Cold Weather Skin Issues
Changing seasons bring different skincare concerns, and while you may be used to sunscreen as a summer must, what can you do to keep your skin soft, protected, and healthy in cold weather? Some people are more sensitive, but anyone can experience these common skin issues and side effects of cold and dry winter weather. Read on to find out how to prevent and treat winter skin issues at home, and when to see your dermatologist for advice.
Dry, Chapped Skin
To avoid dry, chapped skin, moisturize daily and bathe with cooler water.
Cold weather means lower humidity, and if the heater is also running at home, this means your skin is losing its moisture fast. Incorporate a moisturizer into your daily routine, to repair your skin’s healthy moisture barrier, which works to keep moisture in and dirt and bacteria out. Also avoid washing your face with hot water, as it strips away the healthy oils that the skin’s natural barrier is made of. Without it, you may experience breakouts, dryness, and painful chapping.
Sunburn
Winter or summer, you should use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from premature aging, and cancer-causing rays. Besides causing lasting damage to the skin, sunburns hurt, and if you are already experiencing chapped and dry skin from the cold, a sunburn will make it worse. Harmful rays reflect off of clouds and snow on the ground, making some cloudy days as bad as sunny ones. We recommend finding a daily moisturizer that doubles as a sunscreen, so it’s easy to stay protected.
Windburn
Harsh and chilly wind chaps and reddens exposed skin, and when combined with sunburn, is an incredibly painful condition. The skin becomes sore, and can even peel. Protect your skin on every level, starting with your moisturizer and sunscreen, and then cover it with a scarf or a hat. Wear sunglasses if your eyes are sensitive, and stay out of direct wind when possible.
Consult Your Dermatologist
If your symptoms do not improve within two weeks, it’s time to make an appointment with your dermatologist. Here at Dermatology Consultants, we bring committed care to the Lynchburg, VA community. Contact us today to receive personal and state of the art treatment.
