From devonlive.com
Flaky, dry skin is common in winter, but a dermatology expert has shared her top tips to protect our skin
As the winter chill continues, some of us are thinking about how we can get the most out of our skincare routine - especially those who suffer from dry skin.
Paula Oliver, a dermatology nurse consultant, has provided expert commentary on why our skin tends to become dry and flaky during the colder months.
She also advises on when we should start adapting our skincare routine. She said: "As temperatures drop, our skin often struggles with increased dryness and flakiness as the cold winter air holds far less moisture than warmer air.
"This, combined with indoor central heating, can strip hydration from the skin. As a result, the skin's natural moisture barrier weakens leading to dry, irritated, flaky skin - prone to flare-ups of conditions like eczema and psoriasis."
She added: "It's important to start adapting your skincare routine as soon as you feel the weather starting to get colder - ideally in early autumn. This allows your skin time to adjust before the harsher winter weather arrives."
How should we adapt our skin care?
Paula said: "It's essential to use products that not only hydrate but also help to soothe and protect the skin. Moisturising regularly and switching to a richer emollient can help lock in moisture and strengthen the skin's natural barrier, and it's important to reapply throughout the day as needed to keep your skin feeling soft and protected.
"I'd also recommend applying an emollient immediately after a bath or shower to trap moisture in. Try to avoid long, hot showers - lukewarm water is best to prevent the skin from being stripped of its natural oils.
"Indoor heating can also take a toll on your skin by drying out the air, so using a humidifier is a great way to add moisture back into your environment and help your skin stay hydrated.
"When you're heading outdoors, make sure to wear gloves and scarves to shield the skin from the harsh winter wind, but stick to soft, breathable fabrics like cotton wherever possible.
"Rough materials, like wool, can easily rub against the skin, causing increased irritation - exacerbating conditions like eczema. Layering cotton underneath these harsher fabrics can also protect your skin while helping you to stay warm."
When is dry skin a warning sign of something more worrying than just winter skin?
"Dry skin is common in winter, but if you're noticing persistent redness, itching, flakiness, cracking, or soreness that doesn't improve or ease with the right regular care, it may be a sign of an underlying condition such as eczema or psoriasis," Paula explained.
"In these cases, it's important to seek advice from a healthcare professional to get the right treatment and prevent further irritation."
What products are available?
For those looking for an emollient option, the EPIMAX® range from Aspire Pharma is available for anyone with eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin, to buy over the counter and online without prescription.
Priced from just £3.99 for a 100g tube (or 125g tub for EPIMAX® Ointment) they are perfect for those looking for a small emollient to take with them on the go.
The EPIMAX® range is also available in 500g tottles (top-down bottle) and tubs, for a more substantial size to sit in the bathroom cabinet. All products are free from: SLS, gluten, and perfumes.
Cetraben is also created with a special blend of ingredients to help manage dry and eczema-prone skin. It locks in moisture to help protect against irritants and water loss. It is unscented and contains glycerin. It is available in a 475ml bottle on Amazon for £12.08.
Another brand marketed towards dry and sensitive skin is the Aveeno daily moisturising cream, which is fragrance free. A 400ml pot is available on Amazon for £8.95.
https://www.devonlive.com/whats-on/shopping/dermatology-nurse-says-avoid-long-10770519
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