Traveling to colder countries for the -ber months? Looking forward to some much-needed break from the constant heat and humidity? You and your group step out of the airport and into the crisp cool air! It’s refreshing! It’s amazing! It’s…itchy? 

Many people don’t realize that cold weather can be just as harsh on the skin as the summer sun. The chilly dry air outside may feel good, but it does have some not-so-good effects on the skin. 

Skin needs a certain level of moisture to keep it fresh and flexible. Dry air draws away this moisture, leaving your skin dehydrated and dull. This makes your skin more vulnerable to cracks and breaks. Without proper care, these cracks on the skin can lead to redness, inflammation and even wounds. But the good news? You can prevent all of that with a few simple changes to your daily routine.

Why Your Skin Gets Dry in Cold Weather

• Cold outdoor air has low humidity, which draws moisture from the skin.
  
• Indoor heat further reduces air moisture, making it harder for your skin to stay hydrated.
  
• Hot showers and harsh cleansers strip away natural oils that protect your skin’s barrier.
  
• Exposed areas like hands and face are more vulnerable to dryness from cold and wind.

Daily Routine: How to Protect Your Skin

1. Moisturize Right After Washing

Apply moisturizer immediately after washing your face or body to lock in moisture. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and urea. Avoid products with strong fragrance or alcohol, which can irritate dry winter skin.

2. Use Sunscreen, Even in Cold Weather

Even when it’s cloudy or cold, UV rays can damage your skin and weaken its moisture barrier. Use at least SPF 50 daily.

3. Take Shorter, Lukewarm Showers

Hot showers feel great but remove essential oils from the skin. Keep showers to 5–10 minutes and use lukewarm water.

4. Use a Humidifier Indoors

Adding moisture to indoor air can make a big difference. Set your humidifier to around 30–50% humidity.

5. Wear Protective Clothing

Wear appropriate protective clothing and use dishwashing gloves when cleaning to prevent dryness and cracking. Scarves can help protect your face and neck from the wind.

6. Be Gentle on Your Skin

Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers and pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it. Avoid harsh exfoliants, your skin barrier is more delicate in the cold.

7. Choose Soft Fabrics and Gentle Detergents

Wool and synthetic fabrics can irritate dry skin. Choose soft cotton layers and fragrance-free detergents.

Weekly or Seasonal Habits

• Reassess your skincare: switch to richer creams or ointments as the weather cools.
  
• Reduce the use of strong actives like retinol or acids if your skin feels tight or sensitive.
  
• Stay hydrated and eat foods rich in omega-3 and antioxidants to support skin health.

Extra Care for Different Areas

• Hands and Feet: Use thick creams or oils and wear gloves or socks overnight for better absorption.
  
• Lips: Apply lip balm regularly and avoid licking your lips, it worsens dryness.
  
• Face: Never skip sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
  
• Body: Moisturize immediately after showering while your skin is still slightly damp.

When to See a Dermatologist

If your skin remains cracked, itchy, or inflamed despite these tips, see a dermatologist. Persistent dryness could be a sign of eczema, psoriasis, or another condition.

Final Thoughts

Cold weather doesn’t have to mean dry, itchy skin. With the right care, hydrating products, gentle cleansing, and protection, you can keep your skin soft, smooth, and comfortable.

References

Cleveland Clinic. (2023, November 28). Tips to combat dry skin in winter. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tips-to-combat-dry-skin-in-winter

Healthline. (2023, December 11). How to prevent and treat dry skin in winter. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/winter-dry-skin

NewYork-Presbyterian. (n.d.). 10 tips for protecting your skin in the cold weather. NewYork-Presbyterian. https://www.nyp.org/patients-and-visitors/advances-consumers/issues/10-tips-for-protecting-your-skin-in-the-cold-weather

The Dermatology Group. (n.d.). How to protect your skin from dryness during cooler weather. The Dermatology Group. https://dermgroup.org/how-to-protect-your-skin-from-dryness-during-cooler-weather/

Today. (2023, November 30). Winter skin care tips: How to protect your skin in cold weather. Today. https://www.today.com/health/skin-beauty/winter-skin-care-tips-rcna67038