As if the freezing cold and generally overcast sky wasn’t enough…
The winter months have the tendency to cause itchy, irritated, and dry skin for both men and women.
SLUCare dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Saint Louis University, Nicole Burkemper, M.D., has several tips for keeping skin healthy this winter season.
Burkemper says taking care of your skin begins with your bathing routine.
In the winter, or anytime you need to treat dry skin, the following tips are recommended when bathing:
- Shut the bathroom door to trap the humidity
- Limit your time in the bath or shower to 5 to 10 minutes
- Use warm rather than hot water
- Wash with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
- Only use cleanser to “strategic areas”-armpits, groin, feet
- Blot your skin gently dry with a towel
- Apply moisturizer immediately after drying your skin
As your day progresses, do not forget that winter sun is still dangerous to your skin. A broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 should be applied to exposed skin before spending lengthy portions of time outside.
If the skin on your face is irritating you, Burkemper recommends looking at the products you use. Ointments and creams, which are oil-based, tend to be more moisturizing and less irritating than lotions, which are water-based.
It is important to maintain the oils on your face and avoid moisturizers that strip them such as harsh peels, masks, alcohol-based toners or astringents.
“A moisturizer that contains ceramides – the main component of the natural skin barrier – can be especially helpful in the dry winter months,” Burkemper said. “Cerave Cream is one that I recommend and use myself.”
Those with dry skin on their hands should apply a moisturizing cream after each hand washing to prevent further irritation.
“Gloves are important, and leather gloves hold in warmth better than cloth or woven gloves,” Burkemper said. “You should also remove wet gloves and socks as soon as possible since the moisture can actually worsen dry, irritated skin.”
If these recommended steps do not help relieve dry skin, you should consider seeing a dermatologist.
“Severe dry skin may need a prescription ointment or cream and dry skin may be a sign of a skin condition that needs medical treatment,” Burkemper said.
