What's the Best Winter Skincare Routine?
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The cold, dry air of winter can be particularly harsh on your skin, making it feel tight, itchy and flaky. While family gatherings and hot cocoa are winter essentials, a solid winter skincare plan is just as important to combat the effects of the chilly weather. With a few adjustments to your daily habits, you can keep your skin hydrated and healthy all season long.
We speak to Madeline Mahoney, D.O., a board-certified family medicine physician and primary care doctor at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Southwest, to learn more.
Why winter is so rough on your skin
The basics: The combination of low humidity outdoors and dry indoor heating systems strips your skin of its natural moisture barrier during the winter months. This process can lead to dry skin characterized by cracking, flaking and irritation. Without a proper skincare routine, your skin can become more sensitive and prone to damage.
- Cold air contains less moisture than warm air, which draws hydration away from your skin.
- Indoor heating further reduces the humidity in the air, compounding the drying effect.
- Windy conditions can also strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness.
Tips for your winter skincare routine
What to do: To combat the harsh effects of winter, it is essential to adapt your skincare routine to provide extra moisture and protection. Focusing on gentle products and consistent hydration can make a significant difference.
- Protect your skin’s naturally produced moisture by avoiding harsh practices.
- Moisturize regularly to replenish lost hydration and support the skin barrier.
- Select the products you use on your face carefully to prevent irritation.
- Shield your skin from sources of stress like the sun and wind.
- Treat underlying conditions that may contribute to dry skin.
Protect your skin’s naturally produced moisture by being gentle and avoiding things that strip away its natural oils. Your skin’s ability to retain moisture is crucial, especially when environmental factors are working against it.
- Avoid scrubbing your skin too hard, which can remove its protective layer.
- You should not use hot water when washing your face or showering, as it can be very drying.
- Stay away from products that dry out the skin, such as those containing astringents.
Ask the doctor: “Retinol does not need to be avoided in the winter,” Mahoney adds, “as concerns about seasonal exacerbation of skin dryness due to retinol have not been substantiated in medical literature.
While retinol can cause transient dryness and irritation, these effects are mild, dose-dependent and typically resolve with continued use regardless of season. In fact, retinol maintains or even enhances skin barrier function rather than compromising it.”
Moisturize regularly to combat the drying effects of cold air and indoor heating. Applying moisturizer multiple times a day is essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier and preventing dry skin.
- Apply moisturizer within five minutes of washing your face to lock in hydration.
- Choose a moisturizer with ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid to strengthen the skin barrier.
- You can use a petroleum jelly-based product on severe dry spots for intensive overnight treatment.
Select the products you use on your face carefully because your skin will be much more sensitive when it’s dry. Many products, including makeup and shampoo, can contribute to dryness, so it is important to check their ingredients.
- You should use products specifically designed for the face that are fragrance-free.
- Find a balance between anti-aging products and moisturizing ones to prevent excessive dryness.
- Consider products with hyaluronic acid to counteract the drying effects of winter.
Shield your skin from sources of stress like sun exposure and harsh weather. Protecting your skin from environmental damage is a key part of any effective skincare routine year-round.
- Wear sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, to protect against UV rays.
- Cover your skin with scarves and hats to shield it from the cold wind.
- Avoid tanning beds as they can cause significant skin damage and dryness.
Treat underlying conditions that could be the root cause of your dry skin. If simple skincare tips don’t resolve the issue, a medical condition might be contributing to the problem.
- Health conditions like thyroid disease, diabetes or autoimmune diseases can cause dry skin.
- Skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis or psoriasis often lead to persistent dryness.
- If your dry skin is accompanied by other symptoms like joint pain, you should consult a doctor.
When are skin problems a sign of something serious?
What to know: While most cases of dry skin can be managed at home, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate a more serious issue. If your skin does not improve with regular moisturizing or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is best to seek professional medical advice.
- Skin that appears wet, red and irritated might be a sign of seborrheic dermatitis.
- If itchiness interferes with your daily activities or sleep quality, you should see a health care provider.
- Persistent pink and scaly patches could be a sign of precancerous cells and should be evaluated.
An older individual’s skin is naturally drier and may not respond as quickly to treatments. Skincare for those over 50 might need a different approach. People of advanced age should always consider a professional examination. A primary care doctor can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments or get you connected with a dermatologist.
Find a doctor at INTEGRIS Health now
What’s next: Your skin’s health is an important part of your overall well-being. If you are struggling with persistent dry skin or have concerns about your winter skincare routine, our team at INTEGRIS Health is here to help. Find a doctor now.
