Why Does My Skin Get Dry During the Winter?

As winter settles across Gastonia, North Carolina, a chill in the air adds a touch of coziness to the season. It’s the perfect time to enjoy innovative dining in Uptown Charlotte, learn more about the natural world at the Schiele Museum of Natural History, or enjoy lakeside views at Rankin Lake Park. However, the winter air also brings an unpleasant dryness that can leave your skin suffering. As you embark on winter adventures, arm yourself with the tools to keep your skin happy and healthy.

Is your skin feeling rough or flaky, especially on your elbows, knees, hands, face, and feet? As winter approaches, many individuals encounter the discomfort of itchy, dry skin. In winter, the air becomes drier both indoors and outdoors, leading to quicker moisture evaporation from the skin. Cold temperatures constrict blood vessels, reducing the flow of natural oils and nutrients to the skin. These factors combined contribute to the common occurrence of dry skin during winter.

Most Vulnerable Areas for Dry Skin

While dry skin can vary for everyone, there are common spots vulnerable to drying out, especially during colder months:

• Elbows: Naturally thicker and prone to dryness due to the lack of oil glands.
• Hands: Constant exposure to cold air, harsh soaps, and frequent handwashing can strip natural oils.
• Knees: Thicker skin prone to dryness, requiring regular moisturization.
• Face (especially around the mouth): Delicate skin is sensitive to environmental changes.
• Feet: Closed shoes and boots, combined with winter sweat, can lead to dryness.

Preventing Dry Skin During Winter

Use a Humidifier

Humidifiers add moisture back into the air, preventing dry skin. Follow these tips:

• Choose the right-sized humidifier for your home.
• Place it centrally for even moisture distribution.
• Keep it clean to prevent bacteria and mold growth.
• Maintain humidity levels between 30 and 50 percent for ideal skin and home conditions.

Avoid Hot Showers

Despite the relief hot showers provide, they dry out the skin. Hot water dilates blood vessels, causing redness, irritation, dryness, and flaking. Hot water strips the skin of natural oils, making it more vulnerable to dryness and irritation.

Moisturize Regularly

Regular moisturizing is essential during winter to replenish natural oils and keep the skin hydrated. Choose fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers, and opt for ointments and creams for more moisturization. Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter help replenish natural oils.

Apply moisturizer to slightly wet skin immediately after bathing and reapply daily as needed.

Protect Your Skin

Bundle up when venturing outside in winter. Wear gloves, scarves, and hats to protect your hands, face, and scalp from the cold, wind, and harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to exposed skin.

Stay Hydrated with a Healthy Winter Diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for hydrated and radiant skin. Drinking at least eight glasses of water per day prevents itchy, dry skin.

Fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines contribute to maintaining skin health and preventing premature aging.

Dry skin during winter is a common concern, but with proper care and attention, it can be easily managed. Follow these tips consistently to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and protected throughout the colder months. If you have questions or concerns about your dry skin, contact AFC Urgent Care Gastonia today for help. Enjoy the winter season without worrying about flaky, dry skin.