During the fall and winter months, your skin naturally becomes more dry than usual. This is because the air is less humid and the temperatures drop quickly. The skin's outer layer, called stratum corneum, must work harder to retain moisture and keep the skin moist and supple. The layer is made up of skin cells that are held together by proteins and fats. The skin can become flaky and feel tight during these colder months.
The good news is that there are several ways to treat dry skin. One way is to increase your water intake. Drinking plenty of water can help keep the outer layer of your skin supple and moisturized. You can try using an app like Water Reminder to remind you to drink enough water. Another great way to prevent dry skin during the fall and winter months is to limit your use of hot water and heating systems.
You can also take care of the condition at home by taking frequent, lukewarm baths. Avoid alcohol-based soaps and use only lukewarm water. Also, make sure to use a good moisturizer to prevent dryness. If these measures fail to help you, see a doctor. A doctor can recommend the best treatment for your specific condition.
Another way to fight dry skin is to avoid abrasive skin-cleansing tools. Abrasive cleansers can strip your skin's outer layer. To avoid this, use washcloths that are softer than normal. Also, avoid scratching your skin, as this could damage the epidermis and cause more moisture loss. Instead, use a hydrating ointment or balm to calm and protect your skin from further damage
How does winter impact dry skin?
The body must fight off very cold temperatures during winter. It focuses on heating vital organs and the epidermis in order to retain heat. The internal hydration of the skin slows down, which results in lower sebum production. The hydrolipidic film acts as a natural barrier to protect the skin's surface by containing essential components like sebum. The epidermis loses water eventually, which causes skin to become more dry. Although this phenomenon can affect all skin types, it is more evident in dry and naturally dehydrated skin.
Winter's effects on dry skin, which is naturally dehydrated, are more noticeable sooner. The signs of winter are uncomfortable, flaking, and the dreaded dry patches.
The drop in temperature can also have a detrimental, cumulative effect that has a variety of consequences. The air becomes dryer, the epidermis has greater difficulty maintaining its natural hydration levels, which triggers a vicious cycle, and the skin dries even more. This phenomenon is known as Transepidermal Water Loss or TEWL by dermatologists.
Winter, dry skin... and heat!
Winter drys out the skin. However, this can be caused by temperature fluctuations as well as cold weather. The skin's protective hydrolipidic layer is affected by indoor temperatures that are warmer than outdoor temperatures. Our blood vessels expand and contract in response to temperature fluctuations. They can become fragile and redden as a result.Even though it is cold outside, turning up the heat may not be a good idea to prevent your home from becoming too hot. This warning sign is red cheeks and the feeling of skin "overheating"
