, leading to lower humidity levels.
• Also, you will use indoor heating systems that often reduce humidity, causing the air to become dry. This dry air can strip moisture from the skin, leading to dryness and dehydration.
• So when the heating system is on, use a humidifier and set it to around 60%, a level that should be sufficient to replenish the top layer of the epidermis and restore moisture to the air.

2. Cold climate and breeze

• People living in harsh cold regions experience the wrath of very low temperatures on the skin.
• The skin becomes dry and brittle, often flaking during winters.
• Cold winds can exacerbate the drying effect on the skin. The wind removes the thin layer of moisture that naturally sits on the skin's surface, making the skin more susceptible to dryness and irritation.

3. Hot Showers and Baths

• Having a shot shower is the most enjoyable thing to do in freezing winters. It relaxes and warms up the body.
• Hot water can strip the skin of its’ natural oils and disrupt the skin barrier, leading to dryness and moisture loss.
• Avoid soaking in the tub or showering for long periods. Instead, use lukewarm water and keep it short to avoid drying.
• Remember to gently pat dry your skin with a soft towel to avoid irritation.

4. Low hydration

• A hot cup of coffee or tea is what you can think of on a cold, freezing day. Many used to believe it was dehydrating, but that myth was debunked and found its diuretic effect does not offset hydration.
• But these beverages cannot be consumed in excess, limiting the hydration levels in the body.
• In winter, you might not feel as thirsty and consume less water, which affects skin hydration from the inside out.
• Hydrate by consuming a balanced diet with fruits like watermelon, oranges and grapefruit, melons like cantaloupe and honeydew and vegetables like celery, cucumbers, tomatoes, green peppers, and Romaine lettuce.

5. Incorrect skincare

• Changing weather requires a change in winter skincare for dry skin.
• Dry air, lack of sunlight, and colder weather make psoriasis worse.
• Using harsh cleansers, over-exfoliation with physical exfoliators, harsh shampoos and detergents that removes excess oil, sweat and dirt all contributes to dry skin.
• The best winter lotion for dry skin should include ingredients like-
• Humectants which help attract moisture- include ceramides, glycerin, sorbitol, urea, hyaluronic acid, propylene glycol and lecithin.
• Petrolatum (petroleum jelly), silicone, lanolin, and mineral oil help seal that moisture within the skin.
• Emollients such as linoleic, linolenic and lauric acids smooth skin by filling the spaces between skin cells.
• Petroleum jelly and moisturizing oils (such as mineral oil) are thick and prevent water loss without clogging pores. So thicker and greasier moisturizers are the best moisturizers for winter.
• Get rid of alcohol-based, fragranced skincare products and include a biweekly hydrating mask application into your winter skincare for dry skin.

6. Skin aging

• Dry skin is a common phenomenon with aging skin. At least 75% of people over age 64 have dry skin.
• The cumulative effect of sun exposure over the years makes the skin thinner, and moisture is lost from the skin easily.
• Women in the post-menopausal age show a decline in the hormones that stimulate oil and sweat glands.
• Medical conditions like hypothyroidism, diabetes, lymphoma, kidney disease, liver disease, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis are linked with dry skin.
• Winters just are tough on the aging skin, leaving it more dry.

What are the signs of dry skin in winter

Dry skin in winter is common and is a temporary phase that would pass on with the seasonal change. Signs and symptoms of dry skin might vary based on age, health status, skin tone, environment and sun exposure.

