Your skin loves to be in warm, less humid conditions. It’s when it can breathe easy, keeping it soft, healthy and happy. But when winter rolls around, things change. Cool wind, less humidity – it’s all a bit rough on your skin. It can cause it to dry out, making it feel itchy and bothered. This can get in the way of your everyday activities, even more so for people with really sensitive skin. So we thought we’d break down 5 common winter skin issues and how to tackle them.
1. Itchy skin: In winter, your skin might feel tight and itchy. For some people, it gets so dry it starts to crack and look ashy. This makes room for nasty germs and bacteria to creep in. It happens because the skin gets super dry as the temperature drops and also from indoor heating, which sucks out the moisture from your skin, leaving you itchy. So how do you stop this? Well, try to keep your indoor heating low and moisturize your skin. It’ll help keep your skin hydrated and itch-free.
2. Winter eczema: This is when dry, scaly patches or painful bumps show up on your skin, which can get really itchy, especially at night. Dry air from indoor heating, too much clothing, or hot showers can trigger it. You can soothe it by skipping hot showers and using a gentle soap. Thick moisturizers are also a big help in fighting winter eczema.
3. Winter rash: When winter rocks up, some people get this skin irritation and swelling, called a winter rash. Dry skin causes it and something as simple as a hot shower or turning up the heat can make it worse. To treat it, use a moisturizer or even petroleum jelly. They can act as a barrier, stopping moisture from leaving your skin in harsh conditions.
4. Chapped skin: You can’t hide indoors just because it’s cold outside, right? But stepping out into the cold, dry air can cause your skin to get chapped, especially on your face. Humidity changes and wind can all lead to dehydration of the skin. Not much of a choice but to go outside, right? So, a healing ointment can be a lifesaver. Just slap some on your face or other exposed areas before stepping out.
5. Dry skin: Dry skin’s pretty common in winter due to lower humidity. It can make your skin look dull and it’s where a moisturizer can make a big difference. A tip before applying makeup, use an oil-free foundation for good results.
Winter can be tough on your skin. But hopefully, with these tips, you’ll be able to keep it feeling soft and hydrated. Remember, your skin needs a little extra love during these cold months, so don’t skimp on care. Look after your skin and stay fresh, even in winter!
