From healthcare.utah.edu
When we think about skin care, summer often comes to mind—sunshine, vacations, and plenty of selfies. But summer isn’t the best time to treat skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and psoriasis. Winter is actually the ideal time to start.
According to Robert Sylvester, DNP, who specialises in paediatric dermatology at University of Utah Health, winter offers unique advantages for skin health, especially for treatments involving lasers, retinoids, and moisturizing regimens.
Here’s why:
1. Winter Air Increases Dryness
Cold, dry air naturally pulls moisture from the skin, making existing conditions like eczema and psoriasis more noticeable. While that might sound like a drawback, it makes issues easier to treat effectively.
2. Gentler Sunlight Means Safer Recovery
Treatments that involve lasers or retinoids leave skin extra sensitive to UV light for a period of time. Winter’s weaker sunlight reduces that risk, which means easier recovery and opens the door to more treatment options.
3. More Time Indoors = Better Care
Cold weather often keeps us inside, which creates an excellent opportunity to take care of your skin post-treatment. This allows you to consistently apply proper skin care products and adhere to the treatment plan set by you and your dermatologist.
“Winter doesn’t have to be a time to hide your skin—it can be a time to heal,” Sylvester says. “Take this time to focus on proper moisturization, avoid hot water, and give your skin a little extra TLC through skin care treatments.”
Tips for Healthy Winter Skin
- Choose thick creams. Switch from water- or alcohol-based lotions to thick creams. The greasier, the better!
- Moisturize frequently. Apply creams at least twice a day, especially after cleansing, to hold in moisture.
- Use a humidifier. Add moisture to the air in your home to prevent excessive dryness.
- Don’t skip sunscreen. UV rays are weaker in the winter but not absent! Sunscreen is especially important in high altitudes or when UV light is reflected off snow or water, which increases your chance of UV damage.
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