Expert Tips to Combat Dry Winter Skin
We spoke to Emilie Fowler. MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City, about treating dry skin in the winter.
Winter brings its own set of skincare challenges, with dry air and freezing temperatures creating a nightmare for our skin. Winter air brings a significant drop in humidity levels leading to dry, itchy and irritated skin, often compounded by the dehydrating effects of indoor heating and harsh winds. Dr. Fowler shares her expert advice on why winter skin dryness occurs and how to treat and prevent it effectively.
Why Does Skin Get So Dry in Winter?
The cold, humidity-free weather in the winter creates the perfect storm for dry skin. According to Dr. Fowler: “During winter, the temperature and humidity levels drop, which can lead to a loss of moisture in your skin. Indoor heating can also reduce the humidity in the air, further exacerbating dryness.” Essentially, the combination of colder outdoor air and dry, heated indoor environments are breeding grounds for moisture loss and leave the skin all of your body looking flaky and feeling tight, itchy and uncomfortable.
Additionally, the skin produces fewer of its natural oils in colder temperatures, making it harder for your skin barrier to remain hydrated and healthy. To add insult to injury, wind exposure can also strip the skin of its protective oils, making it more vulnerable.
Moisturize Like You Mean It
This is the time to invest in moisturizer and apply it as much as possible. Dr. Fowler emphasizes that “the mainstay of treating dry skin in winter is moisturizing!” Here are her tips on getting the most out of your moisturizer:
- Choose Creams Over Lotions
Creams tend to be thicker and more effective than lotions at retaining moisture. Don’t know the difference? Look for skincare products that come in jars or tubs and contain super-hydrating ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin. - Moisturize Immediately After Showering or Bathing
Apply a moisturizer to damp skin right after bathing to lock in hydration. Dr. Fowler suggests moisturizing at least once daily, but if you are prone to dry skin, or have eczema, you may need to moisturize more frequently — there is no limit on the number of times you can moisturize per day.
Humidifiers Are Your Friend
Using a humidifier in your home — especially in the bedroom when you sleep — can help add moisture to the air, preventing your skin from drying out further in heated indoor environments.
Gentle Cleansers and Targeted Treatments
Use mild, hydrating cleansers instead of harsh soaps that can strip natural oils. For areas prone to extreme dryness, consider overnight treatments with thicker ointments.
Everyday Tips Keep Skin Hydrated in Winter
Your daily habits play a significant role in maintaining hydrated skin during the winter months. Dr. Fowler offers these tips:
Limit Hot Showers
As tempting as a long, hot shower might be on a cold day, Dr. Fowler advises limiting showers to less than 10 minutes and using lukewarm water. “Long, hot showers can strip your skin of its natural oils and further exacerbate dry skin,” she explains.
Be Smart About Soaps
Avoid cleansing with harsh, lathering soaps that dry out the skin by stripping it of its natural oils. Dr. Fowler recommends using gentle options like Dove, Cerave or Cetaphil, and only applying soap to areas on the body that can harbor bacteria and odor.
Go Unscented
Fragrances and scented products can irritate sensitive or dry skin. It is tempting to use heavily fragranced laundry detergents, but switching to “free and clear” detergents, as well as unscented soaps and moisturizing creams are much better for your skin.
Use Sunscreen Year-Round
“Even though outdoors you may not feel the warmth of the sun, exposure to harmful UV rays can lead to skin cancer and contribute to signs of aging,” says Dr. Fowler. Don’t skip sunscreen — opt for a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Dry Skin
While most cases of dry skin can be managed with proper care, there are times when professional help may be necessary. “Dry skin is common and typically resolves with at-home remedies and lifestyle changes,” says Dr. Fowler. “However, if your skin is unresponsive to at-home remedies, it may be time to see your dermatologist.”
Signs that tell you it’s time to see a dermatologist:
- Persistent itching, burning or redness.
- Cracking or bleeding skin.
- Skin that’s unresponsive to over-the-counter treatments.
- Signs of infection, such as swelling, pus or warmth around affected areas.
Dermatologists can evaluate your skin to determine whether your symptoms point to an underlying condition such as eczema or psoriasis. They can also recommend prescription-strength treatments and help customize a skincare routine.
How a Dermatologist Can Help Treat Severely Dry Skin
Dermatology providers are experts in all things skin-related and can provide a thorough evaluation to ensure your dry skin isn’t a symptom of a more serious condition. “We can help differentiate dry skin from alternative diagnoses such as eczema,” explains Dr. Fowler. Dermatologists can also prescribe treatments, such as medicated creams, ointments or therapies, to address severe dryness or any other related skin conditions effectively.