Defeating Dry Skin During the Winter

As far as I’m concerned there are two types of eczema patients:

• The first group loves the warmth of the summer and all the beautiful weather it brings.
• The second group prefers winter and its crisp and cold air.

Keeping skin hydrated in winter

I fall in that second category. Winter is a great time for my skin because most of my outdoor allergies (pollen, mold, etc.) have been eliminated and I no longer have to sweat in the summer heat. On the flip side, a new issue presents itself: dry skin. If you find yourself on “Team Winter,” follow my suggestions below to keep your skin nice and hydrated.

Bathe in lukewarm water

It might be tempting to fight the cold with a hot shower, but my recommendation is to stay away at all costs. We both know that hot water tends to have a drying effect on skin, so combining that with the already harsh cold of winter won't do your body any favors. Instead, opt for lukewarm water (or cold water… depending on how brave you are) whenever possible.

Moisturize

This tip shouldn’t surprise you one bit. Eczema 101 dictates that you should moisturize whenever possible to promote healthier skin. This fact holds particularly true during the winter. Cold (and dry) air will suck any moisture remaining in your skin and leave it as arid as the desert. Moisturize before and after you go outside, and especially after you bathe.

Use a humidifier

Have you ever noticed how dry the air in your home feels during the winter? This occurs because artificially heated air tends to lose some moisture during the heating process. You can fix this issue by using a humidifier. Not only do they offer a whole host of benefits to your health, but they also protect the interior of your home as well.

Drink plenty of water

Drinking plenty of water is one of the easiest ways to keep your skin hydrated. We spend all summer drinking bottle after bottle in the hot outdoor air but tend to forget the importance of this habit after the heat has come and gone. Many health experts agree that you should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. Aim for that target but keep in mind your body may require more depending on your body weight. Sometimes I like to carry around a half-gallon (or gallon) jug of water. Yes, it can be cumbersome, but I don’t have to refill the container or keep track of how many ounces I’ve consumed.

Protect your skin from the elements

Grab your scarf, gloves, and facemask out of storage and use them to protect your skin from the elements any time you decide to go outside. For areas that are not protected by clothing—such as your lips— use lip balm to keep them safe from the dry winter air. It’s also advised to use sunscreen on any other exposed areas of your body. The sun can be just as damaging in the winter as it is during the summer months.

If you have any additional tips for keeping your skin hydrated, please drop a line below!