Is your skin dry, itchy, red, or flaky? You may have dehydrated skin, which generally crops up when the temperature drops. In addition, you may develop a rash or skin irritation. If you’re already dealing with a skin condition such as eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, or hives, you may easily experience flare ups during extremely cold weather. Also, as you age, your skin produces less oil, which may require more hydration.
A winter rash is usually a dry, scaly, and red patch of skin, which is irritated from exposure to cold, and wind. Flakiness and redness can be common too. The skin doesn’t initially start out red, but can turn that way through repeated scratching. These winter rashes can be commonly found anywhere on the body where the skin is extremely dry.
Hydration is the key to solving the problem. Switch to unscented, moisturizing skin and body cleansers for sensitive skin. Then apply a rich body moisturizer twice daily to regain the moisture the area needs. If the itching is intense, you may need a hydrocortisone cream and possibly an antihistamine, such as Benadryl. In severe cases, prescription creams may be necessary to decrease the inflammation.
Long, hot showers are a common cause of skin irritation during the winter. Although they may feel luxurious, they tend to strip the skin of its natural oils and essential moisture. Therefore, it’s best to take quick, warm showers instead. Be sure to hydrate the skin immediately after showering, while still damp. Gently apply an occlusive, thick, rich, and fragrance-free cream.
Keep the indoor air moist by running a humidifier. It’s also beneficial to keep the temperature in the home at a decent level and not too high. This will help increase the humidity and prevent skin dryness
Urticaria is another form of a winter rash with a genetic component. This condition is an allergic reaction to the cold, which manifests as hives, causing welts and blisters. The body’s natural defenses release histamine and other chemicals, which attack healthy tissue for unknown reasons.
If you have a history of skin sensitivities, you’re more likely to experience a winter rash. Cold weather is basically a common trigger in people with eczema and rosacea. Similarly, psoriasis can also flare up due to changes in body temperature from weather.
The clothes you wear can also affect your skin. If you have sensitive skin, wear soft and breathable clothing such as cotton for the underneath layer that touches your skin. Wool can often be irritating to dry and sensitive skin because it tends to be itchier on skin. Layering a cotton T-shirt or shell underneath will create a barrier between your skin and any irritation from fabric.
You may also want to adjust your skincare routine this time of year. You can limit your exfoliation to once a week and consider swapping your current moisturizer for a richer formula, such as a cream, instead of a lightweight gel, since water-based formulas evaporate more quickly and are not as long lasting.
Winter skincare requires a bit more time and effort. Your skin is the largest organ in the body, protects you from germs and water loss, and also helps regulate your body temperature. Therefore, taking care of your skin is definitely a worthwhile investment.
Risselle Naimark is a Professional Freelance Makeup Artist and Skincare Consultant. She carries an extensive line of personalized skincare, cosmetics, and anti-aging products. Risselle is also available for weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, makeup lessons, and all of your beauty needs. She can be reached at 718 263-5517.
