Dr. Deepthi Prasad, MBBS.
Written by Our Editorial Team
Table of Contents
We all love winter as we can indulge in fun activities such as skating, snowboarding, and skiing. However, the winter months bring along dry skin problems. Winter can be a harsh season, especially when it comes to your skin and hair. Cold air and indoor heating can strip the natural moisture of your skin and hair, leaving them dry, rough and itchy. But with proper skincare routines and using the right skincare products, you can counter dry skin in winter. This blog will give a lowdown on dry skin in winters and expert advice on how to fix it.
What Causes Dry Skin In Winter?
The outermost layer of the skin -the stratum corneum, commonly known as the epidermis- is responsible for retaining the skin's moisture level. This outer layer comprises the skin cells, acting as the building blocks which are held together with the help of lipids and protein. This layer acts as a protective barrier for the skin to retain moisture and protect skin from harmful germs, bacteria, and toxins.
However, during the winter season, with the drop in temperature and humidity, the skin's protective barrier weakens, and the moisture escapes out of the skin due to evaporation, resulting in moisture loss. Moisture helps to maintain a healthy skin barrier. When the skin's moisture level depletes, it damages the barrier function of the skin, causing inflamed, itchy and dry skin.
Another reason for skin dryness in winter - when you keep indoor heating too high during winters, it reduces the amount of moisture in the air which inturn cuts down the moisture available for skin. Moreover, hot baths or showers, even though they feel like a relief in the coldest season of the year, can damage the skin's surface, making it even more dry.
Symptoms Of Dry Skin In Winter
When the protective barrier of the skin gets damaged, it can result in skin dryness. Let’s have a look at the symptoms of dry skin in winters:
- Tight skin, especially after a shower
- Flaky skin
- Itchiness
- Cracks
- Inflammation
- Skin discoloration-skin turns grey
- Skin becoming raw and more sensitive to touch
These skin conditions can cause many discomforts that get worse when left untreated. Seeking a dry skin treatment at the right time can prevent it from deteriorating.
Top 5 Tips To Drive Away Dry Skin In Winter
If you're looking for ways to combat winter dryness and keep your skin hydrated, here are pro tips to help you out:
1. Avoid Hot Water Showers
Hot water showers can be delightful during winter weather, but they strip the natural oil from your skin, making it look dry and flaky. Our advice, avoid it at all costs!
2. Apply Moisturizer On Damp Skin
It is always advisable to apply a moisturizer on damp skin as they lock the moisture inside your skin, thus retaining the hydration level. After a shower, dry your skin with a bath towel and apply a thick layer of moisturizer to trap the moisture inside the skin. Applying a moisturizer on dry skin doesn't help, as there is no moisture in the skin.
3. Buy Skincare Products With Care
Read the label carefully before buying a skincare product. Opt for fragrance and alcohol-free products, as these skin care products can deprive your skin of its natural oils. Experts recommend using moisturizers, instead of lotions for dry skin. Look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, pentavitin, squalene and ceramides mentioned on the ingredient list. We recommend using ThriveCo's Regenerative 5kDa Hyaluronic Acid Super Serum containing ultra-hydrating ingredients that quickly penetrate through skin to hydrate, nourish, and replenish the skin from deep within. Anti-acne and anti-aging skincare products should be used less frequently during winters as they can be harsh on dry skin.
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4. Don't Over Exfoliate
Exfoliation helps to clear out dead skin cells, grime, and debris from the skin's surface. During winter, when your skin is already dry, exfoliation can worsen your skin conditions. Exfoliating skincare products are potent and can strip the natural oil from the skin, resulting in dry, flaky skin. During the winter season, ensure not to over-exfoliate your skin.
5. Use A Humidifier
Using a humidifier indoors helps to raise the moisture level in the air. This helps prevent moisture loss in winter, and your skin remains hydrated.
Dry skin in winter is inevitable, but not impossible to deal with. Keep your skin moisturized and hydrated at all times. Look for ultra hydrating serums and a good moisturizer for dry skin with skin-friendly hydrating ingredients. Follow the above tips to effectively combat dry, flaky skin and maintain a healthy, radiant glow all winter.
About Doctor :
Dr. Deepthi Prasad specializes in Dermatology, Cosmetology, and Aesthetic Dermatology and has been practicing for over 15 years. After completing MBBS from Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences Andhra Pradesh in 2009, she earned a MD in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy from Osmania Medical College in Hyderabad in 2014.
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