Winter Skincare Solutions

Winter Weather Skin Conditions
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Amy Forman Taub, MD, FAAD

As winter approaches Chicago the weather can be very difficult on our skin. There are many skin conditions that are affected by the dry air of the winter months. Cold weather, lack of humidity, and use of fabrics such as wool can all cause irritation to the skin. Eczema or atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and xerosis or dry skin are all aggravated by the winter weathers.

Eczema or atopic dermatitis can flare up, causing the skin to become itchy, dry, and even crack. To help prevent eczema flares during the winter, be sure to use mild and moisturizing soaps, use a thicker moisturizing cream after bathing, and avoid known triggers. A humidifier and keeping your home at a comfortable, but not overly warm, temperature can also be helpful.

With reduced exposure to ultra violet light in the winter, psoriasis often flares. Light therapy, such as Xtrac can help clear up the patches and scaly skin of psoriasis when natural ultra violet light is not possible. It is important to be aggressive about moisturizing immediately after luke warm showers and applying your medications as needed to affected areas.

Xerotic or dry skin is also exasperated in the dry cold months. Minimize your bathing times, using luke warm water and moisturize not only after bathing, but several times a day to help relieve the affects of dry skin. When moisturizing use a thicker moisturizer such as Vanicream ($21.00). Try to avoid aggravating materials such as wool.

Solutions for Healthy Winter Skin

For all skin types, not just those with eczema, psoriasis, or xerosis it is important to follow the following steps to keep your skin healthy through the winter months.

  1. Limit your time in the shower and try to use luke warm water. Hot showers aggravate the skin.
  2. Use moisturizing soaps and bathing gels such as La Roche Posay Lipikar Bar ($10.50) or or Avene Cleanser for Intolerant Skin ($22).
  3. Immediately after bathing, dab yourself dry and apply moisturizer like the skinfo® Vital Tea Body Balm ($44).
  4. Humidify your home and/or bedroom.

*All products are available at skinfo® and skinfo.com