How to cope with dry skin in winter?

How to Keep Your Skin Moisturized, Not Peeling or Itchy When the Weather Gets Cold

When winter arrives, the temperature and humidity in the air decrease, causing the skin to lose moisture easily. Many people experience peeling, dryness, tightness, itching, or increased irritation, especially those with sensitive skin, young children, the elderly, or those with underlying skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis (Atopic Dermatitis). Today, Dr. Praneet Satchajareonpong, Dermatology Specialist, Phyathai 2 Hospital will recommend proper skin care to help reduce discomfort and prevent complications.

Why is “Dry Skin” Common in Winter?

• Low humidity causes the skin to lose water faster
• Cold air causes blood vessels to constrict, resulting in less nutrients reaching the skin
• Strong winds increase evaporation of water from the skin
• Taking very hot showers, which many do during cold weather, makes the skin drier
• Using cleansing products with irritating ingredients, such as high pH soaps, causes the skin to lose its protective barrier

Common Symptoms of Dry Skin in Winter

• Peeling dry skin with visible flakes
• Tight or stinging skin when exposed to cold air
• Itchy skin, especially on the face, arms, and legs
• Cracked skin, sometimes bleeding
• Makeup does not adhere well, uneven skin texture
• Some may develop allergic rashes or skin inflammation

How to Keep Skin Moisturized During Cold Weather

Choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin. Select products containing ingredients that help retain moisture, such as

• Ceramide – strengthens the skin’s protective barrier
• Hyaluronic Acid – hydrates the skin
• Glycerin / Urea – helps draw water into the skin
• Shea Butter / Squalane – coats the skin to reduce water loss

Apply more frequently during winter, especially immediately after bathing

1. Avoid very hot showers. Excessively hot water washes away natural oils, making the skin drier. Use lukewarm water and shorten shower time.
2. Use gentle soap or facial foam. Avoid soaps with excessive foam or fragrance. Choose products with pH 5.5–6.5 to avoid damaging the skin’s protective barrier.
3. Increase humidity in the air. If you stay in an air-conditioned room all day, the air becomes drier. Use a humidifier to help maintain moisture in the air.
4. Drink enough water. Although cold weather reduces thirst, the body still needs water to maintain skin elasticity. Drink 6–8 glasses of water daily or more depending on activity.
5. Apply sunscreen even in winter. UV rays can damage the skin year-round. Choose sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect against sun-induced dryness.
6. Choose non-irritating clothing. Avoid wool or rough fabrics that cause itching. Choose soft or cotton fabrics and wash clothes with gentle detergent.

Signs You Should See a Dermatologist. Although general dry skin can be managed at home, see a doctor if you have the following symptoms:

1. Cracked skin with wounds, bleeding, or oozing
2. Red rash, severe itching, or suspected infection
3. Symptoms uncontrolled despite initial care
4. Have underlying skin diseases such as Atopic Dermatitis, Psoriasis with flare-ups during winter

Dermatologists may prescribe mild steroid creams, skin healing ointments, or recommend specific products to help properly restore the skin.

Dry skin in winter can be prevented by increasing skin moisture, choosing appropriate products, drinking enough water, and avoiding factors that cause moisture loss. If symptoms are severe or chronic, consult a doctor for proper care.