When the temperature drops, lots of people find their skin starts to feel tight, rough or itchy. Dry outdoor air, biting winds and warm indoor heating all draw water out of the skin. Hands, lips and legs are usually hit first. Thankfully, a few easy tweaks to your everyday habits can help your skin stay much more comfortable until the warmer months arrive.
Change the Way You Shower
A steaming shower is tempting on a frosty morning, yet very hot water washes away the natural oils that guard your skin. Try these small swaps instead:
- Turn the temperature down to warm, not hot.
- Keep baths and showers on the short side.
- Use a mild cleanser without fragrance in place of strong soaps.
- Pat yourself dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing hard.
Moisturise When It Counts Most
Apply moisturiser within a few minutes of stepping out of the bath or shower, while your skin is still a little damp, so it can seal in water. In the colder months, many people get better results from thick creams or ointments than from thin lotions. Keep a small hand cream beside the sink and in your bag, and use it each time you wash your hands. A basic lip balm helps stop lips from cracking.
Guard Your Skin Inside and Outside
Icy wind can be tough on bare skin. Gloves, scarves and hats create a shield that helps hold moisture in. The sun still matters in winter as well, especially around snow, which bounces sunlight back up at you. On bright days, sunscreen on the face and hands is still a good idea.
At home, a humidifier can put some moisture back into dry air, particularly in the bedroom overnight. Soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton often feel kinder against the skin than wool, which some people find itchy.
Care for Your Skin From Within
In chilly weather it is easy to drink less water, but staying well hydrated supports your general health. A varied diet with foods that contain healthy fats, like nuts, seeds and oily fish, is part of a balanced lifestyle that also helps your skin.
See a dermatologist if your dry skin becomes very itchy, cracked, red or sore, or does not get better with regular moisturising, as a skin condition could be involved. The Mayo Clinic overview of dry skin explains common causes. At WhatsOnTech we believe winter skin can stay soft with steady, gentle care, and you can read more in our dermatology guides.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice.
