fbpx
Your Guide To Doctors, Health Information, and Better Health!
Your Health Magazine Logo
The following article was published in Your Health Magazine. Our mission is to empower people to live healthier.
Katina Miles, MD
The Winter Itch
Skin Oasis Dermatology
. https://www.skinoasisderm.com/

The Winter Itch

The winter months are harsh on the skin. Frigid temperatures and indoor heat work together to dehydrate the skin resulting in the winter itch. The skin becomes dry, red, inflamed, and scaly. There are multiple steps to help combat the itch. Short lukewarm showers using a moisturizing soap or cleanser that will not strip the skin is imperative. Over the counter examples include Cetaphil, Cerave, Dove, Aveeno, and Neutrogena. After the shower, towel off and immediately apply a moisturizer. During this crucial time, skin moisturizers are better able to penetrate and seal the skin barrier. Hydrated skin is more tolerant of the harsh temperatures. Thick creams with ceramides and petroleum based ointments provide more protection to the skin. It is important to moisturize the skin on a daily basis to avoid skin dryness, itching, and eczema formation.

When out in the elements, additional protection such as gloves, hats, and scarves serve as a barrier. The sun's rays are still dangerous even in the winter months. Regardless of the season, daily sunscreen application is mandatory. Our face, ears, neck, and hands are exposed daily to the sun. Cumulative sun exposure damages the skin resulting in premature aging, skin discoloration, textural changes, precancerous lesions, and even skin cancer. In addition to sunscreen, the face requires a pH balanced cleanser and antioxidant serums that nurture the skin and provide added protection.

Special considerations are needed for the hands and lips. Hands tend to become dry, inflamed, and painful in the winter months. Special care such as wearing protective gloves are essential to protect the hands when washing dishes or using other cleaning products. After each hand wash, a moisturizing hand cream such as Vanicream or Neutrogena Norwegian help to reduce the formation of debilitating hand eczema. Chapped lips can be avoided with adequate hydration and using a lip balm. Inflamed lips are more prone to developing cold sores.
Other helpful tips include getting adequate rest and exercise, staying hydrated with water or herbal teas, and avoidance of clothes and materials that cause skin irritation. When staying indoors, humidifiers help to maintain indoor moisture levels. By implementing these tips, healthy resilient skin is possible.

www.yourhealthmagazine.net
MD (301) 805-6805 | VA (703) 288-3130