In winter, your skin can become a real battleground. The cold, dry air, and indoor heating put a strain on your skin, exacerbating conditions like eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. If you’re experiencing these discomforts, know that you’re not alone, and there are solutions to regain healthy skin.
Find out why skin problems get worse in winter and how to prevent them to get through the cold season with soothed skin.
- Why does the skin become sensitive in winter?
- What skin problems can get worse in winter?
- How to protect your skin?
- When and who to consult?
Why does the skin become sensitive in winter?
In winter, the drop in outdoor temperature, the dry air and the use of indoor heating dry out the ambient air. This reduced moisture weakens the skin barrier, leaving your skin more vulnerable to external aggressors. Add to that the wind that assaults the skin and the temperature changes that cause thermal shock, and you have a perfect recipe for inflammation and itching.
Cold also slows down blood circulation, which can exacerbate redness and sensitivity, especially on the face and scalp. Prolonged hot showers, irritating woollen clothing, and stress can also worsen your skin’s problems.
Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, are particularly sensitive to these environmental changes.
What skin problems get worse in winter?
Winter and its particular climate mean changes to your skin. In some people, it can exacerbate their skin diseases or trigger flare-ups. If this is your case, do not hesitate to talk to a doctor from the ELNA Medical network.
Eczema
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is characterized by red, dry, and itchy patches. This chronic disease can become more severe when the skin lacks moisture. The most affected areas often include the face, hands, and skin folds. The condition can become more severe in winter, making everyday life uncomfortable.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes thick and itching patches covered in white scales. The winter climate makes your skin more sensitive, which can cause psoriasis flare-ups. Lack of sunlight robs your skin of the natural benefits of light, which can worsen lesions, especially on the scalp, elbows, and knees.
Rosacea
Characterized by red patches on the face, rosacea is often triggered by sudden changes in temperature. Switching from cold outside to heated indoors causes blood vessels to dilate, leading to redness and sometimes more annoying symptoms such as small pimples, thickening of the skin and a feeling of warmth in the face.
Cold urticaria
Cold urticaria is an allergic reaction to contact with cold. It causes red patches, swelling and itching, especially on exposed areas such as the hands or face. It is a relatively rare condition but can be very distressing for those affected.
Do you suffer from any of these conditions?
Seek advice from a healthcare professional.How to protect your skin in winter?
It’s hard to control the weather, but there are good habits you can adopt to strengthen your skin barrier, limit irritation and keep your skin healthy. Here are some practical tips to protect and prevent skin conditions in winter.
Adapt your skincare routine
The key to healthy skin in winter is hydration. Replace your light lotions used in the summer with creams rich in nourishing ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid, which help retain moisture. Apply them morning and evening, focusing on the most sensitive and exposed areas such as the hands and face. Don’t forget to rehydrate immediately after showering or bathing, when your skin is still slightly damp to maximize the benefits of the products.
In case of symptoms related to dryness, integrate soothing treatments such as calendula or aloe creams. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor or dermatologist for appropriate treatment.
Protect your skin from external aggressors
When outdoors, cover up with scarves, gloves and hats to limit direct exposure to the cold and wind. Choose clothing made from soft and breathable materials such as cotton, to avoid irritation. If you are prone to eczema or psoriasis, synthetic or rough fabrics may aggravate symptoms.
Reduce the temperature of your showers
In winter, it’s tempting to take hot showers or baths to warm up, but this can dry out your skin. Prefer lukewarm water and limit yourself to 5-10 minutes. Opt for a gentle cleanser, to avoid further damage to your skin barrier. Once out of the shower, gently pat your skin with a towel rather than rubbing it. Avoid saunas as well.
Humidify the indoor air
Central heating dries out the air in your home significantly, which can further dehydrate your skin. Use a humidifier to maintain an optimal level of humidity in the air (between 40 and 60 percent). This will benefit not only your skin but also your breathing comfort.
Manage stress to soothe your skin
Stress is an aggravating factor for several conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and even acne. Try to get enough sleep and incorporate relaxing activities into your routine, such as meditation, yoga or stretching. You might also consider talking to a psychologist if stress becomes difficult to manage. Contact a mental health professional at ELNA
Protect your skin from the sun
Although the sun is less intense in winter, UV rays can still damage your skin, especially if you take part in winter sports. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to exposed areas, such as the face and neck, before going outside. These preventive measures can help limit the damaging effects of winter on your skin. However, if you feel the need for support or if your condition is becoming difficult to manage, it is always best to seek professional advice.
When and who to consult?
Winter can be harsh on your skin, but with the right gestures, you can limit discomfort and enjoy the cold season with peace of mind. If you have a chronic skin disease or condition and your symptoms are becoming too much to manage, it may be time to see a healthcare professional.
At ELNA Medical, we are here to support you. Our teams in the Montreal area offer you comprehensive care.
- Family doctor: General practitioners can give you personalized advice to limit symptoms and live better with your skin problem. They can offer you regular follow-up and refer you to a specialist if necessary. Make an appointment with a family doctor.
- Dermatologist: Specializing in skin conditions, a dermatologist can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe advanced treatments. Make an appointment with a dermatologist.
- Psychologist: In some cases, the help of a psychologist may be beneficial, especially if stress plays a role in your flare-ups or if your condition is affecting your self-confidence and mental health. Make an appointment with a psychologist.
If you have any questions or need an appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us. Take care of your skin, it deserves it!
Sources | Canadian Dermatology Association | Canadian Psoriasis Network | Eczema Society of Canada
