Sharp air, cold weather and dry air indoors are a combination that leaves the skin in no ideal condition during the winter. What we can do is to recognize the signal alarms that the skin gives us and provide it with additional protection and care, and this period is exactly when it needs it.
Factors to which the skin is exposed
Skin care during the winter requires a little extra time and effort because the conditions are quite extreme for our sensitive protective barrier. The skin becomes exposed to elements such as cold air, wind, and the reflection of the sun’s rays from the snow. Low humidity is also common, which further reduces skin hydration. The skin is exposed to all those factors when going outside, while problems due to the influence of dry heat are expected you indoors.
Manifestations that occur on the skin
The period we are currently in is known not only for causing new problems, but also for the manifestation of inflammatory processes in those who already have a certain problem (people with rosacea).
Here are some of the most common manifestations that occur:
- Rash
One of the most common skin problems during the snow season is „winter rash“. Those who develop this skin condition feel dry itching, redness appears, the skin usually peels on the hands and arms, and when the skin starts to crack, it can become quite painful.
#skintips: Keep your hands covered all the time you’re out. Use a good moisturizer without odor and use it often.
- Pigment changes
As the summer glow disappears in the winter months, the pigment changes become more noticeable on your skin, mainly on the face, chest and hands. Although they do not necessarily cause problems, most people want to eliminate them.
#skintips: Get back to healthier blemish-free skin with the right type of treatment for your skin, e.g. microneedling.
- Burns
Many people forget that even though the temperature drops below zero, the sun’s UV rays still remain high. During bright, sunny, winter days, when you go for a walk, most people do not apply adequate UV protection for their skin. Sunburns are more common on the face, chest and neck in winter because people do not realize that the sun’s rays are equally strong even though it is cold outside. Wind burns can also cause redness, pain and dryness and the appearance of blemishes.
#skintips: Be sure to apply a SPF-containing moisturizer on your face
- Redness
#skintips: Use a moisturizer in your daily care routine
- Scalp problems
The problem with dryness and further peeling can also be manifested on the scalp. This leads to unpleasant itching and peeling.
#skintips: Visit the #HairTesting center to get a recommendation of adequate individual treatments and products to regulate your scalp problems during the winter
Skin care routine
- Preserve skin hydration and your barrier function
- Increase water intake
- When walking during the day, be sure to use a moisturizer that contains SPF
- As a final treatment, use a moisturizer with added oil
- Do not skip the first and most important step of your skin care, cleansing and toning routine
- Avoid the use of any allergens as the skin is additionally vulnerable during the winter
- For an adequate individual recommendation, visit the #SkinTesting center