Tips for caring for winter skin

22 Jul 2016

Dry, flaky skin and dealing with itchiness and skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis are all health issues which many people struggle with at this time of the year.

“Winter is a particularly tricky season for skin as it escalates skin dehydration, sometimes leaving skin feeling dry, dull and flaky. Skin is particularly dehydrated during winter because of cold temperatures, harsh winds, low humidity and the use of artificial heating,” says Penny Soh, brand manager from cosmetics and skincare brand Glamourflage.

Seniors are more prone to these skin problems too, as older skin has less elasticity and moisture and can often feel dry, thin and fragile.

Take care when bathing

While it’s tempting to enjoy long, hot showers regularly, they can actually dry out the skin, so ideally, it’s best to stick to having 10-minute showers using cooler water, especially if you suffer from eczema.

“People with dry skin and eczema should avoid bathing with hot water and soap as it may worsen or cause skin conditions,” adds Dr Michael Freeman, principal dermatologist at the Gold Coast’s Skin Centre. “Choose special soap-free washes over ordinary soap which may dry out the skin. Pat your skin dry using a soft towel and avoid rubbing the eczema.”

Also, moisturise immediately after showering to lock in the moisture left on the skin’s surface.

Moisturise regularly

During winter, you’re exposed to heaters and there’s low humidity in the air, so it’s important that you moisturise often to prevent dry skin.

“Keeping your skin lubricated is important for people suffering from eczema especially if your skin is starting to dry out and crack,” says Dr Freeman. “If the skin is bleeding or weeping, be very careful about your choice of lotions. Choose moisturisers and lotions that are free from synthetic fragrances, colours, alcohol.”

Change your skincare regime

During the colder months, it’s important to change your skincare regime to provide extra hydration and rejuvenation, advises Penny. Look for both a day and night moisturiser, use a use a face mask every fortnight to protect skin cells and a serum or essence that can restore skin structure.

If you are on a budget, look to your pantry for affordable beauty products, such as avocado and cucumber, which can make a refreshing facemask for dry skin when combined.

“People with severe dry skin or eczema-prone skin however, may find relief from the use of Manuka honey creams. Honey has been used in skin care, wound care and healing for centuries,” says Dr Freeman. ”Manuka honey creams with soothing ingredients including aloe vera and chamomile may provide symptomatic relief of eczema especially when there is bacterial on the skin surface.”

Wear sunscreen

“It is still important to wear high SPF in the winter as the sun still can burn even through the clouds and damage your skin without burning. Remember to protect your lips with an SPF lip sunscreen, ideally a liposomal sunscreen,” suggests Dr Freeman.