Skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema tend to worsen during the winter season because of the dry air. A dermatologist tells us some of the most common skin issues during winters and how to fix them.
Key Highlights
- Opt for milder soaps or body washes that are not very rough on the skin
- Eat foods that promote immunity building and help replace lost moisture in the skin
- A product with a broad spectrum UVA and UVB radiation will help protect the skin during long hours out in the sun during winter
Photo Credit: Getty Images
New Delhi: People who are already prone to developing dryness in some parts of the body such as the palms, feet, ankle, neck, forearms, etc. might observe more dryness in these areas during the winter season. Conversely, people with oily skin may find that the dry weather exacerbates the oiliness. Individuals who are already suffering from a skin-related disorder such as psoriasis, eczema, find it especially difficult to manage their condition during the cold winter season. It is important to identify your skin type and cope with it accordingly.
People with oily skin may feel the need to repeatedly wash their face, leaving them with dry, tight skin after washing and with very oily skin again a few hours later. Using a gentle, low pH face wash will help remove extra oil without excessively stripping the skin of its natural oils.
People with oily skin may feel the need to repeatedly wash their face, leaving them with dry, tight skin after washing and with very oily skin again a few hours later. Using a gentle, low pH face wash will help remove extra oil without excessively stripping the skin of its natural oils.
How to deal with common winter skin problems
As the temperatures and humidity levels drop, people experience an increase in skin-related issues, particularly dryness in the skin. In this article, Dr Shireen Furtado, Consultant - Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery, Aster CMI Hospital, tells us some of the most common skin issues during winters and how to deal with them:Sun damage
Often people assume that the sun’s rays will not affect them during the winter season, however, this is not true. Since we don’t feel the heat of the sun’s rays during winters, even those who regularly apply sunscreen tend to forget this step in their routines during the winters. UVA radiation and narrowband UVB radiation can pass through even during winter and cloudy days. A product with a broad spectrum UVA and UVB radiation will help protect the skin during long hours out in the sun during winter.
Flare-ups
Skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema or dermatitis tend to worsen during the winter season because of the dry air. Try to maintain a consistent temperature within the body by wearing warm clothes outside and invest in a humidifier to help increase the moisture content in the air. Use dermatologist-approved skincare products that are light for cleansing the skin and non-comedogenic moisturisers for the problem areas.
Dandruff-related itchiness
It is common to see an increase in dandruff during the colder season. To manage this, use products that have zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole and selenium sulfide. Identify first whether the scaly patches on your scalp are actually dandruff or dry skin because dry skin can easily be treated by using nourishing oils like ghee or coconut oil with a bit of tea tree oil which will help moisturise the scalp.
Winter skincare tips
Eat immune-building foods: Eat foods that promote immunity building and help replace lost moisture in the skin - such as carrots, citrus fruits, ginger, broccoli, leafy greens like spinach. Also include ghee, nuts, fish, seeds, probiotics like curd in your diet to help strengthen your immune system. These foods are also beneficial to the skin - your good health will reflect with clear and glowing skin.Don’t forget to hydrate: ‘Winter dehydration’ happens because people drink less water during the winters. The urge to drink occurs more often during the summer season and dehydration is usually associated with the hotter seasons. If the skin appears tired (instead of firm), leaves behind white marks upon scratching, wrinkles easily, these are signs of dehydration. Moisturising with quality products/natural items like curd, ghee, etc. while simultaneously consuming moisture-rich foods and drinking ample amounts of water will keep the skin firm and well-hydrated.
Avoid hot showers and harsh soaps: Long hot showers during the winter season are incredibly comforting but are bad for the skin, leading to dryness. Similarly, some soaps are harsher than others and can strip the skin of essential oils and nutrients. Opt for milder soaps or body washes that are not very rough on the skin. Soaps enriched with moisturising properties are even better for the winter season.
Face oils: Face oils such as rosehip oil, argan oil, moringa oil, etc, are lighter and easily absorbed during this time. Also, opt for water-based moisturisers over oil-based moisturisers to help your skin absorb it better. On the other hand, people with dry skin can use oilier moisturisers such as shea butter, coconut oil, malai to replenish the skin of lost nutrients.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
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