Are winters dehydrating your skin indoors, making it prone to dryness, irritation, and even cracking? Dryness is a common winter and much-expected problem that happens because of a few things working together. As the air gets drier and temperatures drop, less moisture in the environment is expected. The weather brings harsh cold winds on many days, making things a tad bit difficult. From breaking down the skin's natural moisture barrier to getting your manes frizzy, there are many pesky problems we all deal with during this time.  It is a tough combo that is a part and parcel of this lovely season otherwise. Check out this small read to combat winter dryness effectively!

Also Read: Winter Dryness Woes: Top 5 Skin Problems And Must-Have Personal Care Essentials – Infographic

What Factors Intensify Winter Dryness And Discomfort?

One of the key problems for loss of moisture inside a house is the indoor heating systems used to maintain warmth. These machines significantly decrease indoor humidity levels, by sucking moisture out of the air, further exacerbating the skin's dehydration. This pulls water from the skin, leaving it feeling tight, dry, and sometimes itchy. Additionally, frequent hot showers or baths, common in winter to warm up, can also worsen dryness. Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, disrupting its ability to retain moisture. Even winter clothing can be a silent culprit. The wool can cause friction and irritation, leading to additional discomfort. Your weakened skin barrier during winter can also be a cause of concern because the dermal layer may get more susceptible to environmental stressors, such as pollution, leading to further dryness.

Also Read: Dry Eyes In Winter: Causes, Symptoms And Effective Tips For Prevention

In short, the combination of cold, dry air, artificial indoor heat, and skincare habits all contribute to the skin's winter dryness specifically in the following areas:

Lips: The harsh winter breeze strips the moisture from lips. Cold temperatures reduce natural oils, leading to chapping, cracking, and dryness of lips.

Feet: Cold weather causes reduced circulation, making feet dry. Dry air also pulls moisture from the skin, leaving feet rough and heels cracked.

Elbows: The skin on elbows is thicker and lacks moisture-producing glands. Cold, dry air worsens this, making elbows prone to dryness and irritation.

Cheeks: Exposed skin, especially on the face, loses moisture quickly. Cold wind and low humidity lead to dry, flaky patches on your cheeks.

Hands: Frequent exposure to cold air and hand-washing strips natural skin oils from hands, leaving the skin dry, cracked, and irritated. Low humidity worsens this condition.

Rejuvenate Your Skin Glow And Radiance, Shop From Our Extensive Range of Beauty and Skincare Products

As we are in the mid-winter season, with some regions experiencing harsh, biting cold that could be affecting your skin terribly, don’t worry as there are always little solutions! Here are five simple ingredients you can find in the spaces of your home that will help soothe and protect your skin throughout the winter months. Dive into the infographic for more details!

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile: Preeti Sharma

Preeti Sharma has a master’s in electronic media and mass communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.

References:

Effects of winter indoor environment on the skin: Unveiling skin condition changes in Korea

Eun Hye Park, Da Jung Jo, Hyo Won Jeon, Seong Jin Na

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10264749/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6301927/