Here are a few signs of dry skin that commonly appear often more pronounced during the colder months:

• Dry skin can lead to the formation of small, white flakes or scales on the skin's surface, particularly on areas like the arms, legs, and face giving it an ashy look.
• The skin may feel rough and uneven to the touch due to a lack of moisture and natural oils.
• Your skin feels tight, especially after washing or exposure to cold air, especially on the face.
• Winter dry skin rash is common in winter. Dry skin can become red, irritated, or even inflamed, leading to a sensitive and uncomfortable feeling.
• As the skin's protective barrier weakens, due to the moisture loss, the skin becomes more prone to irritation and itching.
• Severely dry skin can develop small cracks or fissures if ignored. It can be especially seen in areas that experience a lot of movement, like the knuckles and heels. Cracked heels can lead to infection or make walking painful.
• Chapped and cracked lips are the most prevalent sign of dry skin during winter. Almost everyone feels the sting that it gives, it can bleed if it worsens.
• When the skin is dehydrated, fine lines and wrinkles may become more noticeable. Hydrated skin generally appears plumper and smoother.
• Dry skin appears dull and lackluster due to the lack of a healthy glow due to moisture loss.
• The skin will have reduced elasticity, be less firm and is more prone to sagging.

What are the complications that may occur due to dry skin in winter

Dry skin in winter, if left untreated or not managed, can lead to several complications that affect skin health and appearance. Some of the potential complications include:

1. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis):

• Prolonged dryness can weaken the skin's barrier, making it more susceptible to eczema.
• Eczema is characterized by red, itchy, inflamed skin and is exacerbated by cold and dry weather.
• The itch causes cracking and bleeding of the skin and is an avenue for invading bacteria.
• Dermatologists will suggest winter moisturizers for dry skin containing emollients and humectants to treat the condition.

2. Infections:

• Dry skin can create small openings in the skin barrier providing a pathway for bacteria and other pathogens to enter.
• This can lead to infections such as cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that causes redness, swelling, and warmth.

3. Hyperpigmentation and Scarring:

• Winter skin can be dry, itchy and scratching the skin to get relief is common.
• Scratching dry skin can lead to skin trauma, which may result in hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) and scarring.
• Reapply your best winter moisturizer for dry skin frequently to avoid dryness and itching.

4. Worsening of Skin Conditions:

• Existing skin conditions like psoriasis and rosacea can be worsened by dry, cold weather.
• Psoriasis patches can become more inflamed and itchy, while rosacea flare-ups can be triggered by temperature changes.
• Constant scratching can further damage the skin and increase the risk of infections.
• Contact dermatitis, an inflammatory skin reaction, can occur when the skin comes into contact with substances, leading to redness, itching, and rash.

How to prevent dry skin during winter season

Preventing dry skin in winter involves adopting a proactive skincare routine and making adjustments to protect your skin from harsh environmental conditions. Here are some tips to prevent dry skin during the winter season:

1. Gentle cleansing and exfoliation:

• Dry skin will stay dry without some light exfoliation. Opt for a mild cleanser like mild glycolic or lactic acid that won't strip your skin of its natural oils.
• Using a gentler cleansing oil or micellar water cleanser won't dehydrate the skin.
• For severe dry skin, try a cleansing balm, a rich, waterless formula based on shea butter and oils that soften skin as they purify and can function as a makeup remover.
• Avoid rinsing with hot water, as it can contribute to dryness.
• For severely dry skin people skip the exfoliator and incorporate a wet washcloth for gentle exfoliation.
• Avoid retinol in winter as it is a strong exfoliant and may cause extra dryness during the winter.
• The best face wash for dry skin in winter is without drying ingredients like fragrances or additives.

2. Limit Hot Showers and Baths:

• While it's tempting to take hot showers in the cold weather, hot water can strip your skin's natural oils and cause increased evaporation of your skin's natural hydration.
• Use lukewarm water instead and limit the duration of your showers or baths.
• Replace drying soaps with super-fatted, fragrance-free soap bars or liquid, body cleansing oil, bath oil with fatty acid-rich soybean or other plant oils etc.

3. Moisturize regularly after bath:

• Apply a rich, hydrating moisturizer immediately after showering to lock in moisture.
• The best lotion for winter dry skin contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, and ceramides.
• A glycerin or hyaluronic acid-based moisturizer can increase the amount of water drawn into your skin.
• Moisturize multiple times a day and rub a hydrating body cream all over, from your neck to your feet.
• Use a cream or balm that is thicker and adheres for the long term on the skin. It contributes to the intense healing of dry skin.

