Causes of Dry Winter Skin and How to Prevent It
The winter months can be harsh on skin. The cold, dry air outside combined with hot showers and indoor heating systems pull moisture away from the skin, leaving it tight, flaky, and irritated. Additionally, we tend to take fewer outdoor walks in the winter, getting less sun exposure and circulation, both of which promote healthy skin.
While dry winter skin affects everyone, it is especially bothersome for those already struggling with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. The key is to be proactive about hydration before the winter skin blues strike.
Tips for Battling Dry Winter Skin
Here are some tips for keeping skin happy and healthy all winter long:
- Choose gentle cleansers to avoid stripping natural oils
- Apply thick, fragrance-free moisturizers right after bathing when skin can absorb the most hydration
- Look for moisturizers with ceramides to repair the skin barrier
- Use a humidifier at home and at work to add moisture back into the air
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out
- Take shorter, cooler showers instead of long hot ones
- Apply moisturizer after washing hands to replace lost moisture
- Exfoliate once a week to slough off dry, dead skin cells
- Always use sun protection before heading outdoors
7 Dermatologist-Recommended Lotions for Winter
When battling dry skin, not all moisturizers are created equal. These dermatologist-recommended body lotions are proven to provide intense hydration that lasts all day long:
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream packs skin-nourishing ceramides to restore the protective skin barrier. The rich, fragrance-free formula moisturizes the skin for a full 24 hours. It is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores.
Eucerin Skin Calming Body Wash
Eucerin Skin Calming Body Wash is an ultra-gentle cleanser that hydrates while respecting the delicate pH balance of skin. It rinses clean without leaving residue behind, prepping skin to better absorb moisture from body lotion.
Vaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair Lotion
Vaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair Lotion deeply penetrates to heal dryness at the source. Micro-droplets of Vaseline jelly release moisturizing ingredients over time. The non-greasy formula leaves a protective layer on skin to lock in hydration.
Aveeno Restorative Skin Therapy Repairing Cream
Aveeno Restorative Skin Therapy Repairing Cream helps strengthen delicate skin to prevent winter dryness in the first place. The oat-infused formula improves moisture retention while also soothing irritated skin prone to itchiness and flaking.
Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream
Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream provides intense relief for severely dry, cracked skin. The hydrating formula includes ceramides as well as glycerin and petrolatum to coat skin in long-lasting moisture. It is fragrance-free and gentle for sensitive skin.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Aquaphor Healing Ointment creates an occlusive barrier to seal in the skin’s natural moisture. The mineral-enriched formula not only hydrates deeply but also protects against winds and harsh outdoor temperatures. It is clinically proven to heal dry, cracked hands overnight.
Cetaphil Rich Hydrating Night Cream
Cetaphil Rich Hydrating Night Cream bathes skin in intense, lasting hydration as you sleep. It contains hyaluronic acid, which can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. The velvety cream absorbs quickly and won’t clog pores, making it ideal for all skin types.
DIY Hydrating Lotions and Body Butters
Whipping up homemade lotions and butters is a great way to control the ingredients your skin soaks up. Here are some easy recipes to try this winter that don’t require any special equipment:
3-Ingredient Body Butter
- 1 cup shea butter
- 1 cup coconut oil
- Optional essential oil for fragrance like lavender, vanilla, or grapefruit
Melt the shea butter and coconut oil together either in a double boiler on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave. Allow to cool slightly and add 10-15 drops of any desired essential oils. Mix thoroughly then transfer the mixture to a lidded jar and allow to set fully at room temperature. Apply liberally whenever your skin needs a moisture boost.
Soothing Aloe Vera Lotion
- 1 cup aloe vera gel
- 1⁄3 cup liquid carrier oil like jojoba, grapeseed, or sweet almond
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 10-15 drops essential oil optional
In a food processor or blender, purée the aloe vera gel for about 30 seconds until smooth. Add in oils and process for another 10 seconds. Transfer to an air-tight container. Shake or stir before each use as oils may separate a bit while sitting.
For an ultra-hydrating effect, apply your DIY lotion or butter immediately after showering then seal it in with an occlusive like Aquaphor or Vaseline.
When to See a Dermatologist
While most cases of winter itchiness and dry skin can be managed at home with diligent moisturizer use, some people battle more severe, chronic dryness and inflammation year-round. If you experience any of the following, make an appointment with your dermatologist to discuss prescription treatment options:
- Extremely cracked, blistered, or peeling skin
- Persistent redness and swelling
- Itchy rashes that interrupt sleep
- Skin dryness not improving with over-the-counter creams
A dermatologist can evaluate other underlying causes like psoriasis, eczema, or allergies and provide medical creams tailored to your needs.
The Takeaway
Battling dry winter skin starts with knowing your enemy. Be proactive about hydration before the cold sets in, moisturize daily, and avoid skin-sabotaging habits like long hot showers. For most people, that regimen plus an intensive facial or body lotion with ceramides, glycerin, and petroleum jelly will fend off seasonal dryness.
However, if your skin issues persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to check in with a dermatologist. Prescription remedies can help repair your protective moisture barrier so your skin stays soft and healthy year-round.
FAQs
What causes extra dry skin in the winter?
Frigid temperatures, moisture-sucking indoor heat, hot showers, and not drinking enough fluids are the main culprits of winter skin dryness. Cold weather and heat pull water content from the skin faster than the body can replenish it.
Is body lotion or cream better?
Lotions contain more water and absorb quickly to deliver fast hydration. Creams are thicker, richer, and longer-lasting. For severely dry skin, follow lighter lotions with an extra layer of thick creams for the ultimate moisture lockdown.
Should I exfoliate flaky winter skin?
Gentle exfoliation once a week can improve the absorption of your moisturizers by sloughing off dead skin cells. Use soft scrubs with jojoba beads or a konjac sponge instead of gritty scrubs to avoid irritation.
When should I see a dermatologist for dry skin?
Most dry skin can be managed at home with vigilant moisturizer use. See a dermatologist if you experience persistent redness and swelling, extremely cracked or blistered skin, rashes that disrupt sleep, or if over-the-counter lotions aren’t providing enough relief.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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