In the winter, dry skin is more frequent than in the summer. At this time of year, fluctuations in temperature and relative humidity can cause skin irritation.

Many people suffer from dry skin in the wintertime, and the severity of symptoms varies greatly. Various treatments can help to restore skin moisture and alleviate discomfort. People can also take precautions to keep their skin from drying out.

What causes dry skin in the winter?

Changes in temperature and relative humidity in the winter produce ideal circumstances for dry skin, commonly known as xerosis.

The epidermis refers to the skin's outermost layer. The stratum corneum often referred to as the skin barrier, is the epidermis' thin outer layer.

The skin barrier is composed of lipids and dead or dying skin cells. The skin barrier provides a layer of defense against hazardous pollutants entering the body. The skin seems dry or itchy whenever the skin barrier is damaged.

Moisture is required for the epidermal barrier to function properly. According to research from Trusted Source, there is less moisture in the skin in the winter than those in the summer, as well as fewer lipids.

Winter dry skin symptoms

Dryness caused by wintertime degradation of the skin barrier can lead to:

• flaking
• rocky terrain
• cracks
• With lighter skin tones, redness
• itching
• stinging
• a harsh, touch-sensitive sensation

Many of these symptoms may occur simultaneously in some people. Their harshness should be reduced with the correct therapy.

Winter dry skin treatment

Moisture replenishment is required for dry and injured skin. When treating dry skin, it's ideal to keep your skincare routine as easy as possible. A minimal routine keeps the skin free of superfluous products like toners, serums, and tons of makeup.

The best technique to hydrate the epithelium and minimize water loss from the skin is to use a moisturizer. The finest moisturizers are thick, oily ones that are free of fragrances. When thinner gels, lotions, and creams are applied to inflamed skin, they might sting.

Emollient-containing moisturizers, such as linoleic, linolenic, and lauric acids, can help smooth the skin's surface. They fill up the gaps between skin cells when moisture has been lost.

Moisturizers with humectants draw moisturization. Humectants include substances like:

• ceramides
• hyaluronic acid is a kind of hyaluronic acid that is
• glycerin
• sorbitol
• Lanolin, silicone, and mineral oil are among the other substances that help seal moisture into the skin. They also serve as a protective barrier against environmental harm.

Preventing dry skin in the winter

People can avoid acquiring cold dry skin by adopting the following precautions when the seasons change:

Changing skincare routines: In colder weather, skin demands different treatment, such as the use of a much more protective moisturizer. Exfoliating scrubs, face masks, and steam treatments should be avoided to protect the skin barrier.

Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.

Trusted Source moisturizes the skin and keeps it smooth. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid-rich meals and supplements may also be beneficial.

Using a vaporizer: This device can help refresh the outer layer of the skin by adding moisture to the air. Alternatively, a person can lay a pan of water on top of a radiator, allowing water vapor to rise with the heat.

Limiting heat exposure: This may be accomplished by taking a lukewarm shower or bath instead of a hot one, and by avoiding standing in front of a fire or heater. Excessive heat can cause the skin to lose moisture.

Clothing to protect the skin: Many individuals suffer from dry skin on their hands, especially now that hand washing and sanitizing have become more popular. Gloves should be worn in cold weather and then when washing dishes to avoid skin irritation.

In conclusion, dry winter skin is not an unavoidable result of the coldest season. People may take the required actions to prevent this unpleasant disease by being aware of the skin barrier as well as what it requires to be healthy.