As winter sets in and seasons change, the body naturally reacts to the shifts in temperature and environment. Of course, the body’s largest and most external organ is impacted in some way. Lauren Kole, M.D., associate professor in the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Department of Dermatology, offers some tips on how to properly care for your skin during colder weather and addresses some common misconceptions about year-round skin care.
Cold Weather Meets Circulated Heat
Skin naturally becomes drier during colder weather. Cooler air results in less heat and humidity, however, dry skin can be attributed to the increased time spent indoors during colder months. Circulated air and heat inside homes can be the culprit for an increase in drier skin.
“Look at increasing the moisture content or hydration of the moisturizers you use when it gets cold,” says Kole. “If someone is already using products that are heavily exfoliating, then that could also increase the probability for drier skin this time of year.”
For those prone to drier skin naturally, Kole recommends switching from a lighter lotion in the warmer months to a thicker cream moisturizer in the colder months, whether that be for the face or body. She encourages finding products that contain lipids and/or ceramides. “Using products with lipids and ceramides can help build the natural skin barrier, and they are very helpful for holding in moisture and hydration.”
Seasons Change, These Habits Shouldn’t
Moisturizers and Cleansers
For those who utilize skincare products, Kole recommends keeping some kind of moisturizer in the cabinet. However, she says a cleanser that is tailored to your skin type is important.
Individuals with more acne-prone skin may find that a cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide works best. Those with drier or more aged skin may want to use a cleanser specialized for hydration.
Sunscreen
While many become lax on sunscreen use in the fall and winter, sunscreen should be used year-round, no matter the season or temperature. Contrary to popular belief, says Kole, ultraviolet light exposure does not work in tandem with the fluctuations of the weather or the changing of the seasons. “People commonly believe that cooler weather presents an opportunity to skip the sunscreen,” she says. “UV rays are not mutually exclusive to the heat, but rather it is the presence of the sun that guarantees UV is being emitted into the atmosphere.” She strongly suggests using sunscreen in your daily routine, as protection from UV rays can lower the risk of skin cancer later in life and decrease signs of aging. Kole says patients who do not use sunscreen daily tend to see a loss of skin laxity, an increase in wrinkles, sunspots, and—in skin of color—a worsening of hyperpigmentation.
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A girl smearing a handful of hand cream on her hand. Photo on gr
A girl smearing a handful of hand cream on her hand. Photo on gray background.
Tips for Managing Eczema
Atopic dermatitis—commonly known as eczema— is a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation, redness, and intense itching that can worsen during the changing of seasons. Here are a few tips for managing it.
Keep skin moisturized, as dry, scaly skin is an invitation for a flare-up. It’s important to moisturize multiple times a day with a rich moisturizer.
Keep your home extra-clean, starting with keeping carpet, rugs, bedding, and furniture as dust-free as possible. Allergies to pet dander, mold and mildew, pollen, and dust mites have causal links to eczema flare-ups and can make symptoms worse.
Use mild and fragrance-free soaps and cleaners. Hand soap, dish and laundry detergent, body wash, shampoo, and anti-bacterial soap can irritate skin.
Use mildly warm or cool water so that your skin is less stressed after hand-washing and showering.
Wear gloves when using cleaning products, as many surface cleaners and disinfectants can irritate skin.
Avoid nickel, chromium, cobalt chloride, copper, and gold. Check dinnerware, decorative objects, jewelry, and tools for these metals if it seems you are sensitive to them.
Avoid using scented products. Chemicals in lotions, shampoo, cologne, and perfume can cause flare-ups.
Stress hormones often cause inflammation, so try relaxation techniques that help reduce stress and anxiety.