4. Humidify your home:

• Prep your home for the winters by placing humidifiers to add moisture to the indoor air and help counteract the drying effects of indoor heating systems.
• Place it in the room where you spend the most time, like the bedroom or corners where you sit the most.
• Thus the skin’s barrier will stay hydrated, and you can stave off irritated, itchy skin this winter.

5. Revamp your diet and hydration level:

• The gut and skin health are hugely interconnected. A healthy balanced diet with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants and adequate hydration guard the overall health and skin health.
• Increase your daily intake of fats by including walnuts, olive oil, avocados etc. which may help with dry skin.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain skin hydration from the inside out.

Tips for combating dry skin in winter

Harsh winter requires the right skincare routine, habits and products. These simple changes help keep both face and body skin soft, hydrated and supple.

Follow these tips to combat dry skin in winter and say goodbye to cracked, parched, and chapped skin:

• Opt for a mild, soap-free cleanser in winter.
• Keep your showers and baths short, and use lukewarm water instead of hot water to prevent excessive drying.
• According to CDC-The temperature of the water does not appear to affect microbe removal; however, warmer water may cause more skin irritation and is more environmentally costly. So use lukewarm water for handwash and apply hand cream after each washing.
• Apply a thick, hydrating moisturizer to damp skin right after showering to lock in moisture. Pay extra attention to areas prone to dryness, such as elbows, knees, and hands.
• Always pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing vigorously, which can irritate the skin.
• Apply a moisturizing balm such as petroleum jelly to heal dry, cracked lips and prevent getting chapped.
• Wear waterproof gloves to protect your hands while you wash dishes or clean the house.
• Avoid skin-care products containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), retinoids, products that contain alcohol and fragrances etc. as they will irritate the dry skin.
• It is important to apply sunscreen in the harsh winter weather too. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher with water resistance and moisturizing ingredients such as lanolin or glycerin.
• Wear accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats to shield your skin from cold winds. First, put on light layers made from soft, breathable materials like cotton or silk directly against your skin and then wear woolen ones.
• Hydrate well and avoid processed foods and sugars and eat whole foods that are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
• Read the ingredients labels carefully, best lotion for dry skin in winter can also have skin-irritating ingredients like alcohol and fragrance.
• Decrease your use of anti-aging products to three or four times a week instead of every day as the ingredients in them that help promote quick skin cell turnover may be too drying in the winter.
• The best winter face moisturizer is a thicker, creamier product that contains hyaluronic acid and ceramide.
• Avoid astringent toners and try spritzing on an alcohol-free face mist with hydrating ingredients such as natural oils and glycerin.
• Consider using overnight moisturizing masks to provide intense hydration while you sleep.
• Incorporating an alcohol-free, antioxidant serum or a hydrating serum would allow the skin to be protected from sun damage and hydrate the skin.
• Korean winter skincare products focus on pure hydration and respecting the skin barrier. It typically focuses on gentle and hydrating products such as cleansers, toners, essences, serums, moisturizers and sunscreens. Double Cleansing with cleansing balm is beneficial in winter.

Conclusion

Winter is always harsh on the skin, so it is always a worry about how to take care of the skin in winter naturally. Face packs with banana, avocado, yoghurt, honey, strawberry, papaya, olive oil, almond oil, coconut oil etc. can make skin supple and help combat dry skin in winter.

But remember that everyone’s skin is different, so it’s important to pay attention to your skin's needs and adjust your skincare routine accordingly during the winter months. Maintaining a consistent and hydrating skincare routine, using appropriate moisturizers, avoiding harsh products, staying hydrated, and protecting your skin from harsh weather conditions.

By combining the tips mentioned with a consistent skincare routine and maintaining healthy habits, you can effectively combat dry skin and maintain a comfortable and hydrated complexion during the winter season.