That’s the Beauty of it!

Along with the cold temperatures, ice and snow, winter also brings dry skin to almost all people, regardless of their skin types. Those with already dry, mature or sensitive skin tend to suffer the most from dry skin during the winter months, but people who have normal or even oily skin notice the effects of indoor heating and the weather elements.

What Causes Dry Skin in the Winter?
Dry skin is the result of a lack of water. The low temperatures and low humidity of winter weather strip the skin of moisture, or water.

The weather outside and indoor heating are both factors in the development of dry skin. Although some people are born with dry skin or their skin becomes drier as they age, many suffer from dry, itchy, winter skin — also known as pruritis heimalis.

Being inside with humidity levels as low as 5 to 15 percent (40 to 45 percent humidity is recommended) due to indoor heating, even people who have oily or normal skin notice the surface of their skin becomes tight and dry throughout the winter months.

How Does Dry Skin Affect Overall Health?
Dry skin can lead to bigger health problems. The skin acts as a barrier to the body. When it is dry and cracked, it no longer is a good defense against germs.

Itching is the primary problem caused by dry skin, which leads to scratching. Scratching the skin will sometimes cause skin abrasions, which can then result in infection.

What Can Prevent or Treat Dry Skin?
Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to prevent or treat dry skin. Here are some helpful tips!

• Place humidifiers in the most-used rooms of the house if the central heating system does not have a motor-driven humidifier. Some people may find having a humidifier in their offices will also help.
• Use lotion or moisturizing cream after washing hands or taking a shower or bath, applying it to the skin after patting it dry and while it is still damp. This will help “lock” in the moisture. Depending on the skin type, many people will need a heavier, oil-based moisturizing cream or lotion during the winter. Remember to wash hands frequently to help prevent the spreading of cold and flu viruses, but don’t forget to moisturize after each washing.
• Avoid using antibacterial or deodorant soaps. Instead, wash with glycerine soaps or products that include moisturizing agents.
• Keep showers and baths short. Using lukewarm water, instead of hot, will also keep the skin from drying out as much. At the health club, avoid the saunas because they too will strip the skin of moisture.
• Wear gloves while washing dishes or using household chemicals.
• Use a mild laundry detergent and limit the use of bleach on clothing and bedding.
• Avoid using alcohol-based products on the skin, such as toners. If they are needed to treat acne, apply them only on those areas that are being treated.
• When venturing outdoors, keep skin covered. This includes wearing gloves, scarves and hats.
• Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 every day.
• Drink between six and eight glasses of water every day. Being dehydrated can make dry skin worse.
• Place plants such as ferns, bamboos, coleus and papyrus throughout the house. These plants “exhale” more water than they take in, making them natural moisturizers of the air.
• Reduce the intake of products with caffeine such as coffee, tea or sodas, which are diuretics. Diuretics cause the body to eliminate water faster.
• Exfoliate skin once or twice a week with a loofah, wash cloth or exfoliating products.
• Use lip balm to prevent or relieve dry, chapped lips. Licking lips only causes them to become drier.

If the above tips do not help relieve your dry skin, then consult your primary care physician to discuss additional treatment.